Dr. John Snyder has spent the last two weeks looking at John Newton’s seasons of the Christian life, which he likens to a growing stalk of corn. The Christian life starts as a blade sprouting from the soil. Then there is a small, immature, but very real fruit showing. Lastly, the season we are discussing this week is the mature Christian life. Each stage has its distinguishing marks, and this season is marked by contemplation.

The mature believer learns and grows not only by studying Scripture and applying it to his life but also by looking at how God providentially moves, convicts, and grows other believers. This growth of wisdom and maturity comes with a warning. The mature believer must beware the temptation to think of himself as more powerful in himself. It is actually the opposite. The believer is more dependent on Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

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You can read this week's letter here:

You can read next week’s letter here:

Show Notes:

Grace in the Ear:

https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/grace-in-the-ear 

Grace in the Blade:

https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/grace-in-the-blade

Letter to a Student of Divinity:

https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/extract-of-a-letter-to-a-student-of-divinity

The Works of John Newton:

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/works-john-newton/

John Newton Introductions from Behold Your God: The Weight of Majesty

https://youtu.be/m9riTq53Vg4

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