The need for spiritual growth

Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Ephesians 4: 14. NIV

That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; Ephesians 4: 14. KJV


CHARACTERISTICS OF SPIRITUAL CHILDISHNESS



a.     Easily tossed here and there. They are not firm in taking decisions on doctrinal matters. They hardly know what is true. They don’t have convictions

b.     They are easily carried away by the waves of new teachings

c.      They can be easily deceived by false prophets and teachers

d.     They are dull of hearing – lacking interest in the biblical teaching that will establish them in truth

e.     When they ought to be teachers/ leaders/disciplers, they still need to be taught the elementary principles of Christ because the fruits of spiritual growth are missing in their lives

f.       They are unskillful in the word. They have not been trained in the art of bible study, interpretation and application. This makes it hard for them to have a firm grip on biblical truths that will conform them to the image of Christ.

g.      1 Corinthians 3:1 – Presence of strife, envy, divisions, sectarian spirit, parochial and denominational mindset, building personality cults, etc.

h.     1 Corinthians 13:11 – The speaking comes before thorough thinking and having a full understanding of the subject matter. James 3:2.

i.        The above shows he lacks divine understanding of the things of God and so needs to be under governors and tutors that will bring him to maturity. Without this spiritual growth, he cannot enter into the divine agenda for his life.


MOVING ON TO MATURITY



We are encouraged not to remain in spiritual childishness. We must leave the elementary principles of Christ and move on. We must move on to perfection i.e., maturity. God engages the following in growing us;

a.     The ministry of the word of God –Bible Study (Personal and Corporate)

b.     The ministry of the apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. -  The School of Discipleship

c.      The blessedness of fellowship with other believers – The ministry of the local church

d.     Challenges (sufferings) – experiences of life, trials and persecutions, etc. – The university of adversity

e.      Deep and consistent communion with God in prayer. – The school of prayer



SOME INDICES OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH



a.     Love towards God and all men

b.     Manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit

c.      Passion for soul-winning

d.     Consciousness of the Lord’s return

e.     Having spiritual convictions based on the word of God

f.      Humility, faithfulness and accountability

g.     Ability to lay everything down for God and the gospel