“Though by this time ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe.” — Hebrews 5:12-13, NKJV

We know of course that the writer of Hebrews is not referring to physical food and milk, and neither is he speaking of human infants; this writer is using food and age as metaphors in this lesson on Spiritual growth. The central thought here concerns the lack of growth in the Spirit that must characterize the life of a believer in Jesus Christ. It is painfully evident that too many “Christians” fall into the category of “babes” as Hebrews declares in the above text.

Using another analogy, these folk are “root bound.” They do not reach out beyond their tiny spheres of interaction in any serious attempt to grow. In effect, their roots do not spread. Like a plant in a too small pot, they are prevented from realizing any growth because of the tiny environment that they have chosen for themselves. This condition is forced upon the plant, but chosen by those who do not seek opportunities to grow. Wanting only to hear and know the basic tenets of Christianity again and again, they never rise to the level of leaders, and are a burden upon the Church as a whole. Always needing basic instruction but never able to provide leadership to others. I speak here of those who are capable but not willing to grow.

This refusal to grow is one of the greatest problems in church today — many come to the services, give generously, and even work when asked, but draw the line at building up their own personal relationship with God. Thinking that what we do is sufficient, and that personal study and meditation is too much for us to undertake. All Christians could benefit from more time spent seeking God’s presence through regular study, prayer, and meditation.

Come on guys, let’s begin to seek the Lord, study His word, and grow toward maturity in Christ Jesus. The future of our families may just depend on our Spiritual growth to jumpstart their own relationship with God.

Rev. Bobby Thornhill is a retired pastor.