Maturity for a Purpose

By: Mae Archila

Monday, June 23, 2025

...until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. Ephesians 4:13 (NLT)

Growing up, I was one of the oldest of eleven children, and my parents often left me in charge while they ran errands. When they returned, they would always ask me how things went. But if I said the younger ones misbehaved, I would hear this; “You should have known!” or “You’re the oldest, and you were in charge!” As I matured, I became wiser, and earned my parents trust by successfully caring for my younger brothers and sisters. Throughout my early years, I always wanted to learn as much as possible from my parents. With time, training, and guidance, I learned life skills. Eventually, I was able to pass on what I learned to my younger brothers and sisters. You might say my maturity had a higher purpose built into it.

We’ve all met or heard about immature people. Those people who refuse to mature and become responsible. They aren't leaders in their homes, workplaces, or ministry. Immaturity can be physical or spiritual, and in both cases, there are consequences. God’s Word warns us there may be severe consequences if we choose to remain spiritually immature. Spiritual growth is a foundational requirement for Christ followers. Our heavenly Father wants us to keep growing and learning from Him until He returns. He also wants us to have a hunger for the things of God.

Spiritual maturity is vital, but it's an ongoing process that never ends. Our spiritual growth will only be completed when Christ returns! But our spiritual growth is not just for us. God also wants us to pass on (disciple) what we've learned to newer believers. But unlike my childhood, when God "leaves us in charge" it doesn’t mean we're left alone! Don't be nervous, when we disciple someone, we'll always have the Holy Spirit’s guidance, help, and assistance!

The Higher purposes of Spiritual Maturity:

1. A closer fellowship with God (1 John 1:3).
2. A deeper understanding of God’s Word (Luke 24:25).
3. It aligns our thoughts and actions with God's will (Romans 12:2).
4. Our delight in God grows, and we experience His best (Psalm 37:4).

So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Hebrews 6:1 (NLT)

Let's take this verse to heart and keep growing in Christ! No matter how long we've been saved, or how many years we've been attending church, if Jesus hasn't returned, we aren't fully mature!