Ephesians 4:16

Jesus Christ is both the One into whom we grow (Ephesians 4:15) and the One out of whom we grow as a whole church. The whole body grows as each part carries out its proper function. All parts of the body alluded to in this verse are Christians, except the Head, Jesus Christ. [Note: See Ronald Y. K. Fung, "The Nature of the Ministry according to Paul," Evangelical Quarterly 54 (1982):139-44.]

The church then is a diverse body composed of many different people who must give attention to preserving their unity (Ephesians 4:7-16). Paul’s emphasis was on body growth more than on individual growth in this passage. Each believer contributes to body growth as he or she exercises his or her particular gifts (abilities) in the service of Christ.