Topical Encyclopedia The term "immature" in a biblical context often refers to a lack of spiritual growth or development. It is associated with a state of spiritual infancy, where an individual has not yet reached the maturity expected of a believer in Christ. This concept is addressed in several passages throughout the New Testament, where the early church leaders encouraged believers to grow in their faith and understanding.Biblical References: 1. 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 : The Apostle Paul addresses the Corinthian church, highlighting their spiritual immaturity. He writes, "Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual, but as worldly—as infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for solid food. In fact, you are still not ready, for you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man?" Here, Paul uses the metaphor of milk and solid food to illustrate the difference between immature and mature believers. The Corinthians' behavior, marked by jealousy and dissension, is evidence of their immaturity. 2. Hebrews 5:12-14 : The author of Hebrews also addresses the issue of spiritual immaturity, stating, "Although by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to reteach you the basic principles of God’s word. You need milk, not solid food! For everyone who lives on milk is still an infant, inexperienced in the message of righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil." This passage emphasizes the expectation for believers to progress beyond the elementary teachings and develop discernment and understanding. 3. Ephesians 4:14-15 : Paul encourages the Ephesians to grow in maturity, writing, "Then we will no longer be infants, tossed about by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching and by the clever cunning of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head." This passage highlights the importance of stability in faith and doctrine, contrasting the vulnerability of spiritual infancy with the strength of maturity in Christ. Characteristics of Immaturity: · Lack of Discernment: Immature believers often struggle to distinguish between sound doctrine and false teachings. This lack of discernment can lead to instability in their faith, as they are easily swayed by new or deceptive ideas. · Worldly Behavior: As seen in the Corinthian church, immaturity is often accompanied by behaviors that reflect worldly values rather than the transformative power of the Gospel. Jealousy, strife, and division are common indicators of spiritual infancy. · Dependency on Basic Teachings: Immature believers may rely heavily on foundational teachings without progressing to deeper understanding and application of Scripture. This dependency can hinder their spiritual growth and effectiveness in ministry. Encouragement for Growth: The New Testament consistently encourages believers to pursue spiritual maturity. This involves a commitment to studying Scripture, engaging in prayer, and participating in the life of the church. Mature believers are characterized by their ability to teach others, their discernment in matters of faith, and their embodiment of Christ-like virtues. The call to maturity is not merely an individual pursuit but a communal responsibility. The church is tasked with nurturing and equipping believers to grow in their faith, ensuring that they are not only recipients of the Gospel but also active participants in its proclamation and demonstration. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Not full-grown; unripe; unfinished; as, immature fruit; immature character; immature plans.2. (a.) Premature; untimely; too early; as, an immature death. Greek 3516. nepios -- an infant, fig. a simple-minded or immature person ... a simple-minded or immature person. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: nepios Phonetic Spelling: (nay'-pee-os) Short Definition: an infant, child ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3516.htm - 6k 3813. paidion -- a young child Strong's Hebrew 1154. beser -- unripe grape... Word Origin see boser. unripe grape From an unused root meaning to be sour; an immature grape -- unripe grape. 1153, 1154. beser. 1155 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/1154.htm - 5k Library To the Honourable Mr Yorke. Grace and Truth Coupled. Matt. xxi. 12, 13 Preface Book iv. --Of Marcion's Antitheses. Post-Nicene Mothers Womanhood Self-Evident, and not to be Concealed by Just Leaving ... Practical Hints for Speakers True Disciples The Intellect Coeval with the Soul in the Human Being an Example ... Thesaurus Immature (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (a.) Not full-grown; unripe; unfinished; as, immature fruit; immature character; immature plans. 2. (a ... /i/immature.htm - 6k Figtree Fig-tree (33 Occurrences) Fig (45 Occurrences) Green (72 Occurrences) Education (4 Occurrences) Crude (1 Occurrence) Vat (7 Occurrences) Imman'u-el (2 Occurrences) Immeasurable (2 Occurrences) Resources What is the conscience? | GotQuestions.orgIs it possible to marry the wrong person? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about dealing with regrets? | GotQuestions.org Immature: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Immature (1 Occurrence)Romans 2:20 Subtopics Related Terms |
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