Fitly joined. Compare ch. 2:21. Growing up into Him assures vitality flowing from Him into the members of the body, which are closely joined together. It is thus that persons of greatly varying gifts are able to work together.
Compacted. A continuous articulation, one member with the other, assuring solidity and strength. The complex structure grows through contact with the supply of grace from the head.
Effectual working. Gr. energeia, “operative power,” “working.” Our word “energy” is derived from energeia. Every part has its essential function to perform. Every member is a working member.
Every part. The essential idea is that of mutual coherence and common growth through connection with the head (cf. Col. 2:19).
Maketh increase. While the source of supply is the head, each part or member has a work to perform to bring about the increase. It is a twofold increase — growth of the church in numbers and of the individual in the spiritual graces.
Edifying. See on v. 12.