How can we encourage others to grow beyond spiritual infancy in their faith? Listening to the Warning in Hebrews 5:11 “About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, because you are dull of hearing.” Seeing the Symptoms of Spiritual Infancy • Dependence on others for the simplest truths (Hebrews 5:12) • Limited appetite for Scripture beyond the basics (1 Peter 2:2) • Instability and susceptibility to error (Ephesians 4:14) • Lack of trained discernment between good and evil (Hebrews 5:14) Providing Solid Food: What Maturing Believers Need • Consistent, expositional teaching of the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27) • Repetition and application of sound doctrine until it becomes conviction (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Examples of mature faith lived out in ordinary life (Philippians 3:17) • Opportunities to serve, stretching faith through obedient action (James 1:22) Practical Ways to Encourage Growth • Model personal Bible study: read aloud, explain, and invite others to copy the pattern. • Pair newer believers with seasoned mentors for life-on-life discipleship (Titus 2:1-8). • Share testimonies of answered prayer and faith tested in trials (Romans 5:3-5). • Recommend rich, trustworthy resources—commentaries, biographies of faithful saints, hymns packed with doctrine. • Challenge memorization of larger passages (Psalm 119:11) rather than isolated verses. • Gather in small groups that prioritize Scripture and accountability over mere fellowship. • Encourage participation in corporate worship where doctrine is sung, preached, and prayed (Colossians 3:16). • Correct error gently yet firmly, restoring with truth instead of overlooking immaturity (Galatians 6:1). Creating an Atmosphere Where Growth Can Flourish • Love that speaks truth (Ephesians 4:15) • Patience that allows time for roots to sink deep (Mark 4:20) • Encouragement that celebrates every step toward Christlikeness (1 Thessalonians 5:11) • Iron-sharpening-iron relationships that provoke holiness (Proverbs 27:17) Keeping the Goal Before Us “We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.” (Colossians 1:28) Move fellow believers from milk to solid food, from infancy to maturity, until they stand firm, discerning, and fruitful—ready to disciple the next generation in turn. |
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