The image of the church in this passage is a body with many parts, each functioning as a whole. This is a picture of Christian community in a local congregation. By the mercy of God, which saves us from our sins, we who are many are now gathered together in oneness in Christ. We are each gifted to make some contribution to the health of the congregation. When we function this way, the church is built up and the power of the gospel is made more evident in the world. Ultimately, the community made by mercy glorifies God.

The image of the church in this passage is a body with many parts, each functioning as a whole. This is a picture of Christian community in a local congregation. By the mercy of God, which saves us from our sins, we who are many are now gathered together in oneness in Christ. We are each gifted to make some contribution to the health of the congregation. When we function this way, the church is built up and the power of the gospel is made more evident in the world. Ultimately, the community made by mercy glorifies God.