Ephesians 2:21

"… in whom [ie Christ] the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord."

Christ is the cornerstone (v.20) of the temple or household that is being built. It is in him that this household is held together.

Paul uses this word “in” twice to refer to our relationship with Christ. Given the building illustration, this seems odd. A structure rests on the cornerstone, which in some ways shapes it and directs it, but the structure is never “in” the cornerstone.

Paul is trying to remind us that, despite the metaphor of the church that he is using here, our connection with Christ is relational. In a building not every brick rests directly on the cornerstone. Indeed a particular brick maybe some distance from the cornerstone. The church, however, is an organic product. it is “in Christ”, and every member of the church also is “in Christ.” This is relational language not structural language.

Christ is not just the foundation stone, he is the mortar that holds the structure together. He is not in the corner of the building. He is the glue that holds the building together.

as individuals come to know Jesus and seek to serve him, They will also love their fellow Christians. ”A new commandment I give you that you love one another” (John 13:34). Love for Jesus translates into love for one another. So the church is built on Jesus’ love.

the church grows as it grows in Christ. if we love him, and relate to him, and obey him, the world will know that we are his followers. They, or at least some of them, will be attracted to the Good News and will want to be a part of this household.

the growth happens regardless of any church growth or evangelism programs. iI happens because the church is ”in Christ.” it is our relationship with Jesus that gives the power to make disciples, not any human plan. This is not to deny that believers need training and encouragement in evangelism. But real church growth is based in our knowledge of Jesus, not in our activity for him.

here is a mystery. The household grows into a temple. When the church is in Christ what seems small and unremarkable grows into something that is prominent and central.

a Temple is:

• A focal point for worship in the city

• The place where God’s presence is specifically located

• a place dedicated to God for his purpose, that is, holy

• replace for sacrifice

• a place to encounter God

So the household of God, a small unit of believers, grows into something that is visible to all and recognised by all.

when the church remains in Christ, He builds the temple according to his plan and purpose.

the word “grow” suggests this is an ongoing process. Builders know when the project is completed. They look at the plans, maybe consult with the owner, and conclude that it is finished.

this growth into the temple in Christ is not finished. It cannot be, at least on this side of eternity.

there will always be more people to reach. There will always be a need to turn believers into disciples, passive Christians into active co-workers .

and so the church grows and will continue to grow until Jesus returns, and the mission is completed.

key points in this verse:

• God is building a structure on Christ the cornerstone. and on the prophets and apostles.

• we must remain in Christ

• it is Christ who determines what the shape of the church is

• The growth of the church is organic growth

• The growth and the mission of the church continue. It is a work in progress.