stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 3:12a; 13a)

Maturity in Christ is not a destination. It’s a journey. As believers in Christ, we progressively mature in our relationship with Christ daily until Jesus calls us home.  I think it’s best to say, “I’m maturing” instead of “I’ve matured” when it comes to growth in Christ.  If you remember from last week, “Growing in Christ is called sanctification.  The process of being set apart and increasing holiness is doing God’s will. It includes obeying God’s Word, repenting of sin, being set apart for His glory, and being sent for His purposes.”

When you read Philippians 2:12-13, it’s clear Paul understood he had not fully matured in Christ, something he saw as completed at the end of this life as a “prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.” Paul knew he wasn’t fully mature yet. One day, in heaven, he would be. Until then, he would grow in the Lord. He had not “already obtained all this or already arrived” (v. 12).  He did not “consider yet to have taken hold of it” (v. 13). While Paul knew this would fully happen in heaven, he did not sit idly by waiting lazily until that day.  He had a calling from the Lord to walk in.  He had not yet fully matured in Christ.  He fully yielded to sanctification until Jesus took him to glory.

Paul wasn’t working to continue or ensure his salvation.  He was working from his salvation.  Final perfection wasn’t found in his present situation. Sanctifying grace was already, but not yet.  It had begun but would be concluded at the coming of Christ. Until that day, Paul would continue his pilgrimage to grow in Christ. This progressive growth waited for the Lord’s finalization of salvation with hope in the resurrection and return of Jesus. Like Paul, we must understand sanctification as an ongoing partnership with Christ in a life surrendered and growing in Him.  Only He can save. Only He can give the increase.  Only He can take us to glory. Until we reach heaven, we must continue a path of spiritual growth. We must realize our utter dependence upon Jesus to grow us to be like Him until one day we go to be with Him.

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Oh, how we long for heaven! In your longing (and waiting), how do you want Jesus to grow you?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• Where you have been passive in your spiritual growth, allow the Spirit to lead you to maturity. Pray that God will lead you toward spiritual maturity and intimacy with Jesus.

Action for the Hands (Do)

• In what area of your life is the need for sanctification (more spiritual growth) apparent?  List two or three methods to help you grow.  Can you reach out to someone for assistance in growth (growing together)?