By Minister Sonnie Robinson (September 2025)

The first thing we need to know is what biblical spiritual growth truly means — and just as importantly, what it doesn’t mean.

What Spiritual Growth Is:

At its heart, spiritual growth is the process of being transformed into the likeness of Christ — in our character, our heart, and our actions — through the continual work of the Holy Spirit.

For many of us, this journey began with a sense of curiosity. We asked questions. We sought answers. Slowly, what once felt distant and abstract — the idea of God — began to draw near.  We started to sense that this wasn’t just about religion, but a relationship.  Jesus wasn’t just someone we learned about — He became someone we began to know!

Soon, we’re walking with Him more intentionally. Our faith has become personal, real, and purposeful. And yet, the more we grow, the more we realize that this is a lifelong journey of becoming.  2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV) confirms that … ‘we all… are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 

So, spiritual growth is a:

• Progressive — It unfolds over time. There’s no instant maturity, only daily transformation.
• Long term  — It involves the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2), the softening of our hearts, and the reshaping of our behavior.
• Partnership — It’s God’s power at work in us, but it also requires our surrender, obedience, and intentional pursuit.

We don’t grow by accident; we grow by choice! Over and over again, we must say yes to Jesus in the everyday moments.  And the more we do, the more our lives begin to reflect the One we follow.

What Spiritual Growth Is not:

The second thing we need to know is what spiritual growth isn’t! Even experienced believers can drift into subtle misunderstandings. Let’s name them so we can break free from them.

1. Busyness ≠ Growth – Being busy in church doesn’t automatically mean we’re growing. “I’m leading a lot of things… I must be growing.” WRONG! Ministry activity can mask spiritual emptiness.  Luke 10:4 Martha was active for Jesus, but Mary was present with Jesus. One was busy, but the other was fruitful.

2. Knowledge ≠ Growth – Knowing more about the Bible doesn’t mean becoming more like Christ. “I’ve read 30 books this year. I know the Greek word for sanctification.” Information without transformation is deception. James 1:22 — “Do not merely listen to the word… Do what it says.”  Knowledge without obedience leads to pride, not progress.

3. Emotion ≠ Depth – Feeling spiritually high is not a sign of spiritual depth. That worship night felt powerful. I must be maturing.” Maturity means faithfulness even when emotions are flat. Emotion fades. Fruit lasts. Real depth is often revealed in ordinary faithfulness.

4. Position ≠ Progress – Being a leader doesn’t mean we’re still growing. In fact, leadership can mask personal neglect. “I’m a leader, so I must be spiritually strong.” Many leaders lead well publicly but struggle quietly. 1 Corinthians 10:12 — “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall. “Spiritual growth isn’t about how much you do — it’s about how much you become like Jesus.”

STAY TUNED… Part 3 coming in October!

Blessings!