I remember going to visit a town near our home and being surprised to find a Corvette show going on. I was excited to check out all the beautiful cars on display. From older ’Vettes to new ones, those cars were something to behold.

When I think of the church (no, not like a Corvette), I think of it as something of beauty. Sure, it has scratches and dents, and of course it has an ugly side because it’s made of people—but I think the church can be so stunning.

When Saul (Paul) became a follower of Jesus, he was committed to making sure the church was something to behold.

This verse for us today is worth reading a few times. The newly formed church of Jesus was a place of peace and was being built up. I think of a high-rise building being built floor by floor—and before you know it, the beauty is revealed. The people (the church) walked in the fear of God and multiplied.

The building-up of the church wasn’t about slick programs or clever preaching. The hearts of the people were aligned with God, and they were encouraged by the Holy Spirit. They had a deep sense of awe as they walked in step with the Lord, and they made sure God got the glory.