Moving Beyond Spiritual Milk Series

MOVING BEYOND SPIRITUAL MILK

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 3:1-2 “And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.”

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 5:12-14, Ephesians 4:14-15, Colossians 1:28, 2 Peter 3:18, Philippians 3:12-14

INTRODUCTION:

Spiritual growth is not optional for the believer; it is a divine mandate. When Paul addressed the Corinthians, he expressed disappointment that they were still spiritual infants, unable to digest the deeper truths of God's Word. This shows that there is an expectation for believers to grow and mature in their walk with God. The process of moving from spiritual milk to spiritual meat is one that every Christian must intentionally pursue.

Many believers are content to remain at the elementary level of faith—satisfied with salvation and church attendance, but lacking deeper understanding, discipline, and spiritual engagement. This stagnancy hinders the work of God in their lives and in the Church as a whole. Immaturity leads to division, carnality, and spiritual vulnerability. God is calling His people to move past the basics and into the depths of His wisdom, character, and purpose.

This message is a call to maturity. It is a challenge to examine where we are spiritually and make the necessary steps to grow. Just as a child must transition from milk to solid food, so must the believer transition from spiritual infancy to maturity. Only then can we walk in the fullness of God's plan for our lives and become effective ambassadors of Christ.

1. SPIRITUAL GROWTH IS GOD’S EXPECTATION FOR EVERY BELIEVER

God does not expect His children to remain in a state of infancy; He desires growth and maturity.

a) Saved to Grow

Salvation is the starting point, not the destination (1 Peter 2:2).

b) Growth Reflects God’s Image

Spiritual growth helps us conform to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).

c) Immaturity Grieves the Spirit

Staying immature can hinder the Holy Spirit’s work in us (Ephesians 4:30).

d) Maturity Leads to Responsibility

God entrusts more to those who are spiritually mature (Luke 16:10).

Biblical Example: Jesus grew in wisdom and stature (Luke 2:52), showing the pattern of growth even from childhood.

2. SPIRITUAL MILK IS FOR BEGINNERS, BUT MEAT IS FOR THE MATURE

There is a difference between foundational truths and deeper revelations.

a) Milk Represents Basic Teachings

Teachings on salvation, faith, and repentance are foundational (Hebrews 6:1-2).

b) Meat Demands Discernment

Strong meat belongs to those who have exercised spiritual senses (Hebrews 5:14).

c) Mature Believers Handle Deeper Assignments

God reveals mysteries to those who are ready (1 Corinthians 2:10).

d) Spiritual Diet Affects Spiritual Strength

A believer’s growth is determined by the Word they consume (Job 23:12).

Biblical Example: The Berean Christians searched the Scriptures daily (Acts 17:11), showing a hunger for depth.

3. IMMATURITY HINDERS UNITY AND EFFECTIVENESS IN THE CHURCH

Spiritual babies often cause strife, confusion, and stunted growth within the body.

a) Carnality is a Sign of Immaturity

Paul rebuked the Corinthians for envy and division (1 Corinthians 3:3).

b) Immaturity Limits Ministry Impact

Baby Christians struggle with responsibility and accountability (1 Timothy 3:6).

c) The Church Needs Mature Leaders

God uses mature believers to lead others to growth (Ephesians 4:11-13).

d) Unity is Built on Maturity

Strong believers foster unity and peace (Colossians 3:14).

Biblical Example: The early Church grew when believers matured and took up responsibility (Acts 6:1-7).

4. SPIRITUAL MATURITY REQUIRES INTENTIONAL DISCIPLINE

Growth is not automatic—it requires effort, commitment, and spiritual discipline.

a) Study the Word Diligently

The Word of God is the food that fuels growth (2 Timothy 2:15).

b) Practice Spiritual Exercises

Prayer, fasting, and obedience help in growth (1 Timothy 4:7-8).

c) Accept Correction and Mentorship

Maturity is developed through guidance and correction (Proverbs 3:11-12).

d) Put Off the Old Nature

Growth requires shedding carnality and embracing new life (Ephesians 4:22-24).

Biblical Example: Timothy grew under Paul's mentorship and became a strong leader (2 Timothy 1:5-6).

5. SPIRITUAL MATURITY POSITIONS YOU FOR KINGDOM IMPACT

Those who grow spiritually are positioned for greater usefulness in God’s Kingdom.

a) Mature Believers Reproduce

They make disciples and raise others (Matthew 28:19-20).

b) They Possess Kingdom Authority

Maturity grants access to greater spiritual authority (Luke 10:19).

c) They Can Endure Trials

Mature believers are not tossed by storms (James 1:2-4).

d) They Live with Purpose

They pursue God's agenda, not personal ambition (Galatians 2:20).

Biblical Example: Paul moved from persecutor to mature apostle, transforming countless lives (Acts 9:20-22).

CONCLUSION:

Remaining on spiritual milk is dangerous for any believer who desires to live a victorious and meaningful Christian life. God is calling His people to arise, grow up, and walk in maturity. There are deeper truths, higher responsibilities, and greater blessings that await those who choose to grow.