We must first learn to identify and understand how we spiritually mature by becoming more intentional in our use of time and methods. Understanding the dynamics of spiritual growth makes us more aware of how God uses the specific circumstances of our lives to draw us closer to Himself.
There are eight principles of spiritual growth that helps us to unravel God’s mystery of transforming sinful, rebellious people into godly, passionate lovers of His Son, Jesus. We are using scriptures and common experiences to drive our point across.
1. God is ultimately responsible for all spiritual growth.
• Isaiah 61:11 God plays the role of a seasoned farmer, carefully preparing the soil and maintaining the garden with the vision to sea each seed grow into maturity.
• 1 Corinthians 15:10 teaches that everything the Christian becomes or accomplishes for the kingdom of God is only because of God’s grace and power
• Phil. 1:6 God is ultimately responsible for the growth process in our lives from beginning to end
2. Effort, diligence, and discipline are absolutely necessary for growth
3. Spiritual growth potential may not be easy to see at first
4. Spiritual growth depends on an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.
5. Growth is primarily an inside-out process
6. Spiritual growth relates to every aspect of our lives
7. Growth happens most naturally within a close social context.
• Close-knit families and churches are nurturing nests for strong, growing Christians
• Deut 6: 6-9 Moses encouraged the people to naturally learn to worship, love, and obey God
• Acts 2:42-47 it is evident that the
8. Significant growth occurs within the context of frustration, suffering, or challenge.
• 2 Thess 1:3 point to the principle that we often grow most through difficult times
• Romans 8: 18-27 suffering is presented as a necessary and even normal part of the Christian
• James 1: 12 staying obedient to the Lord in the midst of suffering can strengthen our faith
FOR FURHTER DISCUSSION
1. Which of the eight ways that people grow and develop is the most significant for you personally?
2. Identify a time in your life when you grew the most and explain why.
3. What do you think are the consequences when a person who claims to be a Christian refuses to put forth any effort to grow?
4. Why is it that many people don’t really grow until they hit a difficult obstacle in life?
5. Identify the characteristics of a class experience or a group experience that had a significant influence on your life spiritually.
We study the word of God so we can get ready, be prepared, and know that God is near! Luke 1:17 And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah... to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
