Spiritual Maturity (Bible Study)
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The document discusses the concept of spiritual maturity within Christianity, emphasizing that it is defined by one's relationship with God and expressed through Christ-likeness rather than age or position in the church. It outlines steps to achieving maturity, such as becoming aware of Christ, engaging in prayer and fasting, and maintaining a sober reflection on scriptures. The document also highlights observable signs of spiritual maturity, including integrity, good reputation, and a transformed lifestyle based on faith.
Spiritual Maturity (Bible Study)
- 1. Breath of Life International Church 3763 Junction Boulevard Raleigh, North Carolina 27603 919.448.8198 www.breathoflifeintl.org
- 2. P a g e | 2 Discovering Spiritual Maturity The goal of every Christian is to attain spiritual maturity. Spiritual maturity is measured by one’s relationship with God and the emphasis on such in the life of the individual. Reflection Evaluate yourself. Do you feel that you are spiritually mature? Why or why not? In your opinion, what does it mean to be spiritually mature? Spiritual Maturity is NOT • Being an older member of the church • Carrying a “greater” title or more responsibility than others • Having the ability to quote Scripture • Holding a position of leadership in the church • Equivalent to being in the church for a long period of time • Having family members who operate in leadership and ministry A Biblical Example of Spiritual Maturity – Abraham 1 Abraham had faith that God would keep His promises, even when it seemed impossible. a. Genesis 17: 15-17 b. Genesis 18: 10-15 c. Genesis 21: 1-7 2 Abraham always did his best to keep peace. a. Genesis 13: 1-2 b. 1 John 4: 7-8 3 Abraham did the “right thing”, even when it was tough to do. a. Genesis 14: 11-16 4 Though he was tested, Abraham endured and continued in obedience. a. Genesis 22: 1-8 DISCUSSION As spiritually mature people, what type of attitude should we have as we “wait” on God and His promises? What can we learn from Abraham as he deals with potential conflict from Lot? What obstacles do we face when trying to do “the right thing?” Breath of Life International Church: A Practical Study on Spiritual Maturity
- 3. P a g e | 3 Becoming Spiritually Mature Spiritual maturity is obtained by becoming Christ-like. Spiritual Maturity Defined • Christ-likeness • Mature is defined as “ripe, complete in growth or development” • Maturity is “consistent, measurable growth or development” Steps to Spiritual Maturity • Christ Awareness • Christ Knowledge • Christ Encounter • Christ Redemption • Christ Likeness • Christ Joint-Heir The Journey to Spiritual Maturity Discovering God Journey to Learning to Live Holy Spirit and His Word Salvation by Faith Awakening Perfecting Becoming an Maturing in Christ Prayer, Fasting Discipleship Ambassador and Revival The Measure of Maturity • Spiritual maturity is measured by fruit, rather than gifts (Galatians 5:22-23 vs. 1 Corinthians 12). • Spiritual maturity is evident in character, as opposed to personality. Becoming Spiritually Mature • KNOW CHRIST rather than simply knowing about Him. Through Christ, we also receive the Holy Spirit and have access to the Father. These benefits compliment only those striving for holiness, which is complete spiritual maturity. Those who truly know Christ will be like Christ (Matthew 11:27; John 14:6). • Remain sober, always reflecting on the Scriptures, through faith (Romans 12:3). • Maintain a sure foundation, through faith (Colossians 2:6-9; Hebrews 6:1-3). • Keep the flesh under subjection, through fasting and prayer (Galatians 5:16-18). Breath of Life International Church: A Practical Study on Spiritual Maturity
- 4. P a g e | 4 Show Me a Sign! There are outward signs (fruit, evidence) of spiritual maturity that should be evident in all who follow Christ. Denying the “Norm” Those who are spiritually mature live in relationship with God, and have grown past the point of religion. Rather than being driven by logic, they live by faith. Unlike those who advance their lives through experience, spiritually mature individuals are constantly reborn and depend on the blood covering of Jesus Christ, as Lord and Savior. Outside Signs of Inward Maturity • Unsolicited, unrestricted praise and worship • Governance by relationship rather than religion o Fasting o Prayer o Bible Study o Holy Living / Sanctification • Persistent integrity, honesty and transparency (Philippians 3:12-13) • Good reputation – It DOES matter what people think (Philippians 2:15) • Peaceful and cordial interaction with others (James 5:9; Romans 12:18) • Persistence toward holiness (Philippians 3:14; 2 Timothy 4:3-5) • A clear conscience toward God (Romans 8:1) • Sanctification – Separation from the world (1 Thessalonians 5:22-23) • Staying in your lane – Knowing your call and operating in your place (1 Corinthians 7:20, 24; 1 Thessalonians 4:11) • Scriptural understanding and revelation (Hebrews 5:13-14) • Sacrificial worship (Romans 12:1-2) • Submission, accountability and obedience (Matthew 16:4; Romans 13:1-2; Hebrews 13:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) • Generous giving (Galatians 6:7-10) • A bridled tongue (Proverbs 6:16-19; James 3:1-12) • Blameless company – Remember Achan, Eli, and many others! • Flesh, Soul, Body has been transformed in hierarchy to Spirit > Soul > Body. NUGGET: There is no authority without maturity! Breath of Life International Church: A Practical Study on Spiritual Maturity