SUNDAY March 13, 2022

Christian Maturity

Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.
Colossians 1:28-29

The Holy Spirit mightily empowered the Apostle Paul. Despite his ongoing circumstances in prison, he continued to labor to this end––to see believers mature in Christ. Paul labored, striving to complete his call. The word strive means to “agonize.” The work of God was accomplished through the Spirit of God.

What is a pastor’s duty in the body of Christ? It is to present believers to God as mature––perfect. Christian maturity happens through the study of God’s Word. When any leader stands before God for their stewardship, they can say with a clear conscience, “I did my best and committed the rest to You.” Pastors and leaders desire to see people grow in the truth of God.

Have you matured in Christ? The Scriptures reveal the truth about heaven and hell, justification and sanctification, and the coming of the Lord. God’s truth is revealed about Jesus Christ. A mature Christian understands that salvation is through Jesus Christ alone. Once these doctrinal things are comprehended, you can pass them on to others with confidence. Then other people will come to the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

I am determined to fulfill my call by teaching the full counsel of God to the congregation––from Genesis to Revelation. This is my priority, so that when I stand before God, I can say, “Father, here they are! I taught them Your Word and equipped them for the work You had for them to do.” People often ask me if I am ever going to retire. I Iove what I do––seeing people get saved. I have the best job in the whole world––and so do you!

One of the purposes of the church is equipping the saints (Ephesians 4:12-16). In turn, Christians have the responsibility to be obedient to the Word of God and fulfill their individual call.

Spiritual maturity is not reached by the passing of the years, but by obedience to the will of God.
~Oswald Chambers~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!