Growth in Christ

 

1. SPIRITUAL INFANCY (NEW BIRTH STAGE)

At this stage, a believer is newly born again and dependent on spiritual nourishment.

• a) This is the stage of new believers in Christ – Just as babies need milk, new Christians need foundational teachings (1 Peter 2:2).
• b) There is a hunger for God but limited understanding – The excitement of salvation is high, but spiritual knowledge is shallow (Hebrews 5:12).
• c) Dependence on spiritual mentors and teachers is necessary – New believers need guidance to avoid spiritual errors (1 Corinthians 3:1-2).
• d) There is vulnerability to false teachings and temptations – The enemy targets spiritual infants to hinder their growth (Ephesians 4:14).
• e) Biblical Example: The Corinthians were still behaving like infants in Christ, needing milk instead of solid food (1 Corinthians 3:1-3).

2. SPIRITUAL CHILDHOOD (GROWING IN KNOWLEDGE AND CHARACTER)

In this stage, believers begin to develop in their faith and relationship with God.

• a) There is growth in understanding but struggles with spiritual discipline – Christians in this stage start learning God’s Word but may still struggle with worldly desires (1 John 2:12-13).
• b) The desire for deeper fellowship with God increases – There is a hunger for prayer and Bible study (Psalm 42:1-2).
• c) There is a need for training in righteousness – Spiritual growth requires discipline and correction (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
• d) The believer begins to develop spiritual gifts and fruit – Character formation and ministry involvement begin (Galatians 5:22-23).
• e) Biblical Example: The disciples of Jesus, though growing, often struggled with faith and understanding (Matthew 8:26).

3. SPIRITUAL ADOLESCENCE (MATURING IN FAITH AND SERVICE)

At this stage, believers begin to take on responsibility and exercise their faith.

• a) There is stability in faith and doctrine – The believer can discern between true and false teachings (Hebrews 5:14).
• b) Active participation in ministry and service begins – There is a growing passion to serve God and others (Romans 12:11).
• c) Trials and challenges come as tests of faith – Spiritual growth is refined through challenges (James 1:2-4).
• d) A deeper level of intimacy with God develops – Prayer, fasting, and studying the Word become a lifestyle (Colossians 2:6-7).
• e) Biblical Example: Timothy grew from a young believer to a strong leader in the faith (1 Timothy 4:12).

4. SPIRITUAL MATURITY (WALKING IN FULLNESS AND LEADING OTHERS)

This stage represents the fullness of Christian growth, where believers lead and disciple others.

• a) There is a deep and unwavering faith in God – Mature believers are steadfast and immovable (1 Corinthians 15:58).
• b) They become mentors and spiritual leaders – They guide others in their spiritual journey (2 Timothy 2:2).
• c) Spiritual authority and influence increase – Mature believers operate in divine wisdom and power (Hebrews 5:13-14).
• d) They live a life of complete surrender and obedience to God – Every action is guided by the Holy Spirit (Galatians 2:20).
• e) Biblical Example: Paul, who went from being a persecutor to a strong leader in the church, mentoring Timothy and others (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

CONCLUSION:

Every believer is called to grow from spiritual infancy to maturity in Christ. Spiritual growth is not automatic; it requires intentional effort in studying God’s Word, prayer, service, and obedience.

Where are you in your spiritual journey? Are you growing, or are you stagnant? God desires that we progress from being spiritual infants to mature Christians who can impact others and advance His kingdom.