The sharpening of the instrument is accomplished through relationship. It is friction, the touch of the metals, that sharpens the sword. So it is in Christ honoring relationships. Maturity is never found outside of real community. God in His wisdom has designed that such sharpening can take place in the provision of the family and the church. There is no other way outside of real relationship for maturity to occur just as there is no other way for a sword to be sharpened outside of a real relationship with another object. As we consider this, we must realize that the presence of the institution does not magically produce maturity. Merely existing in a family or being a member of a church alone will not bring the needed sharpening. It is accomplished through intentional relationship, relationship that is built on the goal of mutual love and the mutual goal of conformation to the image of Jesus Christ. This principle of discipling is not just a good idea. It is the very command of Christ to His church. How invested are you in the sharpening of your fellow church members?