I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father. 1 John 2:13 KJV
Unlike natural growth, spiritual growth requires intentional effort. “When I was a child, I spoke as a child; I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things” (1 Corinthians 13:11 NKJV).
Our opening Scripture illustrates that as Christians, we experience three stages of spiritual development, mirroring the natural progression of human growth. It is important that we understand these stages of growth to avoid frustration, having wrong expectations, and judging both ourselves and others harshly. The Bible identifies the first stage as little children. Apostle Peter refers to them as newborn babes in Christ. These must crave the pure milk of the Word in order to grow (1 Peter 2:2).
The newborn babies have features similar to a person who is not a Christian; they live according to the dictates of the flesh, are acquainted with forgiveness of sins and the love of the Father (1 John 2:12-13). They are jealous, envious, full of themselves, and do not know how to talk spiritually (1 Corinthians 3:1–3 AMPC).
In the second stage, young men have developed spiritual strength and authority in Christ. Apostle John, inspired by the Spirit, writes to them, declaring, “I write to you, young people, because you have defeated the Evil One” (1 John 2:13b ERV). These young men have a deep understanding of the Word of God and are exercising their authority in Christ. This stage is characterized by spiritual strength, discipline and growing confidence.
The final stage is fathers. John writes, “I write to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning” (1 John 2:13 NKJV). Their knowledge of God is profound and enduring, experiential and stable. They are not easily swayed by circumstances, having grown into the stability described in Hebrews 5:14. Most importantly; fathers reproduce themselves, raising and discipling others into maturity as Paul instructed in 2 Timothy 2:2. Understanding these stages helps us grow correctly and treat others wisely. God does not expect babies to function like fathers. Fathers must exercise patience with the babies while the babies must desire to progress in their spiritual growth journey.
CONFESSION
I am born of the Word, I grow by the Word. As I feed on the Word, I advance in spiritual strength, stability, ability and maturity. By the Word, I am perfected for every good work.
DEEPER REFLECTION
Hebrews 5:14 (KJV), Ephesians 4:15 (KJV)
1 Peter 2:2 (KJV)
BIBLE READING PLAN
1 YEAR: Deuteronomy 3-4, John 12
2 YEAR: Exodus 29, Mark 1:1-15
