Walking in Spiritual Maturity (First Love Fire Part 6)
As followers of Jesus, we’re called not only to believe in Him but to grow up in Him. In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, there’s a clear progression from understanding our identity in Christ to walking that identity out in maturity. Pastor Chris Fletcher unpacks this transition in Ephesians 4 and calls us into a deeper place of growth, character, and purpose.
Identity Before Instruction
The first three chapters of Ephesians are rich with truth about who we are in Christ—chosen, adopted, redeemed, and sealed with the Spirit (Ephesians 1–3, ESV). Notably, Paul doesn’t give a single command in those first chapters. He spends all his words helping the church grasp the incredible gospel reality of their new identity.
Then, in Ephesians 4, there’s a shift: "I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called…" (Ephesians 4:1, ESV). Paul moves from who we are to how we live. Instruction follows identity. The Christian life is not about earning God’s favor—it’s about living out the grace we've already received.
The Foundation of Godly Character
Paul's first exhortation to the church is to walk in humility, gentleness, patience, and love (Ephesians 4:2–3). These are not just nice Christian virtues—they are the character of Jesus Himself. Before God equips us for ministry, He shapes us in His image.
Our culture often prioritizes talent and gifting, but Jesus is deeply concerned with our character. Gifting without godly character is dangerous. But when humility and gentleness are the foundation, our gifts can build up the body rather than tear it down.
Character Before Gifting, Gifting Toward Maturity
After laying the foundation of character, Paul introduces the gifts that Christ has given the church: apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers (Ephesians 4:11, ESV). These roles are given to equip the saints for ministry—not just within the church walls, but in every sphere of life.
Whether you’re in healthcare, business, education, or at home raising children, ministry is about serving God and furthering His kingdom. As Paul says, “until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood…” (Ephesians 4:13, ESV). Ministry exists not for self-promotion but for the maturing of the whole body of Christ.
Letting Go of Spiritual Infancy
Paul’s desire is clear: that we would “no longer be children” (Ephesians 4:14, ESV). The Greek word used here speaks of an infant—unable to speak or stand on their own. While there’s grace for new believers to grow, the call is to move forward.
Spiritual maturity means moving past the things that keep us stuck. Gossip, unforgiveness, hidden sin, and addiction are not just personal issues—they affect the entire body. When one part isn’t working properly, the whole body suffers (Ephesians 4:16, ESV).
This is not about shame—it’s about loving correction from a good Father. Conviction leads to life; shame leads to despair. God’s call is always an invitation into more freedom, more wholeness, and more fruit.
A Community Growing Together
Paul closes this section of Ephesians with a powerful image of the church: “Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ...” (Ephesians 4:15, ESV). Spiritual maturity is not a solo journey. It happens in the context of community, through discipleship, accountability, and shared purpose.
We need each other—the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds, and the teachers. And we need the Spirit of God shaping our character, refining our gifts, and leading us into maturity.
Reflection Questions
What areas of your life is the Holy Spirit highlighting that need to grow in godly character?
How have you viewed spiritual maturity—more about knowledge, gifting, or Christlike character?
Where might God be inviting you to take a step forward in serving others with your gifts?