maturity
So i’ve “always” had this thought, “you’re either growing or you’re dying.” In the life of a plant it starts out as a seed, sprouts, grows, reproduces itself, and then goes on to death. In the same way we are born, we grow going through different stages in our life and then at a certain point our bodies begin to die. There really isn’t any in-between “just being” stage. Our cells are continually reproducing themselves as the old ones die. We are either growing or dying, full of life or becoming stagnant. I’m not saying that there isn’t any down time or slow time in our lives or even a time when we are broken down, but what i am saying is that we have to continually strive to grow in our walks with Christ. At least holding the ground where we are… standing firm is, in-essence, moving forward. (Galatians 5:1, Ephesians 6:13-14)
I heard a great thought today about maturity, specifically, in churches. “A mature church is full of immaturity.” That’s because the mature are reaching the lost and new, baby, immature Christians are always popping up - seeds sprouting if-you-will. I totally agree with that statement. Mature Christians should be reproducing themselves, reproducing the character of Jesus in others through Jesus in them. It’s like the statement of Paul, “follow me as i follow Christ.”
Lets make that statement and then strive to follow Christ with our lives open for others to follow as we follow Jesus. It’s a bold and somewhat scary thing to say, but i think that it is one of the best ways to make disciples. Following Christ and inviting others to follow your example. (Man, i feel the weight of responsibility in that statement!)
How awesome is it to see lives changed by the love, grace, and even discipline of Jesus? I’m challenged to connect with students and to help them connect with God.
Any thoughts, questions, or comments? Please let me know.
