How can we apply Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians 3:1 to our daily lives? Setting the Scene “Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual, but as worldly—mere infants in Christ.” (1 Colossians 3:1) Paul writes to believers who had received the gospel but were still living like the culture around them. They were saved, yet stunted—sitting in the nursery when they belonged on the mission field. What Paul Means by “Infants” • Dependent on others to chew truth for them • Tossed by feelings instead of led by Scripture • Focused on personalities (“I follow Paul…”) rather than Christ (1 Colossians 3:4) • Quick to quarrel, slow to love (1 Colossians 3:3) Spotting Spiritual Infancy in Ourselves • Bible dustier than the coffee table • Entertainment choices shaped by appetite, not discernment • Prayer limited to emergencies • Giving or serving only when convenient • Identity wrapped up in job, politics, or social media likes rather than in Christ Moving From Milk to Solid Food 1. Daily Scripture intake – Hebrews 5:14: “Solid food is for the mature, who by practice have trained their senses.” 2. Practice what you learn – James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” 3. Submit to the Spirit’s leading – Galatians 5:16: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the flesh.” 4. Invest in the local church – Ephesians 4:16: “The whole body, joined and held together, grows as each part does its work.” 5. Accept loving correction – Proverbs 27:6: “Faithful are the wounds of a friend.” Daily Life Applications • Begin each morning with a portion of Scripture before scrolling news feeds. • Replace gossip at work with encouragement; trade complaint for gratitude. • Memorize one verse a week—let it shape thoughts and reactions. • Budget time and money to support gospel ministry, showing maturity in stewardship. • Mentor someone younger in the faith; teaching cements your own growth. • Evaluate entertainment: Does it nurture the Spirit or the flesh? Choose accordingly. • When conflict arises, ask, “Am I acting like an infant or like Christ?” Encouragement From Other Passages • Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” • 2 Peter 3:18: “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” • Ephesians 4:15: “Speaking the truth in love, we will grow up into Christ.” Takeaway Truths • Salvation is the starting line; growth is the race. • Spiritual maturity shows in everyday choices, not just church attendance. • God’s Word and God’s Spirit provide all we need to move from milk to meat—today. |
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