The concept of being "built up in faith" is a recurring theme in the New Testament, emphasizing spiritual growth, maturity, and the strengthening of one's relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This process involves both individual and communal aspects of faith, as believers are encouraged to grow personally while also contributing to the edification of the church body.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the idea of being built up in faith in his epistles. In Colossians 2:6-7 , Paul writes, "Therefore, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him, established in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Here, Paul uses the metaphor of being "rooted" and "built up" to describe the process of spiritual growth, suggesting a foundation in Christ that leads to a strengthened faith.

In Ephesians 4:11-13 , Paul further elaborates on the communal aspect of being built up in faith: "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ." This passage highlights the roles within the church that contribute to the collective edification and unity of believers.

Spiritual Growth and Maturity

Being built up in faith involves a continuous process of spiritual growth and maturity. Hebrews 5:12-14 addresses the need for believers to move beyond elementary teachings and mature in their understanding: "Although by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to reteach you the basic principles of God’s word. You need milk, not solid food! For everyone who lives on milk is still an infant, inexperienced in the message of righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil."

This passage underscores the importance of progressing from spiritual infancy to maturity, where believers are able to discern and apply the deeper truths of the faith.

Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in building up believers in faith. In Jude 1:20-21 , the author exhorts, "But you, beloved, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God as you await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you eternal life." The Holy Spirit empowers and guides believers, facilitating their growth and helping them remain in God's love.

Community and Edification

The New Testament emphasizes the importance of community in the process of being built up in faith. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11 , Paul encourages believers to "encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing." The mutual encouragement and support within the body of Christ are vital for individual and collective spiritual growth.

Additionally, 1 Corinthians 14:12 speaks to the use of spiritual gifts for the edification of the church: "It is the same with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church." The exercise of spiritual gifts is intended to strengthen and unify the church, contributing to the overall building up of the faith community.

Conclusion

The concept of being built up in faith is integral to the Christian life, encompassing personal spiritual growth, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the communal edification of the church. Through these elements, believers are encouraged to grow in their relationship with Christ and contribute to the unity and strength of the body of Christ.