Category: Key Growth Posts

steps stages of growth

The Biblical Five-Level Maturity Model – Part 3

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This is the third of a series of three posts on the five levels of Christian maturity found in the books of Timothy and Titus. In the first post in this series we discussed the first two levels of novice and deacon. In the second post we looked at elder level maturity. In this post we look at the last two levels: arch-elder and architect. The fourth level of maturity is arch-elder and Paul’s apprentices Timothy and Titus are examples of this level. Paul directed Titus to “appoint elders in every town” (Titus 1:5, NIV) on the island of Crete. Thus, we can say that arch-elder maturity includes the wisdom and discernment to identify godly people to be leaders. This also suggests that they can be entrusted with top responsibilities in multiple congregations, though since we are just looking at maturity level they may not have any formal responsibilities at Continue Reading →

steps stages of growth

The Biblical Five-Level Maturity Model – Part 2

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Last week we began a series on the five levels of Christian maturity found in the books of Timothy and Titus. We discussed the first two levels of novice and deacon. The third level of maturity in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 is elder maturity. The traits of elders in 1 Timothy 3 not already mentioned for deacons are: above reproach (have blameless character), self-controlled, hospitable, able to teach, gentle, not quarrelsome, not a recent convert, and have a good reputation with outsiders. Titus 1:6-9 gives us these additional traits: not overbearing (arrogant), not quick-tempered, loves what is good, upright, holy, disciplined, and able to refute those who oppose sound doctrine. We notice that the traits for elder maturity amount to a higher standard of godliness. This maturity level requires blameless character, self-control, gentleness, love of good and holiness. One at this level may slip occasionally, but they consistently Continue Reading →

steps stages of growth

The Biblical Five-Level Maturity Model – Part 1

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Understanding stages of growth is important for many reasons. Quoting from one of our earlier posts on stages of growth which emphasized the stages of our experience of God’s felt grace: Understanding progressions of our growth helps us to know where we are and where we are going. It also helps us to be okay with where we are and not dislike ourselves for not being more mature. Understanding phases also teaches us what thoughts and feelings are normal for our situation and what teachings and practices are best for our situation. It also helps us to remain pliable in the Potter’s hand in whatever phase we are in and not struggle to circumvent any painful shaping he is doing. Understanding phases also helps us to be more understanding and helpful to others who are in different phases. Often well-meaning Christians will give advice that is designed to get someone Continue Reading →

joy in the garden

What Will We Do On The New Earth?

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Jesus and his Apostles taught us to keep our focus on the next age. However, when it comes to the next age when we live on the New Earth it is important to remember that God has only revealed what he wants to reveal and we can’t force Scripture to answer questions it isn’t trying to answer. Yet, we have more than enough information in Scripture to assure us that the next age will be euphoric for God’s saints. In Revelation 21 the New Jerusalem will come down from heaven onto Earth (v. 2). Throughout Revelation 21-22 we find signs that this New Jerusalem is also a New Eden. From Revelation 2:7 we know that it is a paradise; remember that Eden means “pleasure” in Hebrew. We will live in delight. This new Eden will not just be a restoration of the first Eden but rather a vastly superior Eden. Continue Reading →

at home with God

How To Pursue God From Home

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Many people around the world are now spending almost all their time at home. If you have found yourself with some extra time or even feeling bored then please consider taking your pursuit of God up a notch. This is your chance to go deeper and discover a greater connection with God. Here are some ideas from previous posts that should help. Learn to let Scripture transform, of “Christform” as I like to say, you. Use this Activational Meditation format to let Scripture go deep and change your heart: https://www.meatformaturity.org/activational-reading-how-to-let-gods-word-change-you/ . Do a “deep clean” of your soul. This might be a time for you to let God work on your weaknesses, unbelief, lack of love and bad habits. Use this exercise to walk through the process of purification: https://www.meatformaturity.org/how-to-work-through-purification/ Here is a more thorough guide for purification for more deeply embedded issues: guide. Assess your spiritual life. Here is Continue Reading →