Becoming mature in the faith is not easy, but it dramatically affects our lives and interactions with others. As Paul writes his letter to the church in Corinth, it is to address problems in the church. One of the problems he was working through was people not loving others when using their spiritual gifts. Speaking in tongues created difficulty in the church because people misused the gift in a worship setting.
Speaking in tongues or a prayer language is for your edification. Paul gives us guidelines for speaking in tongues in a worship setting that will be helpful for all those in attendance.1 Corinthians 14: 27 No more than two or three should speak in tongues. They must speak one at a time, and someone must interpret what they say. 28 But if no one is present who can interpret, they must be silent in your church meeting and speak in tongues to God privately.[1]
The Lord Wants Us to Grow Up
I grew up on a farm, and at a certain age, Dad expected us to leave our toys in the house and go outside and help with the farm work. At first, I was doing simple jobs like sweeping, but as I matured and was older, I could drive a tractor, milk cows, and do other farm chores. In the church, the Lord also wants us to mature and not stay at a childlike level. Paul writes about the importance of maturing in the church.1 Corinthians 13:11When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things.[2]
Paul’s desire for the church in Corinth and the Lord’s desire for all of us is to become more mature in the faith. When we do, we begin to see ourselves and others differently. When I am more mature, I can give up my way for the sake of someone else. Also, as I mature, I will use my gifts lovingly.
Spiritual Maturity Takes Time
As believers in Jesus, we rely on God to give us the strength and wisdom to make mature decisions. Becoming a more mature person of faith requires spending time with the Lord in His word, fellowshipping with other believers, serving others, and praying. Asking the Lord to help you mature and setting aside time for that to occur is crucial for maturity.
One of the most significant ways that have helped me grow in faith is spending time with the Lord in His word. 1 Timothy 4:7 Train yourself to be godly. 8 Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.[3] As we train ourselves spiritually, you will be amazed at how the Lord molds us into more mature believers.
To learn more about becoming mature in the faith, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/worship-in-love
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (1 Co 14:27–28). Tyndale House Publishers.