GROW IN CHRIST
Dearly beloved, Greetings to you in the sweet and matchless name of our Lord Jesus Christ!
Growth is an important aspect of life. Growth is the evidence that we are alive. Nothing or no one gains honor without growth. The Holy Bible insists that we need to grow in Christian life. Apostle Peter instructs us to grow continually in Christ (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18). The Bible exhorts us in Hebrews 6:1,2 that we must grow and progress towards maturity. We should grow in the Lord in every respect (Ephesians 4:15). I would like to share with you four key points concerning Spiritual Growth.
- THE PRIORITY OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH
“Grow” is not just a suggestion rather it is a command in the scriptures. It is God’s will. First of all we need to have a clear understanding of “What is Spiritual Growth?” Spiritual growth is not just age, appearance, academics or other achievements. Paul says it is a transformation that takes place in our heart, traits, attitudes and character. It makes our original nature diminish and vanish and helps the nature of Christ shine in us. (1 Corinthians 3:1-2; 13:11; 14:20). There is much joy when a child is born in a family. But if the child does not grow everyone is sad. In the same way there is nothing more exciting than a person being born into the family of God. Also there is nothing more disappointing than a born-again Christian who does not grow mature in Christian life. Secondly growth needs to be balanced. Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man (Luke 2:52). Likewise our growth in Christ should also be proportionate (Ephesians 4:15)
Areas we need to grow:
- Grow in grace (John 1:16-17)
- Grow in Faith (Luke 17:15; Matt. 15:28)
- Grow in love (Phil. 1:9; 1 Thess.3:12)
- Grow in holiness (Rev. 22:11)
- Grow in the knowledge of God (Phil. 3:7-8, 10; 2 Peter 3:18)
- Grow in Sacrificial Giving (2 Cor. 8:2, 7)
- Grow in the likeness of Jesus (2 Cor. 3:18; Romans 8:29)
Let us grow in all of the above and fulfill the will of God.
- THE PROGRESSION IN SPIRITUAL GROWTH
Growth does not occur in a day. It is a process that comprises levels. Spiritual growth is like the growth of a seed. First a leaf-blade emerges out of the soil then the wheat-head and finally comes the grain ripened (Mark 4:28). In 1 John 2:12-14, Apostle John lists three basic levels of spiritual growth.
- Little Children: The spiritual child realizes that he is child of God and his sins are forgiven and that God is his Father and not much else.
- Young Men: A spiritual young man is one who is strong in the Word and has overcome the wicked one by faith and obedience.
- Fathers: These know God and His Word in an intimate and deeper level, they understand His purposes and consecrate themselves completely to do His will and thus bear fruits.
John who writes about these levels himself grew from the level of a child into a youth and then grew to be a father. We can witness his growth levels in the following scripture passages. John is selfish (Mark 10:35-37). He is angry and intolerant (Luke 9: 52-56). But when he grew in the love and knowledge of Christ his nature completely changed. He loved the church and encouraged the brethren. We read about that in his epistles. He prayed for the Samaritans whom he detested earlier (Acts 8:14-17). He became so humble hearted that he conceals his identity (John 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7; 21:20). A man who was once known as “Son of thunder” is now recognized as “The Apostle of Love”. Let us examine our heart and know our level of spiritual growth.
- THE PREREQUISITES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH
There are 8 rules that promote good health and strength in babies; these can be adapted and applied to a Christian’s spiritual growth.
- Daily Food: Take in the “pure milk of the Word” through study and meditation. (1 Peter 2:2)
- Fresh Air: Pray often or you will faint. Prayer is the oxygen of the soul. (1Thess. 5:17)
- Water: Water symbolizes the Holy Spirit. We must be filled with the Holy Spirit. (John 7:38-39)
- Regular Exercise: Exercise helps the body to keep fit n firm. So also putting into practice what we learn in God’s word keeps our soul fit. (James 1:22)
- Adequate Rest: Rest refreshes the body and so is the soul refreshed when we rely on God at all times in simple faith.
- Clean Surroundings: Unclean surroundings cause health hazards; likewise evil company will weaken us spiritually. (Prov. 1:10-15; Ephesians 5:11)
- Loving Care: Church nurtures the believers as the parents nurture the babies. Hence be a part of the church and benefit from a pastor’s teaching and Christian fellowship (Hebrews 10:25). Don’t just attend. Participate; Worship God; listen to sermons as God’s voice, take notes, apply to life what you have learnt.
- Periodic check-ups: It is essential to examine your spiritual health from time to time. (1 Cor. 11:31)
- THE PURPOSE OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH
The ultimate goal of spiritual growth is to glorify God. Growing in grace is equated to giving glory to God. Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen (2 Peter 3:18). When we grow the Lord is glorified. Beloved, I pray that we be led by the Spirit every day and bear witness to God in words and life and bring glory to God. May the blessings of the Lord be upon you!
