Topical Bible: Spiritual Life: Seek to Grow In

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The concept of spiritual life in the Christian faith is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, emphasizing the believer's journey toward maturity in Christ. Spiritual growth is not merely an option but a divine expectation for those who have been born again. The Bible provides numerous exhortations and examples that encourage believers to seek growth in their spiritual lives.

Biblical Foundation

The call to spiritual growth is evident throughout the New Testament. In 2 Peter 3:18, believers are instructed to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." This growth is not passive but requires active pursuit and engagement with the teachings of Christ. Similarly, the Apostle Paul urges the Colossians to be "rooted and built up in Him, established in the faith" (Colossians 2:7), highlighting the importance of a firm foundation in Christ for spiritual development.

Means of Growth

1. Scripture Engagement: The Word of God is central to spiritual growth. Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word as "living and active," capable of transforming the believer's heart and mind. Regular study and meditation on Scripture are essential for understanding God's will and aligning one's life with His purposes.

2. Prayer: Prayer is a vital component of spiritual life, fostering a deeper relationship with God. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers to present their requests to God, promising that His peace will guard their hearts and minds. Through prayer, believers communicate with God, seek His guidance, and express their dependence on Him.

3. Fellowship: The Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts believers to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds" and to "not neglect meeting together." Fellowship with other believers provides encouragement, accountability, and opportunities for mutual edification.

4. Obedience: Spiritual growth is evidenced by obedience to God's commands. Jesus stated, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). Obedience is a demonstration of faith and love for God, leading to a more profound experience of His presence and blessings.

5. Service: Engaging in acts of service is a practical expression of spiritual maturity. Ephesians 2:10 declares that believers are "created in Christ Jesus for good works," which God prepared in advance for them to do. Serving others reflects Christ's love and advances His kingdom on earth.

Challenges to Growth

While the pursuit of spiritual growth is essential, believers may encounter obstacles such as complacency, worldly distractions, and spiritual warfare. The parable of the sower in Matthew 13 illustrates how various factors can hinder spiritual development, such as the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches. Believers are called to remain vigilant, putting on the full armor of God to stand firm against the schemes of the devil (Ephesians 6:11).

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the believer's spiritual growth. Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, and other virtues that characterize a mature Christian life. The Spirit empowers believers to overcome sin, understand Scripture, and live in a manner that pleases God.

Conclusion

The pursuit of spiritual growth is a lifelong journey that requires intentionality and reliance on God's grace. By engaging with Scripture, prayer, fellowship, obedience, and service, believers can grow in their spiritual lives, becoming more like Christ and fulfilling their God-given purpose.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ephesians 4:15
But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Peter 2:2
As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Life in Christ
... Go to the source of life for an increase of spiritual life. Go to Jesus. ... Serve
him better, and seek to grow up into his likeness in all things. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/life in christ.htm

Spiritual Growth
... from evil things we must definitely seek and secure ... and spreading and gripping of
the spiritual forces and ... stand before the storms and scorching tests of life. ...
/.../howard/standards of life and service/xvii spiritual growth.htm

Thirteenth Lesson. Prayer and Fasting;'
... glory of God has not yet become a spiritual reality. ... prayer, is, that it is only
in a life of moderation ... to sacrifice ourselves, to attain what we seek for the ...
/.../with christ in the school of prayer/thirteenth lesson prayer and fasting.htm

Sharing Christ's Life
... The very first evidence of spiritual life is trusting in Jesus ... us of his life, and
then that life goes back ... Brethren, if you seek the life of other souls, and ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 60 1914/sharing christs life.htm

Of the Zealous Amendment of Our Whole Life
... and devoutly in the most holy life and passion ... without inward consolation, and is
forbidden to seek that which ... were not, but only the spiritual refreshments of ...
/.../kempis/imitation of christ/chapter xxv of the zealous.htm

Devotion to God.
... ye be risen [have life] with Christ, seek those things ... unfold us more and more into
an heavenly life. ... for the constant healthful growth of our spiritual natures ...
//christianbookshelf.org/orr/how to live a holy life/devotion to god.htm

The Case of Spiritual Decay and Languor in Religion
... resistance to their attempts will grow weaker and ... in these circumstances, above all,
seek the converse ... me more abundant degrees of spiritual life and activity ...
/.../the rise and progress of religion in the soul/chapter xxii the case of.htm

Growing up into Christ
... by anxiety or effort of yourself, secure spiritual growth ... Drawing your life from
Him, you will not wither nor ... the forgiveness of sin, but now they seek by their ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/steps to christ/chapter 8 growing up into.htm

Spiritual Culture.
... "But grow in grace ... A decline in spiritual life usually begins at the secret closet. ...
that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him," for ...
//christianbookshelf.org/orr/the gospel day /chapter xi spiritual culture.htm

Mental Prayer.
... If left to ourselves we should grow up haters of God ... enlightens and purifies us,
and prompts us to seek God ... as I have said), it gives a spiritual life; it opens ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol vii/sermon xv mental prayer.htm