Dimensions of Godly Growth

Dimensions of Godly Growth Once a baby is born it is quite enjoyable to watch it grow over the course of time. Loving parents have a grave concern if a child does not grow. Growth is fully expected. The same holds true for when a spiritual birth occurs. The Word of God terms those who truly repent and believe in Jesus Christ as those who have been born again of the water [baptism; as most scholars agree with this] and [Holy] of the Spirit. (John 3:5; Acts 10:36-48; 19:1-5; Romans 6:1-5; Galatians 3:27; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 3:20-21). And just like physical life, we also see we should be growing spiritually. We find a number of patterns for spiritual growth throughout much of the Holy Bible, one of which is Romans 5:3-5 where we see four dimensions of godly growth. I. The Depth Of Trials 3a “And not only so, b ut we also glory in tribulations also…” Trials come in various forms, like, but not limited to, persecution, daily matters, domestic matters, and times of crisis. Sadly, to many without Christ these troubles can be devastating. In Christ, they can be a means to propel us to become better and not bitter. Troubles also vary in amount and frequency. Thilipsis is the Greek word {1} here for “tribulation.” In the King James Version it is translated as tribulation, affliction, trouble, anguish, persecution, burdened, and to be afflicted. It can mean a pressing, pressing together, or pressure. It is used metaphorically for oppression, affliction, tribulation, distress, and straits. When those in Christ respond correctly to trouble it will cause them to glorify God by

Dimensions of Godly Growth

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