RPG Adults
MATURE CHRISTIAN THINKING
LORD’S DAY, JULY 24
Philippians 3:15-16
Galatians 5:22-26
God’s Word
beautifies my heart.
MATURE CHRISTIAN THINKING
Our meditation today is addressed to “as many as be perfect” (Phil 3:15). The word “perfect” as used in the New Testament means complete or mature. It is the opposite of immature or juvenile. This word is regularly used to refer to believers who have adult spiritual understanding. Such a mature believer is able to understand the deep spiritual truths of Scripture as they are revealed by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 2:6-10).
Spiritual maturity is a pivotal point of the Bible’s message and the Christian life. All Christians are expected to become mature, understand God’s Word, and live in agreement with, and in obedience to, it (Col 1:28). The failure to go on to perfection (i.e. maturity) places the believer in a dangerous position (Heb 6:1-3). Scripture clearly warns us against spiritual lethargy (Heb 5:11-14).
Part of maturity is having a proper view of our own spiritual attainment. It is important for each of us to have proper thinking concerning ourselves. False pride in one’s spiritual advancement is a sure sign of immaturity as it is contrary to the teaching of Scripture (Rom 12:3). Part of the rich Christian fellowship which mature believers experience comes from likemindedness or proper thinking concerning our own Christian maturity (Phil 1:27; 2:2, 15).
Although we have not yet attained that Christ-like stature which every believer should strive for, we can thank God for the growth we have experienced. Each Christian must be careful not to backslide or stand still so far as these things are concerned. We must avail ourselves of the power of God and the spiritual strength we have in Christ to stand firm (Eph 6:13). Let us remember that God has given us “all things that pertain unto life and godliness” (2 Pet 1:3). Then, in humility of heart and with confidence in the Lord, we can move forward with Him.
THOUGHT: What is a sign of true spiritual maturity?
PRAYER: Father, may I reflect Christian maturity by esteeming others better than myself (Phil 2:3).