Definition and Qualities
A Mature Believer is an imperfect individual who has been consistent in the practice of the basics of the faith (e.g. daily prayer, daily Bible and extra-Biblical reading, weekly Bible study, Christian fellowship, godly living, and demonstration of the Fruit of the Spirit, etc..) for a decade or more, has been (or is currently) involved in ministry, AND is someone who has made a profound impact on lives of many people for the sake of Christ's Kingdom. In other words, a Mature Believer is not just someone who attends church services and does good deeds. Rather, they are individuals who have pointed numerous people toward Christ - by their words, their actions, their behavior, and their consistent daily testimony - have worked diligently in His Kingdom, and have worked hard on living a life that pleases the Lord through godly living!
Additional descriptions:
- • A lengthy, but not perfect, history of the daily disciplines. These include the consistent practice of controlling their tongue and speech, controlling their thoughts and emotions, controlling their finances and manner of living, as well as many other spiritual disciplines.
- • Ready for what God has next — even if it involves inconvenience, discomfort, suffering and death. They are ready to follow Christ wherever He leads because they understand that this life is temporary and that the afterlife lasts forever!
- • Sound in many judgments; highly knowledgeable and experienced in various spiritual matters.
- • Insightful — not just opinionated. They can back up their words with Scriptures and numerous personal experiences!
- • Reliable and responsible. They understand the importance of commitments and follow through - as well as how they impact others who are watching and listening. These are mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23.
- • Has worked on and is still working on the Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control).These are mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23.
- • Has a long history of sacrificial giving — of time, money, work, talents, and other resources.
- • Is teachable. Even in their maturity, they remain open to learning and growth - irrespective of who's teaching them.
- • Some may have a personality that others find rough around the edges. Don't think Christians should be like this? If so, you haven't studied the Scriptures enough. Take the time to study John the Baptist, Jesus, Paul, and others.
Focuses
Here are some key focuses for Mature Believers:
- • Deepening one's faith — through challenging books and higher levels of trust that can make life uncomfortable. For example, I remember when God's Spirit prompted me to empty my bank account in Church one morning (not for the church but for a specific ministry). I also remember a time when He prompted me to empty my wallet with a homeless person. I have several of these memories!
- • Surrendering everything to Him — job, car, hobbies, sleep, security, comfort, conveniences.
- • Making every moment of life matter for the sake of the Kingdom.
- • Teaching and discipling others through hands-on, face-to-face teaching/training.
In the coming months, I will add more to this section. For now, I leave this here.
If you have questions or comments, email me here.
In His Name,
Roy