This series of articles is written by Dr Peter Masters (https://metropolitantabernacle.org/articles/a-spiritual-growth-check/).
Growth means dependence upon God, communion with Christ, daily engagement in holiness, prayer and proclamation. We cannot select one or two of these but must engage in all. ‘But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen’ (2 Peter 3.18). This well-known command to grow in grace and knowledge was given by Peter as the essential antidote to backsliding and apostasy, the apostle having just written: ‘Beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.’ . . . How shall we define growing in grace? It is the ongoing Christian walk of proving the free favour of God in daily forgiveness, answered prayer, help in holiness and progress in service. It includes advancing in obedience to the Lord and communion with him. Here are five vital aspects of growth to monitor.
3. Growing in Privileges of Grace
Thirdly, we should grow in the privileges of grace. The favour of God brings enormous privileges to believers, including the spiritual capacity to grasp, learn and explore the Word of God. We also have the privilege of proving the Lord day by day as we call upon his name for blessing in employment, witness, health and help for others, and the resolution of numerous problems. Further, we have the uplifting privilege of that certainty and assurance which fills the heart as we express our love to God in personal prayer – the grace of communion with him.
Do we constantly prove the privilege of prayer and its effectiveness and power? Have we experienced daily the privilege of making intercession for lost people? There is no greater privilege than that of being able to prevail with God on high through prayers which were heard before the foundation of the world by the God of all grace. Have we seen the people for whom we interceded become open to the Gospel through a surprising softening of heart, and a dawning sense of need?
Do we grow in our use of these privileges of grace, or do we fail to call upon the Lord in every trouble and distress? Do we fail to study precious truths which we have been given the power to understand? Do we listen only vaguely to ministry? Do we look for the sweet surprises of communion with the Lord? It is a wonderful development to be growing in the use of the privileges of grace.
4. Growing in Proclamation of Grace
Fourthly, we should be growing also in the proclamation of grace. Every true convert has a testimony, and should be developing in skill to speak to others about the way of salvation. Some Christians have very little opportunity to witness to others in their place of business, but most would be able to participate in corporate witness, assisting their church in the various outreach endeavours. There is a place and need for every believer in the operation of Sunday Schools, Bible classes, neighbourhood visitation, literature distribution, and various other methods for reaching lost souls. Do we participate and steward to help such work? Are we growing in wisdom in speaking to others, and proclaiming the message of grace?
. . . to be continued