Paul says that we are to speak the truth in love. It is never loving to lie to others, especially when dealing with the great matters of the faith. But that doesn't mean that it is automatically loving to tell the truth. We can say true things in a way that is not loving, without any consideration for God or our neighbor. We have all been guilty of it, times without number. If we speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, we are nothing but a banging gong.
In the latter half of v. 15, and in v. 16, Paul continues the theme of spiritual growth, which he had first introduced in v. 11. We see that growth is a given. The church is alive; therefore it will grow. Growth into what? Into Christ-likeness. We see several means by which Christians grow: 1. By the shepherding of the pastor and the teaching of the Word through the pastor/teacher. 2. By the work of service. 3. By speaking the truth in love 4. By the power of Christ Himself, who is the head of the body.
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