Study Guide / Outline

Section 1: The Measure of Spiritual Growth

• Main Points:
  • Spiritual growth is measured by a heart connection with God, as exemplified by Jesus’ question to Peter: “Do you love me?”
  • True growth results in actions that naturally flow from a heart aligned with God.
  • Scriptures Used: Gospel of John (specific reference to Jesus’ interaction with Peter).

Section 2: Characteristics of Immature Believers

• Main Points:
  • Immature believers are described as “dull of hearing,” implying a selective hearing

of God’s voice and a lack of sensitivity to spiritual matters. – Being “dull of hearing” means that for such believers, God needs to ‘shout’ to get their attention, indicating a desensitization to subtler forms of divine communication. – Scriptures Used: Hebrews 5:9-14.

Section 3: Leading and Teaching as Signs of Maturity

• Main Points:
  • Mature believers are expected to be teachers and leaders, guiding others in spiritual matters.
  • An inability to teach or lead others in the faith suggests a lack of spiritual maturity and understanding.
  • Scriptures Used: Hebrews 5:9-14.

Section 4: The Importance of Fundamental Spiritual Truths

• Main Points:
  • There is a danger in seeking new revelations at the expense of foundational spiritual truths.
  • Foundational truths, like fundamental skills in any discipline, are crucial for deeper spiritual understanding and growth.
  • The text emphasizes building upon these foundational truths for a stronger spiritual journey.
  • Scriptures Used: Isaiah 28:10.

Section 5: Righteousness and Its Role in Spiritual Maturity

• Main Points:
  • Understanding and speaking about righteousness is essential for spiritual maturity.
  • Righteousness is linked to having a proper relationship with God, marked by a position of equality.
  • The skillful articulation of righteousness in speech indicates a deeper understanding and maturity in one’s spiritual life.
  • Scriptures Used: 2 Corinthians 3:18; James 1:23-25.

Section 6: The Ministry of Reconciliation

• Main Points:
  • Believers are called to speak words of reconciliation, bringing people closer to God.
  • It’s crucial for believers to encourage and build up others, rather than judging or pushing them away.
  • Mature believers focus on mending and fostering relationships with God in others.
  • Scriptures Used: 2 Corinthians 5:19.