Ignorance of theology and doctrine will guide your life with as much force as sound knowledge and understanding of biblical truth, but with disastrous results. In the NLT, 1 Peter 2:2 reads, “Crave pure spiritual milk so that you can grow into the fullness of your salvation.”

God uses three things to mature Christians. First, He uses people to produce growth—“As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens … his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17) Iron cutting tools are made sharp, and ready for use by rubbing them against a file, or another piece of iron. A man is provoked to grow by his friend. Second, God uses circumstances to produce growth—“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) There are four powerful statements in this verse: (a) ‘All Things’: that means even sin. When believers fall, they tend to rise humble and more careful. (b) ‘Work Together’: one experience by itself may not seem useful, but with other experiences, it begins to become clear. (c) ‘For Good’: all experiences God brings or allows in your life have the potential to bring you nearer to Him … it depends on your response. (d) ‘According to His Purpose’: it is God’s purposes and pleasure that matter, not ours. Third, God uses spiritual disciplines to produce growth—“Exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.” (1 Timothy 4:7-8) Spiritual disciplines are patterns (habits) that are developed through commitment and guide a believer to grow to maturity. Primarily, they are Bible study, prayer, worship, service, and giving. Jesus Christ is not looking for part-time followers.

Sin cera, Erik

Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

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