Stifled Christian Growth

Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 3:1, “And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.”

Thought to Glow: Don’t let anything stifle your growth in Christ.  

Passage: 1 Corinthians 3

The Church at Corinth was one of the worldliest churches that we know of during the first century. They had allowed things to creep into their lives that stifled their Christian growth. Because of this, they were known as babies and carnal Christians. As you read this passage, look at what can stifle your Christian growth.

In verses 4-7, spiritual growth is stifled when we elevate men to a place meant for God. This church was arguing who was the best preacher, instead of focusing on God.

In verses 8-9, spiritual growth is stifled when we fail to serve God. Paul told the church to labor together. When we serve God we don’t worry about petty things that stifle growth.

In verses 10-17, spiritual growth is stifled when we live for self. God’s Word says we are His temple and we build our lives using His materials (gold, silver, and precious stones), not our own (wood, hay, and stubble). This means we are to follow and obey God’s Word and God’s commands, not live after the lusts of our flesh.

In verses 18-20, spiritual growth is stifled when we see ourselves to wise. God wants us to be humble servants, faithfully living to please Him. 

Today, ask God to show you any area of your life that is stifling your Christian growth. Then, by God’s grace, seek to change that about yourself so that you will grow in your faith and build your life using God’s materials.