From Milk to Solid Food: Growing in Spiritual Maturity
In Hebrews chapter 5, the author addresses the constant practice needed by believers to sharpen our spiritual skills and gain the power of discernment to distinguish good from evil.
Often in this epistle, the language is encouraging. Here, however, the tone is somewhat scolding as the recipients are rebuked for their lack of maturity.
It does not seem that the believers in this audience are recent converts considered to be “baby Christians.” Hebrews 5:12 even asserts that they should already be exhibiting a faith deep enough to position them to instruct others: “For though by this time you ought to be teachers…” The author of Hebrews recommends a refresher course in the basics of the faith for his readers.
These spiritual fundamentals are described as “ . . . the basic principles of the oracles of God.” Then they are summed up with one simple word: milk.
Just as infants eventually transition from ingesting only milk to eating solid foods as their bodies grow and their needs change, followers of Christ are to “grow up” in their faith, both in learning and in practice. Such growth occurs as we acquire both information and experience, sharpening our spiritual skills and becoming mature and able to move on to solid food.
Have you graduated to a diet of solid spiritual food? This is a sign of maturity in the Lord.
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