Steps of Growth
In A Christian
Layman’s copy
In General Order
Look up each scripture reference and write below it the phrase or wording That seems relevant or supports the matching step. For best results, complete scripture study for one step before reading or writing for the next one, do not go thru and write all verses for John throughout or all verses for any one book, study one step at a time. In doing this you will learn and consider where you are in your walk with the Lord, and the Spirit will impress upon you the decisions and actions to take for personal growth.
Drawn/Invited: John 6:44; Acts 2:37; 1 Peter 1:2; Rev 22:17
Salvation: John 3:3; John 10:9; Acts 4:12; Romans 10:9; Romans 10:13
Public Profession/Baptism: Acts 10:44-48; Romans 10:11; 1 Peter 3:15; 1 Peter 3:21
“It is my opinion and expectation as a pastor, that when someone is saved or decides to recommit their life to the Lord, they should declare it publicly.” Shane Thompson
Separation 2 Corinthians 6:17; Ephesians 5:11; Acts 2:40; Luke 9:23-26
Upon salvation and devotion to the Lord, there will be a restriction in the personal spirit of a believer and a state of being held back from free or open communication when present among nonbelievers at the workplace, school, family gatherings, or social events. It will include distancing ourselves and parting ways temporarily or permanently and will often be recognized by nonbelievers to which we testify with meekness and humility (not shame) of our salvation and devotion to Christ. To not honor such separation is to grieve the Holy Spirit.
Discipleship/Bible Study: John 8:31; 1 Cor. 1:5; 1 Peter 2:2, 3
Walking in the Spirit: Romans 8:1; Romans 8:14; 1 Cor. 2:10, 14; 1 Cor. 3:1-3; Galatians 5:16,17
Walking in the Spirit is a necessary activity defining our routine and practice after salvation that is seldom mentioned or taught and is not understood among believers.
Worked Out/Firmed up: 1 Cor. 11:28; 1 Cor. 1:6; 2 Cor. 13:5; Philippians 2:12; 2 Timothy 1:12
Resolved Commitment to God: Psalm 57:7; Psalm 61:2, 4, 8; Psalm 112:7, 8; 1 Peter 4:19; Philippians 3:8-15
Deliberate Availability to God: Luke 12:35,36; Luke 17:7-10; 2 Tim 2:21; Titus 3:1; Isaiah 6:8
Commitment to God and availability are distinct items yet should complement each other. It is possible to feel committed in our heart through spiritual routine, although without expecting or experiencing the Spirit’s impression, our attitude can become that the Lord must simply ask, and we will respond; “Call and I’ll come running!” However, the mature servant’s heart is to present ourselves as being ready and expecting instruction.
Involved and Established with Other Believers: Romans 12:10; 1 Cor 12:12-20; 1 Cor 12:25, 26; Ephesians 4:11-16; Eph 6:18; Phil. 2:1-4; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 3:13; 1 John 2:10; 1 John3:14
Perfecting Ourselves: Ps 139:23, 24; 2 Cor 7:1 1; Peter 1:22; 1 John 3:3; Phil 3:10-15
Receiving Gifts: Romans 1:11; Romans 11:29; Romans 12:6-8; 1 Cor 1:7; 1 Cor 12:7
Serve, Work: Matthew 5:16; John 4:35, 36; 1 Cor 9:19; Phil 1:27
Mentor: 1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 2:2; Titus 1:4; Titus 2:2-6
If we look back and examine the last calendar year, we should identify specific growth, routine experiences in the Lord, and fruit (results) produced in His service and for His kingdom. We then ask ourselves if such service is adequate or consistent and then adjust. Are we an influence upon others to pose inquiry and find their place in this faith? If not, we should endeavor to demonstrate growth through this year beyond the last.
Philippians 3:14,15 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in anything ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
Additional Resource links:
Self-Check to Grow
Steps of Growth in a Christian (Pastor)
Survey
Exactly Where Are You