JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Relationship-Building Principle comes from Ephesians 4:15.

“Speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”

The pathway to a thriving and growing church comes through the pattern of speaking the truth in love. We spur believers toward a stronger relationship with Jesus and with each other. We also give unbelievers hope that they can be set free from the guilt of their sins, by coming to faith in Christ as Lord and Savior. Jesus serves as the supreme example of upholding the truth while expressing love.

He told the woman caught in adultery, “Neither do I condemn you, go and sin no more.” This is a statement that extends grace while expressing the truth of God’s will.

Speaking the truth in love is a vital relationship-building principle to take to heart in the Year of Connection.