Can You Believe Spiritual Things? The Importance of Spiritual Development
In a world that often prioritises logic and science over faith, it’s easy to lose sight of the profound spiritual truths that define Christianity. But what if we could reclaim the richness of our faith—the heavenly things that challenge earthly logic?
This is an invitation to step into deeper spiritual development and rediscover the beauty of the gospel as Jesus revealed it. Let’s explore what it means to embrace spiritual wisdom, dig into the Scriptures, and align our lives with the Kingdom of God.
Why Spiritual Development Matters
Recently, I came across a discussion about how modern Christianity has, in some ways, moved away from its spiritual roots. The Enlightenment period introduced a shift toward rationalism and away from the deeply spiritual foundation of our faith. This has left many believers with an "earthly" faith that focuses on good works and rational thought rather than the heavenly realities Jesus spoke of.
Jesus’s conversation with Nicodemus in John 3 reminds us that true faith isn’t just about earthly understanding—it’s about being born of the Spirit. He said:
“If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things?” (John 3:12)
Spiritual development challenges us to go beyond surface-level faith and embrace the deeper truths of God’s Kingdom. Are you ready to dig in?
Becoming a Student of Wisdom
Jesus’s conversation with Nicodemus is rich with meaning, yet we often focus only on John 3:16. But what about the verses that lead up to it? Nicodemus was curious about the miracles Jesus performed, but Jesus redirected him to the real issue: the need for spiritual rebirth.
Here’s what we can learn from their exchange:
- Go Beyond the Surface:
- Take time to study not just the words of Scripture but their context. Who was Nicodemus? What did Jesus mean by being "born again"? What does the original text reveal?
- Challenge Modern Rationalism:
- The rational mind might struggle with concepts like being born of the Spirit, but Jesus reminds us that spiritual truths often defy earthly logic.
- Connect Old Testament Prophecies:
- When Jesus referenced Moses lifting the brass serpent in the wilderness (Numbers 21), He pointed to His own crucifixion. These connections deepen our understanding of God’s redemptive plan.
Becoming a student of wisdom means taking the time to explore, reflect, and pray over these truths. The more we engage with Scripture, the more our faith is strengthened.
The Mystery of the Hidden Wisdom
Paul describes the gospel as the "mystery of the hidden wisdom" (1 Corinthians 2:7). It’s a wisdom that can’t be fully grasped through human reasoning. Instead, it’s revealed through the Spirit to those who are born again.
Jesus told Nicodemus:
“The wind blows where it wills, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8)
This is a reminder that spiritual growth is a divine process, not something we can manufacture. It requires surrender, trust, and a willingness to let the Holy Spirit lead.
Living as Citizens of the Kingdom of God
Daniel prophesied the coming of God’s eternal Kingdom long before Jesus walked the earth:
“In the days of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed.” (Daniel 2:44)
This Kingdom isn’t defined by earthly institutions. It’s not a church denomination or a movement. It’s the sovereign rule of God over all creation.
To live as citizens of this Kingdom means:
- Submitting to the King: Aligning every area of your life with God’s will.
- Believing the Scriptures: Trusting in the authority and truth of God’s Word.
- Rejecting Earthly Compromise: Refusing to let modern rationalism dilute the gospel.
Practical Steps for Spiritual Growth
If you’re ready to deepen your spiritual development, here are some steps you can take:
- Study Scripture Deeply:
- Don’t just read the Bible—study it. Look up cross-references, explore historical contexts, and meditate on its truths.
- Ask Questions:
- What does this passage mean? How does it connect to other parts of Scripture? What is God revealing about Himself?
- Pray for Revelation:
- Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to the hidden wisdom of the Word.
- Join a Faith-Based Community:
- Surround yourself with believers who challenge and encourage you. The Grace and Confidence Collective on Facebook is a great place to start!
- Embrace the Mystery:
- Trust that some aspects of faith will remain beyond human understanding. This is where trust in God becomes essential.
Believe in Heavenly Things
Jesus told Nicodemus that seeing the Kingdom of God requires spiritual rebirth. This is the heart of the gospel: believing in Jesus, who was “lifted up” so that we might have eternal life.
It’s time to embrace the heavenly things—the truths that confound earthly logic but bring eternal life. As believers, we hold the keys to the Kingdom. Let’s live like it.
Your Next Step
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