In the Bible we see a call for growth in spiritual maturity. Healthy spiritual development is not automatic, but occurs within the confines of a healthy community of Christians. When we understand that our development as mature disciples can become impeded, and that we can even regress spiritually, we see how important it is for us to encourage one another. We all are “a work in progress” and many may occasionally oscillate from one stage to another. Growing up spiritually requires our willing cooperation with the work of the Holy Spirit. Becoming familiar with the stages and the catalysts that help people to continue to grow will help us to be better at discipling others.

 

Day 1       1 John 2:12-14

Reflect: Why do you think John chose this language for describing the disciples to whom he is writing? To what is he eluding?  

Apply:   How would you describe the spiritual condition and role of the disciples in each of these three stages?

Pray:     Father, bring people into my life that will help me to grow as a disciple and show me how I can be that person for someone else. As disciples, may we all continue to grow in love and surrender to You.  

 

Day 2     Ephesians 4:14-16   

Reflect: What three things are necessary for the church to do the works God has designed (Verses 14,15)? Why? What are the characteristics of the church (verse 16)? 

Apply:    Reflecting on your own spiritual growth, what factors have accelerated growth? Slowed it? What are your specific desires for continued spiritual growth and maturity?

Pray:      Write down your hopes and desires for spiritual growth and bring them before the Lord. 

                                                                 

Day 3      Hebrews 5:12-6:3  

Reflect: Who does the writer believe should become teachers? Why does he review elementary teachings? What foundational tenets of the gospel are mentioned? 

Apply:    Based on verse 14, what is essential for growth in Christ? How can you begin to partake of more solid food? What do you need to help you “chew” on more “meaty” food?

Pray:       Holy Spirit, train my senses to discern between truth and distorted teaching as I abide in Christ. May I increasingly grow and mature into a deeper awareness of all that You have to teach me.

   

Day 4      Colossians 1:24-29 

Reflect: What is Paul so passionate about and why?  From this text, how do people grow in Christ? What are the most significant warnings and teachings you have received?

Apply:   Describe a fully mature person, or one who is perfect in their relationship to Christ. Why don’t many people pursue maturity in Christ or need encouragement to do so?  

Pray:     Father, I pray for our church to faithfully proclaim the gospel, which is fully revealed and is summed up as CHRIST in US! Help us to be willing to suffer in the battle against any false gospel and in humble obedience, to grow to maturity in Christ.

 

Day 5     1 Corinthians 3:1-9      

Reflect: What are the differences between a spiritual and a worldly believer? What controls a worldly believer? Where do you see Paul giving God the glory for spiritual growth?  

Apply:    In what ways do you still behave in a worldly manner?  Why? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal ways in which you can grow in spiritual maturity. How will you respond to Him? 

Pray:      Father, thank You for the privilege of being used in the world as a witness of Christ. Root out all that is of me, and replace it with the nature of Jesus. In the power of the Holy Spirit, help me to carry out the work that You have prepared for me to do.

 

Put It into Practice!

Week 2: Stages of Discipleship

Evaluate your own spiritual maturity and identify the disciplines and other catalysts that have helped you mature. Pray about new disciplines to pursue and/or what may need to be modified for your continued growth.