What are the marks of a mature Christian? Is it showing up to church every week? Is it the ability to pray in such a way that everyone wishes they could pray like you? Is it the ability to teach and share knowledge? I'm afraid in the world of Christianity we often have things backwards compared to how Christ would have described maturity.
I was reminded this week how in the upper room as He and the disciples celebrated the Passover meal together (yes meal, more than crackers and juice...but I'll save that discussion for another time), Jesus took a towel, knelt down and began to wash their feet. Here he was the King of Kings, doing the work of a servant. Jesus reminded us that the first would be last and the last would be first. Maybe we have this whole maturity thing backwards...
I came across an article that spoke to what a mature Christian looks like:
(
10 Marks of a Mature Christian)
Here are the 10 marks as the author Frank Powell sees it.
1) The highs and lows of life don’t impact your relationship with God.
2) You find value in the “daily-ness” and trivial seasons of life.
3) You are at peace with situations beyond your control.
4) You don’t allow disciplines to take a back seat.
5) You maintain a childlike sense of wonder and awe.
6) You do not compare yourself to others.
7) You listen to others who have a different viewpoint … with the goal of growing and not correcting.
8) Your heart breaks for the poor and marginalized.
9) You understand Christianity doesn’t have an on/off switch.
10) You have a sustainable rhythm to your life.
One of the biggest keys to the kind of life in Christ described in this article is consistency. Consistency is built by faith. When we believe God is in control, that He is our life, that He is our source, then we begin to walk in the love and peace that only comes from being his child. That is maturity in Christ.
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