October 22, 2023 . . .

In I John 2:12-14 we are given three stages of Christian growth. Sanctification is recognizing that our redemption has been accomplished by Christ and that the power of the Holy Spirit makes it real in our lives. The three groups addressed are little children, young men, and fathers. This does not pertain to actual age. It reflects the stages of growth as a Christian. The church needs all three. Little children are those who have their first encounter with Jesus, the Bible, and know that they have been adopted into God’s family. Young men are those who understand that they can fight evil through Christ and that they are becoming stronger as believers, but are not yet in the “father” stage. Fathers are those who have reached the highest stage of their Christian life, have known Christ from the beginning, and who have fought the fight with Jesus as their strength. We are all fighting the ways of the world. But Jesus has already won this battle against evil. He told us to “take up your cross daily and follow me.” We must say “No” to the world and “Yes” to God through our journey in life as Christians. Questions to ask yourself . . . Am I growing? What stage of growth am I in?