Series Details
God’s Word describes the body of believers as “brothers and sisters” and “co-heirs” with Jesus, and when Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He began by saying, “Our Father.” Why?
We’re a family in Christ. And like any family, God’s family is filled with people in all stages of spiritual development: newborn believers, those still adolescent in their walk, and the spiritually mature.
Join Chuck Swindoll as he takes an in-depth look at the stages of growth that characterize the Christian walk.
The Bible frequently uses family language to describe the church—we are brothers, sisters, and co-heirs with Christ, under the care of “Our Father.” Like any healthy family, God’s family is composed of individuals at different stages of development. In this 16-part series, Chuck Swindoll examines the spiritual parallels to physical growth, identifying the characteristics of newborn believers, spiritual adolescents, and mature disciples. By understanding these “ages and stages,” we can better navigate our own growth and support others as we all strive toward the ultimate goal of Christlike maturity.
Analysis of a Crop Failure
Sermon Summary Jesus, the master teacher, often used parables to illustrate deep spiritual truths. This opening message analyzes the Parable of the Sower, which Chuck calls an “analysis of a crop failure.” We learn that spiritual growth depends heavily on the condition of the heart—the “soil” in which the Word is planted. By identifying the obstacles to growth, such as the hardness of the path or the thorns of worldly worry, we can prepare ourselves to become fruitful soil for God’s Kingdom.
Key Facts & Themes
- The Master Teacher: Exploring Jesus’ use of imagery to explain spiritual receptivity.
- The Role of the Heart: Understanding why some “crops” fail while others thrive.
Primary Scripture Reference
- Mark 4:1–20
Birth and Infancy: Survival Basics
Sermon Summary Every spiritual journey begins with a new birth. This message focuses on the “survival basics” for newborn believers. Just as physical infants require constant care and pure milk, spiritual infants need the foundational truths of God’s Word to survive and begin to grow. Chuck discusses the vulnerability of this stage and the necessity of a nurturing community to protect and feed those who are new to the faith.
Key Facts & Themes
- The New Birth: The essential starting point for entering God’s family.
- Spiritual Nourishment: Why foundational doctrine is “milk” for the infant soul.
Look . . . I’m Walking!
Sermon Summary There is a thrilling moment in every believer’s life when they take their first stable steps in the faith. This message explores the transition from infancy to early childhood. We learn that “walking” in the Spirit involves a new level of coordination between hearing the Word and applying it. Chuck encourages those who are beginning to find their spiritual footing, emphasizing the importance of consistency and dependence on the Father’s hand.
Key Facts & Themes
- Active Application: Moving from passive hearing to active walking in truth.
- Spiritual Coordination: Learning to balance grace and obedience in daily life.
Adolescents in Adult Bodies
Sermon Summary One of the most challenging stages in God’s family is spiritual adolescence. This message addresses the phenomenon of “adolescents in adult bodies”—believers who have been in the church for years but still exhibit the volatility and self-centeredness of a teenager. Chuck discusses the symptoms of spiritual immaturity and the necessity of pushing through this awkward stage to reach a stable, selfless maturity.
Key Facts & Themes
- Symptoms of Immaturity: Identifying the “childish things” that hinder spiritual progress.
- The Stagnation Trap: Why some believers remain stuck in a state of perpetual adolescence.
When Peter Pan Comes to Church
Sermon Summary “Peter Pan” is the boy who never wanted to grow up, and sadly, his spirit is often found in the church. This message explores the resistance many feel toward becoming spiritually mature. Chuck warns against the desire to remain in a state of “carefree” irresponsibility. We learn that true maturity involves taking on the burdens of others and accepting the responsibilities that come with being a seasoned member of God’s family.
Key Facts & Themes
- The Fear of Responsibility: Why we often prefer the ease of infancy over the weight of maturity.
- The Call to Grow Up: Understanding that spiritual maturity is a mandate, not an option.
Growing-Up Goals for Diligent Disciples
Sermon Summary The series concludes by outlining the “growing-up goals” for every diligent disciple. Chuck summarizes the hallmarks of a mature believer: a stable walk, a selfless heart, and a deep, intimate relationship with the Father. We are encouraged to keep pressing forward, realizing that growth is a lifelong process that requires diligence, grace, and a constant reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Key Facts & Themes
- Hallmarks of Maturity: Identifying the visible traits of a seasoned saint.
- Diligent Discipleship: The intentional effort required to reach spiritual goals.
