“Edification”
[By Peter Russom]

“As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving” – Colossians 2:6-7 (NKJV).

As we focus this year on the foundations of our faith as Christians, we can see that there are many essential concepts developed throughout the scriptures. Let’s explore the biblical meaning and application of “edification.” By definition, edification is “a building up”, “the act of building, suggesting spiritual progress as the result of patient labor.” We all aim to develop the character and conduct we see in Jesus. The encouragement and edification we receive from our brethren supports striving for that goal. In turn, being grounded and edified in Him advances individual growth, congregational unity, and our worship.

“Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification” – Romans 15:2 (NKJV).

We are blessed to have access to the revealed word of God and are edified in studying and understanding the scriptures. We learn the importance of being built up and grounded in our faith as we live each day for Jesus. In reading related passages we also learn that there are actions and characteristics which may hinder our being edified. Our relationships with brethren are extremely important and, therefore, we all must be mindful of the content and tenor of our communication.

“Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers” – Ephesians 4:29 (NKJV).

Surely, we understand the import of Jesus’ teaching that we are to love one another. With that in mind, it is clear from corresponding scriptures that how and what we communicate can impact our sisters and brothers in Christ. Our intentions do matter and yet, how our words are received is also a significant matter. Effective preaching, teaching, and sharing our understanding of God’s Word requires that we continually encourage and edify each other. This mindset of compassion is a powerful benefit in being equipped to share the gospel with the lost.

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” – Ephesians 4:32 (NKJV).

In the closing portion of his second letter to the brethren in Corinth, the apostle Paul links his manner and purpose to edify those there with direction for them to mature and be like-minded. These inspired words give us motivation today to recognize and apply the importance of edification.

“Therefore, I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the authority which the Lord has given me for edification and not for destruction. Finally brethren, farewell. Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love be peace will be with you” – 2 Corinthians 13:10-11 (NKJV).