Growth is expected in life, and we are troubled by lack of physical growth’ We tend to be equally troubled by lack of emotional growth. What might be more troubling, however, is the lack of spiritual growth. An old commentator has said, “Ordinarily men in religion are what they design to be. They have about as much religion as they wish, and possess about the character which they intend to possess.”
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18
Spiritual Growth Is Likened to a Tree
- We must grow downward – getting roots down deep
- We must grow upward – perfecting our relationship with the Lord
- We must grow outward – ever spreading our influence abroad
- We must bear fruit – such is a clear sign of health
Spiritual Growth Is a Continuing Process
There is no chance of perfection on earth.
- No one has ever grown as much as he or she could
- Few have ever grown as much as they should
The process must be a constant concern
- We grow or we decline – a plateau is a decline
- How much thought and effort do you give to growth?
Spiritual Growth Is the Result of Specific Effort
We are commanded to do it. Growth is not something that just happens to us. Note the difference between physical and emotional growth.
- Physical growth just happens
- Emotional growth comes through effort
Spiritual Growth Is the Product of a Program
- It comes from exposure to the Word
- It comes from practicing the Word
- It comes from applying the Word to life
Spiritual Growth Involves Struggle
- Satan always opposes growth
- Some growth comes through the struggle
- We don’t like the problems in our spiritual lives
- Spiritual problems often lead to growth
Spiritual Growth Is Always Measurable
- We tend to measure growth in terms of growth and knowledge
- This may be the biggest problem in Christianity
- Truth is meaningless if it is not applied
- It should be measured in terms of conformity to Christ
- Since we are not naturally like that, growth involves change
- Change becomes a valid measurement of growth
Conclusion
Are you as old as you actually are? Does your maturity level match your chronology? Are you as old as you actually are spiritually? What needs work? Someone has said, “Growth shall prove your life.”
Recommended Bible Study Resources
ESV Study Bible – Study Bibles give you a deeper understanding of God’s Word with tools for life application like commentary, maps, charts, concordance, and study notes. Search our popular translations- NIV, ESV, NKJV, KJV and more!
Believer’s Bible Commentary: Second Edition – A Bible commentary is a written, systematic series of explanations and interpretations of Scripture. Commentaries often analyze or expound on individual books of the Bible, chapter by chapter and verse by verse. Some commentary works provide analysis of the whole of Scripture.
The New Strong’s Expanded Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible – The best concordance for word study! This exclusive new edition of a legendary classic puts generations of biblical research at your fingertips. A valuable tool for pastors, teachers, and students of the Bible.
Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words – This classic word study resource allows you to study the meaning of biblical words in the original languages without spending years learning Greek or Hebrew. A great resource for students, seasoned pastors, and anyone who enjoys biblical word studies–even if they have little to no formal training in Hebrew or Greek.
Halley’s Bible Handbook – The beloved and classic Bible companion has been thoroughly updated, while retaining its time-honored features and Dr. Halley’s highly personal style, to offer even greater clarity, insight, and usefulness.
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