6 signs of spiritual immaturity and 3 ways to you can move past it
Spiritual maturity. That phrase is thrown around a lot in Christian churches. But what does it really mean to be spiritually mature? Well, let’s take it down to the basics. What is immaturity? According to Merriam-Webster, to be immature is defined as “lacking complete growth, differentiation, or development.” Spiritual immaturity is often associated with new Christians or those who have not grown in their faith and relationship with Christ.
Signs of spiritual immaturity
Perhaps you’ve heard those who are spiritually immature referred to as baby Christians, meaning that they are very new or young in their faith — much like a newborn baby or toddler. Or, maybe, you’ve been a Christian a while now and you’ve been told you're spiritually immature or you are just wondering if you are. Just like there are signs of spiritual maturity, there are also signs of spiritual immaturity. Here are some symptoms of spiritual immaturity:
Intense criticism comes easily to you. Everyone's a critic nowadays — from social media influencers to your co-workers to your friends. Being critical — especially of Jesus followers — is “the thing to do.” But here’s something to remember: We are all sinful humans. Every single person. If you identify with this symptom of spiritual immaturity, you know the truth, but you lack grace. Try giving grace to those around you.
You have a head knowledge vs. heart knowledge of Jesus. You have a great understanding of theology, of Jesus and history — that’s the head knowledge. But how’s your relationship with Jesus? Are you praying? A lack of heart knowledge is often a sign of spiritual immaturity. The great news is that growing your heart knowledge — your relationship with Jesus — is a choice you can make.
Anger comes easily to you. Do you find yourself easily frustrated, annoyed or just plain angry at people? If you find that you’re easily sucked into an argument, this may be a sign of spiritual immaturity.
You don’t accept constructive correction. Receiving correction is rarely easy, but it’s often a catalyst for growth. If you’re not open to constructive criticism and correction and you think you’re right no matter what — you may need to take a look at your spiritual maturity.
Excessive self-esteem is a struggle for you. Don’t get us wrong, a healthy self-esteem and personal outlook is great. However, if you find that your ego is a bit high and you’re tearing others down because “they’re not as good as you” — you’re probably exhibiting signs of spiritual immaturity.
You don’t love your neighbor. Do you offer to help those in need? Are you kind to your co-workers? Loving your neighbor (read: actual neighbors, friends, family members, co-workers, etc.) doesn’t have to be a monetary expense, but it does include kindness and caring for those around you. Is your spiritual immaturity keeping you from loving your neighbor?
What does it mean to be mature in your spiritual walk?
As Christians, the Bible tells us in Galatians 5:22-26 that if we’re walking in step with the Lord our lives will reflect the “fruit of the Spirit.” And those fruits of the spirit are: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faith, goodness, gentleness and self-control. Do you see these things in your life or in the lives of those around you?
How you can grow in your faith
Sure, those fruits of the Spirit sound really great, right? But how do you get them? Do they just appear when you decide to accept Jesus as your Savior?
Read the Word. Try to spend time reading the Bible daily. This is how Christians build a relationship with Jesus — by reading the Bible to gain a deeper understanding of God’s character.
Cultivate a life of prayer. Do you talk to your friends and family on a regular basis? Probably. If you don’t, you most likely don’t have a great relationship with them. The same goes for your relationship with Jesus — pray and talk to Him.
Serve others. One of the best ways you can grow in your faith is to serve others. Find a way to get involved in your community or your church. Pray and ask God to open a volunteer or serving opportunity for you.
Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey
At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. And every journey needs a Starting Point.
Starting Point groups are in-person, stress-free and judgment-free groups that meet periodically at Centerpoint Church. Here, you can spend some time getting to know fellow group members, reading and having an open conversation about topics like God, the scriptures, faith and Jesus. Completely new to the teachings of Jesus? Returning to church after a long break? Questioning the teachings you were brought up with or just unsure what you believe? Our Starting Point groups are here to help you navigate your faith journey. Get in touch with us to learn when the next Starting Point group is meeting or to join a Starting Point group.