Spiritual Gifts And Christian Maturity

SPIRITUAL GIFTS AND CHRISTIAN MATURITY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 4:13-16

Supporting Texts: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Romans 12:4-8, 1 Peter 4:10-11, Hebrews 5:12-14, Colossians 1:28

INTRODUCTION:

Spiritual gifts are divine endowments given by the Holy Spirit to every believer for the edification of the body of Christ. These gifts, when properly used, are not signs of spiritual superiority, but tools for building unity, maturity, and growth in the Church. Many believers pursue gifts without understanding the responsibility that comes with them—to grow in maturity and serve others in love.

Christian maturity is not measured by how many gifts we manifest, but by how deeply we love, how faithfully we serve, and how steadily we grow in Christlikeness. A mature Christian is not just gifted but grounded—one who knows the truth, lives the truth, and builds others up in truth.

This message will help us understand that spiritual gifts and Christian maturity are not separate journeys but are interconnected paths that must be walked together to fulfil God’s purpose for our lives and the Church.

1. SPIRITUAL GIFTS ARE GIVEN TO BUILD THE BODY

Spiritual gifts are not for personal gain or glory, but for the strengthening and growth of the Church. Every believer has a role to play in the health and function of the body of Christ.

a) Gifts are given by grace, not merit (1 Corinthians 12:4-7):

God distributes gifts as He wills, not because we earn them, but to equip us for service in His Kingdom.

b) Each gift serves a unique function (Romans 12:4-5):

Just as every part of the body has its own purpose, every believer’s gift adds value to the collective mission.

c) Gifts must operate in love (1 Corinthians 13:1-2):

Without love, even the most powerful spiritual gifts become noise and are of no eternal value.

d) Gifts reveal God's presence and purpose (1 Peter 4:10-11):

When we use our gifts to serve, we become stewards of God’s grace and reveal His glory to the world.

Biblical Example: In Acts 6:1-7, the early Church appointed spirit-filled men to serve the needs of widows, showing how gifts of service strengthened and unified the church.

2. SPIRITUAL GIFTS MUST BE BALANCED WITH GROWTH IN CHARACTER

Spiritual maturity is about becoming more like Christ in our conduct, not just being gifted in the Spirit. Gifts are powerful, but without the fruit of the Spirit, they can become destructive.

a) Gifts without maturity can lead to pride (1 Corinthians 3:1-3):

Immaturity causes division, jealousy, and self-centredness, even when gifts are present.

b) Character reflects true spiritual growth (Galatians 5:22-23):

The fruit of the Spirit is evidence that a believer is growing in Christlikeness and not just chasing experiences.

c) Mature believers build others up (Ephesians 4:29):

They use their words and actions to strengthen the weak, encourage the discouraged, and bring unity.

d) Growth requires discipline and time (Hebrews 5:12-14):

Just like physical development, spiritual maturity comes from constant use and a hunger for deeper truths.

Biblical Example: Paul mentored Timothy, not just to stir up his spiritual gift, but to be an example in conduct, love, and faith (1 Timothy 4:12-14).

3. MATURITY BRINGS UNITY AND STABILITY TO THE CHURCH

When spiritual gifts operate in mature believers, the Church becomes united, strong, and effective in its mission.

a) Maturity leads to unity in the faith (Ephesians 4:13):

As believers grow, they align more closely with Christ and one another, avoiding divisions and confusion.

b) Immaturity opens doors to deception (Ephesians 4:14):

The spiritually immature are easily swayed by false doctrines and emotional teachings.

c) Mature believers speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15):

They don’t compromise on truth but communicate it with grace, compassion, and the aim to build.

d) Every member contributes to church growth (Ephesians 4:16):

A mature, well-functioning body grows in love, strength, and effectiveness as each part does its work.

Biblical Example: The early church in Acts 2:42-47 grew in numbers and strength because of their devotion, maturity, and unity.

4. SPIRITUAL MATURITY MAKES US FRUITFUL IN PURPOSE

God desires that we not only receive His gifts but also fulfil His purpose for our lives by growing into the fullness of Christ.

a) Gifts help us function, maturity helps us finish (2 Peter 1:5-8):

A life of continual growth ensures we are fruitful and never stagnant in our calling.

b) Maturity enables us to endure trials (James 1:2-4):

Spiritual depth equips us to withstand challenges without giving up or compromising.

c) A mature believer multiplies influence (Colossians 1:28):

Maturity turns us into disciple-makers who help others grow in their walk with God.

d) God's goal is our full transformation (Romans 8:29):

Spiritual gifts are a means to the end of becoming fully conformed to the image of Christ.

Biblical Example: Jesus not only ministered in power but grew in wisdom, stature, and favour, showing a balance of gifting and maturity (Luke 2:52).