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Beyond Barely Saved?Beyond Barely Saved?
by Mike Barres
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All too often, I hear people talk about how they are what might be called "barely saved." They say things like, "Don't use me as an example. I fall short in so many ways." People like this often have a strange kind of pride in their spiritual humility — or should we say, their spiritual shortcomings. I love and appreciate the simplicity of salvation and I know we have all sinned and fallen short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). The thing that concerns me is our overall lack of desire for spiritual maturity. Where is that transformation of our lives that makes us daily more and more like Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18)?

Some people almost seem to be afraid of seeking spiritual maturity. Maybe they think it is some kind of goal that is not attainable for them. Maybe they think that spiritual maturity is reserved for a special few. Some may even worry that if they become spiritually mature that people will think that they are trying to be superior or better than everyone else.

Some people are afraid to seek spiritual maturity.
We have plenty of "barely saved" Christians. We need a lot more spiritually mature people that are living a consistent Biblical lifestyle and are examples for others to follow. Children need to see solid mature Christian adults. Young boys especially need to see some Godly men, so they can follow their example.

Remember the slogan, "I don't want to grow up, I'm a 'Toys Are Us' kid." I asked our adult Bible study why some didn't want to grow up spiritually. They said that some don't want the responsibility. Growing up does require more of us. Some of us would rather stay a spiritual child and not accept the responsibilities of the spiritually mature.

We need to hear the Word of God call us to be mature examples for others.

Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature (1 Corinthians 14:20 NKJV).

Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern (Philippians 3:17).

For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil (Hebrews 5:12-14).
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      © 2008 Mike Barres.

      Title: "Beyond Barely Saved?"
      Author: Mike Barres
      Publication Date: November 01, 2008

 
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Mike Barres Mike is a pastor and writer for a number of online publications.

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