Levels Of Maturity
For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the
word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong
meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even
those who by reason of use have their senses
exercised to discern both good and evil
(Hebrews 5:13-14).
Some Christians get very excited to read 1
Corinthians 1:30: “But of him are ye in Christ
Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and
righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.”
Then, they come across James 1:5: “If any of you lack
wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men
liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given
him” and get confused. “Should one still ask for wisdom
after Christ has been made unto us wisdom?” they
wonder. Now, those two verses aren’t contradictory
at all; it’s about levels of maturity in Christ.
The Scriptures are given to us to guide and lead
us, and as you study, you’ll find that there’re different
kinds of instructions for different groups of Christians
on the basis of their maturity. Some are addressed to
the babes in Christ; others, to the maturing in Christ,
and then, there’re instructions for the “fathers” or the
spiritually mature in Christ.
The one who’s still a babe in Christ may quote
and confess that Christ has been made unto him
wisdom, but he hasn’t really caught it. His words and
actions may still be incongruous with the Word, and
the wisdom of God. He isn’t yet manifesting wisdom,
which is a fruit of righteousness. He still acts and thinks
like the rest of the world, like those without wisdom.
So, James says to such a fellow, “Ask that wisdom
becomes a reality in your life.”
Remember, it’s children, the babes in Christ, that
ask for things. Jesus said, “Ask and it shall be given unto
you”; He related it with children asking their father for
bread (Luke 11:9-12). The spiritually mature doesn’t
ask for anything, because he lacks nothing in Christ.
This has become his living consciousness. This is the
level God wants you to grow into, where you know
that all things are yours; you’re not asking for wisdom,
but walking in wisdom.
Confession
I’m bearing fruits of righteousness, and the glory of God is revealed
in me today in wisdom, power and might! I live in victory and
dominion over the elements of this world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Further study:
1 Corinthians 3:21-22; Galatians 4:1-2
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Chronicles 5-6
John 15:18-16:1-16
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Mark 14:22-31