Young Man, Grow Up to Become Mature Ephesians 4:12-13
Growth is a natural part of life. We see it everywhere: from a tiny seed blossoming into a magnificent tree, to a child developing into an adult. Spiritually, it's no different. God desires for every believer, particularly our young people, to grow beyond spiritual infancy and to reach a place of maturity in Christ. This isn't an optional extra; it's part of God's perfect plan for you. Today, we'll explore what it means to grow up and become mature in the faith, as outlined in Ephesians 4:12-13.
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1. Growing Up Is Part of God's Plan for Every Young Person (Ephesians 4:12)
"...for the perfecting of the saints..."
The Apostle Paul tells us that apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are given "for the perfecting of the saints." This word "perfecting" speaks of equipping, mending, and bringing to full maturity. God doesn't want young people to remain spiritually immature, tossed about by every new idea or challenge. Instead, He desires for you to grow to reflect the image of Christ, becoming complete and whole in Him. This is a divine aspiration for your life.
2. Growth Is to Serve Better in Ministry (Ephesians 4:12)
"...for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ."
Why does God want you to grow? Not just for your own benefit, but so that you can serve better in ministry. Spiritual maturity enables young people to contribute effectively and responsibly within the church and in society. As you grow, your gifts become sharper, your discernment clearer, and your capacity to build up the Body of Christ increases. God equips you for service, and growth empowers that service.
3. Spiritual Growth Promotes Unity and Fellowship (Ephesians 4:13)
"until we all come to the unity of the faith..."
Spiritual maturity has a profound impact on the body of Christ. When young people grow in their faith, they contribute to the unity and fellowship of believers. Mature individuals are less prone to divisive arguments, petty squabbles, or self-centeredness. Instead, they promote peace, understanding, and cohesion within the church, helping to bring everyone to a shared understanding and common purpose in the faith.
4. Knowing Christ Is Essential to Maturity (Ephesians 4:13)
"...and the knowledge of the Son of God..."
True spiritual growth isn't simply about accumulating more information or mastering biblical facts. While knowledge of Scripture is vital, true maturity comes from a deeper, more intimate knowledge of the Son of God Himself. It's about developing a living, transforming relationship with Jesus. The more you know Him—His character, His heart, His teachings, His sacrifice—the more you will be transformed into His likeness.
5. God Expects the Young Person to Become a Complete Person in Christ (Ephesians 4:13)
"...to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ."
This is the ultimate goal of spiritual maturity: to become a "perfect man" (referring to a complete or fully developed person) who reflects the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. God expects you to grow into a holistic individual, mirroring Christ's character, wisdom, attitudes, and actions in every area of your life—your relationships, your decisions, your words, and your priorities.
6. Growing Up Means Ceasing to Be Fickle and Vulnerable (Ephesians 4:14)
"That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine..."
Spiritual immaturity often manifests as instability. The immature are easily swayed, "tossed to and fro," and "carried about with every wind of doctrine" or new cultural trend. However, as young people grow up in their faith, they become firm in the Word and purpose of God. They develop discernment and a solid foundation that prevents them from being easily deceived by false teachings or worldly pressures.
7. Growth Requires Effort, Discipline, and Humility (Ephesians 4:15)
"Rather, speaking the truth in love, we will grow up in all things into him who is the head, into Christ."
Spiritual growth isn't automatic; it's a continuous process that demands effort, discipline, and humility. It involves actively "speaking the truth in love," pursuing righteousness, and submitting to God's refining work in your life. This dedication, submission to God's Word, and perseverance in seeking Him will lead to visible spiritual maturity and allow you to grow up "into Him who is the head, into Christ."
- Young! Get Involved and Do the Lord's Work Mark 16:15
- Young People Who Accept Counsel and Discipline Are Wise Proverbs 19:20
- Young man, count on God
Conclusion:
Beloved young people, God has a beautiful plan for your spiritual development. He calls you to grow up, to mature, to become complete in Christ. This growth will equip you for powerful ministry, foster unity in the church, deepen your relationship with Jesus, stabilize you against deception, and ultimately transform you into the full likeness of Christ.
Embrace this journey of growth. Commit yourselves to knowing Christ, to living out His Word, and to pursuing holiness with discipline and humility. The path to maturity is a lifelong one, but it is incredibly rewarding and essential for living a fruitful and impactful life for God.
