Ready, Set, Grow

Growth is absolutely essential in the Christian faith. Without it, we don't fulfill God's plan for our lives. Without it, we become a poor example of what a Christian looks like and talks like.

1. We have an outstanding discipleship program that begins with a class called foundations.
2. We have Bible study classes that meet throughout the week.
3. We have School of the Bible & Faith Institute.
4. We also have home groups, many of which are Bible studies. Besides becoming a student of the word, you also need to look back and see whether you were baptized in water after you became a believer

Let's look at 4 stages of spiritual growth:
1. The baby stage

A baby is expected to grow and develop. For instance, if a two-year-old child is still not walking, there is cause for concern. As it is with the natural world, so it is with the spiritual world. When we come into the church, most of us have much to learn.

1. Repentance from dead works
2. Faith toward God
3. Doctrine of baptisms (water and spirit)
4. Laying on of hands
5. Resurrection of the dead
6. Eternal judgment

Beside these truths, the new Christian needs to be taught important principles that lead to spiritual growth, such as prayer and fasting, faithfulness to God and believers, worship, giving, and holiness.

Characteristics of Babies
1. All his needs are met by other people. He often makes those needs known by crying, as he has no other way to express them.
2. The natural baby will often fall until its muscles become more developed. It is the same with the spiritual baby. The saints and leaders must have much patience as the new convert gradually develops his spiritual muscles.

The Child Stage

Positive
Jesus points out to us that children as a whole are humble, trusting, and obedient. They will normally do anything you ask them to, trusting that whatever you say is correct. They are not too proud to humble themselves before God and men.

Negative
Because they believe everything they hear and trust everybody without question, they are easily led astray. That is why Paul warns, "be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine."

Young people tend to believe that they know more than their elders. They like their independence. It is often difficult for them to be subject to authority. Often they don't appreciate anybody correcting them.

Some people remain in the "baby stage" year after year. There is no spiritual growth in their walk with God. They are in a spiritual rut. They are going nowhere. This is not the will of God for any of us.

Can you identify what stage of spiritual life you’re in?