Christian Maturity - David Smith

The Listooder meetings began again with the visit of David Smith, considering the subject of Christian Maturity. David began by likening a mature Christian to an established tree, producing fruit, standing strong and fulfilling its purpose. He was, however, very quick to point out that a mature Christian was not necessarily an older Christian and that it was more than possible for a young Believer to show signs of maturity in the Christian faith. Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. - 1 Timothy 4:12

Speaking from 2 Corinthians 5:7, David defines a mature Christian as one who realises his position in life, and one who allows this to dictate everything in his/her life.

For we walk by faith, not by sight - 2 Corinthians 5:7 A Mature Christian knows their Foundation A sign of maturity is the knowledge that our lives, and everything in them, is built upon Christ. Without Him we are nothing. All our hopes, dreams and desires are worthless unless they share the same foundation. A mature Christian will build every decision, every relationship and every pursuit upon the Word of God, ensuring that it is in His will. A Mature Christian knows their Practise In verse 7 above, the phrase 'walk by faith' indicates the manner in which a mature Christian should journey through life. Walking is the most natural, common way for us to get from one place to another. It is second nature, requiring little thought or effort. In much the same way, doing the right thing as a Christian will be natural for those mature in the faith. Our Christian walk should be consistent, always making progress, with our minds clearly focused on our destination, which is Christ. A Mature Christian knows their Expectation As Paul explained in 1 Corinthians 5, the thoughts of a Christian should not be limited to the things of this world, but rather on things beyond. Although we have been given this opportunity to live on earth and to enjoy the short time the Lord has given us here, there is a far greater plan for us as believers, and that is to enjoy God's glory in heaven forever. A mature Christian will constantly be reminded that no matter how enjoyable this world can be, it will never compare to the wonder of heaven, and the eternal joy of Christ's presence. A Mature Christian knows their Certainty Every Christian has the same assurances from God. The assurance of God's presence with us; the assurance of our sins forgiven; the assurance of a home in heaven. However, it is a mature Christian who will allow these certainties to direct their life. The knowledge of God's presence will eliminate fear, the knowledge of sins forgiven will remove guilt and the knowledge of eternal security will banish doubt. A mature believer then is one who is driven by God's certainties in Scripture, who is not distracted by the pleasures of the world, who is consistent in their walk and who is sure in their foundation. It is fairly certain that, regardless of how long we have been saved, not one of us can claim to have reached full maturity. But let us strive to be more mature, and to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ - 2 Peter 3:18.