Growing In Christ Beyond Church Attendance Series

As Christians, it's easy to get caught up in the routine of attending church services, participating in fellowship events, and engaging in spiritual discussions. However, attending church and growing in Christ are two distinct concepts. While church attendance is essential for spiritual nourishment and community, it's possible to group up in church without truly growing in Christ.

The Great Commission: A Call to Discipleship

In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus gives us the Great Commission, instructing us to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." This commission emphasizes the importance of discipleship and spiritual growth.

The Difference Between Attendance and Intimacy

Attending church is about being present in a physical location, while growing in Christ requires a deeper level of intimacy with God. It's possible to attend church regularly without:

Reading and applying Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us that Scripture is "God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." Are you regularly reading and applying God's Word to your life?

Practicing spiritual disciplines: Spiritual disciplines like prayer, fasting, and meditation help us cultivate a deeper relationship with God. Are you prioritizing these practices in your daily life?

Serving and loving others: Jesus taught us to "love our neighbors as ourselves" (Mark 12:31). Are you actively serving and loving those around you, both within and outside the church?

Biblical Examples of Spiritual Growth

The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who grew in their faith, including:

The apostle Paul: Despite being a zealous Pharisee, Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus transformed his life. He went on to become one of the most influential Christian leaders in history (Acts 9:1-31).

The disciples: Jesus' closest followers began as ordinary men, but through their time with Jesus, they grew in faith and became bold witnesses for Christ (Matthew 4:18-22, Acts 2:14-40).

The woman at the well: This woman's encounter with Jesus led to a profound transformation, as she went from being an outcast to becoming a witness for Christ in her community (John 4:1-42).

Practical Steps for Growing in Christ

So, how can you move beyond mere church attendance and grow in Christ? Here are some practical steps:

Develop a daily devotional practice: Set aside time each day to read Scripture, pray, and reflect on your relationship with God.

Engage in spiritual disciplines: Regularly practice spiritual disciplines like fasting, meditation, and service to others.

Find a spiritual mentor or accountability partner: Surround yourself with people who can encourage and support your spiritual growth.

Serve others: Look for opportunities to serve and love those around you, both within and outside the church.

Conclusion

Growing in Christ requires a deeper level of intimacy with God, beyond mere church attendance. By reading and applying Scripture, practicing spiritual disciplines, serving and loving others, and following the examples of biblical characters, you can cultivate a richer, more meaningful relationship with God. Remember, spiritual growth is a lifelong journey, and it's never too late to start growing in Christ.