One of the clearest evidences of being a mature Christian is an increased awareness and knowledge for the need to be in Christ, and not to be to ourselves. When we have an increased need that goes beyond our self, an increasing need that goes beyond our self-confidence, so confidence is in our Lord and the Holy Spirit; then our self-confidence becomes rooted and dependent in Christ working through us. So we are not self-driven but Christ driven (II Cor. 4:16-18; II Tim. 2:15-24; I Pet. 5). Thus resulting i bn our will to be in total surrender to God's will as the driving force for our existence. For us to grow we must surrender our will, desires, plans upon our Lord Jesus Christ. The municipal center of the Christian life is Jesus Christ (Col. 3:4).
We must have a firm, forward and moving commitment and trust in His work (Rom.12:1; Gal. 2:20, Phil.1:20-21 ).
The believer has support from other mature believers (Matt. 28:20; John 15:5)
Has purpose, direction, and is filled with Christ's power (Eph. 3:20; Phil. 4:13; Rom.12:1-2).
Is discipled in the gifts of the spirit (I Cor.12).
All in: Word of God (Matt. 4:4; I Pet. 2:2).
Prayer and praise (Phil. 4:4-7; Col. 3:16-17).
Love (I Cor.13; Mark 12:28-34; John 3:16).
And Fellowship (John 13:34-35; I Cor.12:12-21; Eph. 4:15-16).
In Christ, all that comes to us is for God's glory, purpose, and our good. (Rom. 8:28). He seeks to bring us closer to Himself by His love, joy, and peace (Rom. 5:1-5) that we may share His love with those around us to convey God's purpose for His people (John 17:20-24; Acts 2:24; 44-47).
© 1992, 2001 R.J. Krejcir, Schaeffer Institute of Church Leadership, www.churchleadership.org/
