A Vision For Lifelong Growth
Sermon Summary
This message explored the stages of spiritual maturity through 1 John 2:12-14, where the apostle John addresses three groups: little children, young men, and fathers. Using the analogy of parenting and child development, the pastor illustrated how spiritual growth follows recognizable patterns and stages. Just as physical development has predictable milestones, our spiritual journey has landmarks that help us understand where we are and where God is taking us.
The sermon emphasized that understanding these stages helps us live with wisdom, recognize God’s invitations for growth, avoid pitfalls, and progress from strength to strength. Each stage has unique characteristics, needs, contributions, and challenges, and recognizing our current stage serves as our “spiritual GPS” for continued maturity in Christ.
Key Definition
Life on Life Discipleship: Relationships that are intentional and focused on growing as lifelong obedient followers of Jesus who in turn help others to do the same.
Scripture Passage: 1 John 2:12-14
“I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.
I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.
I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one.
I write to you, dear children, because you know the Father.
I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.
I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.”
Discussion Questions
Spiritual Stage Assessment: Based on the three stages described (little children, young men, fathers), where do you see yourself currently in your spiritual journey? What characteristics from that stage resonate with you?
Growth Markers: What are some specific ways you’ve grown spiritually over the past year? What “milestones” can you identify in your journey with Jesus?
Stage-Specific Needs: Looking at your current spiritual stage, what are the key needs and challenges you’re facing? How might understanding these help you grow?
Spiritual GPS: The pastor mentioned this teaching as your “spiritual GPS.” How does having language and landmarks for spiritual growth help you navigate your relationship with Jesus?
Little Children Stage: If you identify with this stage, what does it mean practically to “know the Father” and experience the reality of forgiveness? How can you grow in spiritual stability?
Young Men/Women Stage: For those in this stage, what does it look like to have “God’s word abide in you”? How are you learning to overcome spiritual opposition and embrace discipline?
Fathers/Mothers Stage: If you’re in this mature stage, how are you using your spiritual depth to nurture others? What legacy are you building through discipleship?
Avoiding Pitfalls: Each stage has potential pitfalls mentioned in the sermon. What are some spiritual dangers you need to be aware of in your current stage?
Vision for Growth: How does having a vision for spiritual maturity motivate you? What would it look like for you to progress to the next stage of spiritual development?
Multigenerational Family: How can our church better function as a spiritual family where different stages support and strengthen each other? What role can you play in this?
Take Action: Join the 40 Days of Discipleship
As our church family embarks on this summer focus on life-on-life discipleship, we invite you to join the 40 Days of Discipleship devotional journey. Each morning you’ll receive:
A scripture passage
A fresh worship song
A guided prayer
Prompts to help you listen to the Holy Spirit and abide throughout the day
Whether you’re beginning your journey with Jesus or have been walking with Him for years, these devotionals will help you build your foundation in Him and learn what it means to make disciples.
To sign up: Scan the QR code provided by your group leader or visit our church website. The devotionals start tomorrow morning and run from June 2nd through July 11th.
Group Challenge: Consider going through these devotionals together as a small group, sharing insights and encouraging one another in your discipleship journey.
“I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.” – 1 John 2:14
