1 JOHN 2:13
Stages of spiritual growth (2)The second stage in spiritual growth is adolescence. John writes, ‘…young men…you are strong, and the Word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one’ (1 John 2:14 NAS). But if you’ve ever had teenagers, you know that the transition from adolescence into adulthood can be a bumpy ride. Teenagers clash with their parents and other authority figures because they’re moving from dependence to independence. They wrestle with conflicting feelings of wanting their freedom, yet not really wanting it; especially if mum and dad are still paying the bills. They chafe at observing curfews, particularly when their friends don’t have to. They don’t like getting approval for the cinema, dates, parties, dress codes or using the family car. They especially hate hearing, ‘As long as you’re under my roof you’ll live by my rules. When you get your own family you can make up your own rules.’ The truth is, a spiritual adolescent doesn’t know as much as he or she thinks they know. They need guidance, support, and correction from more mature Christians so they can learn how to avoid falling into the enemy’s trap. They need instruction and training in God’s Word to make them strong and keep them battle-ready at all times. And they need opportunities to serve, discover and develop their gifts, and gain experience. So, how can you tell when you’ve outgrown your spiritual adolescence and begun moving into adulthood? John answers, ‘…you are strong… the Word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.’