Young Adulthood – The Strength to Overcome

Stages of Spiritual Development Spiritual-growth

Scripture

1 John 2:14b

Description

Young adults are defined by energy, strength, and a growing sense of identity. In this stage, the believer moves from "me-centered" faith to "mission-centered" faith. They are no longer just consumers; they are contributors.

Introduction

As we alluded to in the last session, while milk is essential at the beginning, the Bible warns against remaining in that stage for too long. A healthy believer uses milk to "grow up in your salvation" (

1 Peter 2:2

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

) until they reach a point where they can chew, swallow, and absorb "solid food"—which is defined as moving from being fed by others to taking personal responsibility for one's own study and prayer life. Young adults are defined by energy, strength, and a growing sense of identity. In this stage, the believer moves from "me-centered" faith to "mission-centered" faith. They are no longer just consumers; they are contributors.

Main Verse:

1 John 2:14b

Verse text not found

Main Points

There are some key characteristics in this stage, and they are the following:

  • Spiritual Strength: Young adults have learned how to use the "Sword of the Spirit" to defeat temptation. Young adults move from being "cared for" to "caring for" others. They are the workforce of the Kingdom.

    Ephesians 6:17

    And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

  • The Internal Process: Sanctification. This is the "boot camp" of the soul where the believer actively fights against the flesh and worldly influences. This is the sign of good spiritual health, just as the body is able to fend off diseases.

    1 Thessalonians 4:3

    For this is the will of God, {even} your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

  • Feeding Yourself: Unlike infants, young adults don't need to be "spoon-fed" by a pastor every Sunday; they know how to study and apply the Word personally. Self-Feeder. The young adult learns to open the Bible and hear God's voice for themselves without needing a middleman.

    1 John 2:14

    I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him {that is} from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.

    .

  • Discovery of Gifts: This is the season of service. Young adults start finding their place in the Body of Christ and using their talents for the Kingdom. In this stage, you are experiencing discovery of spiritual gifts (

    1 Corinthians 12

    Verse text not found

    ), and a heart for service.
    1 Peter 4:10

    As every man hath received the gift, {even so} minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

  • Deeper Insight: This stage is often marked by "spiritual growing pains"—trials that God uses to build endurance and character (

    James 1:2-4

    My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; {temptations: or, trials} Knowing {this}, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have {her} perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

    ).
    Romans 5:3-4

    And not only {so}, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

Memory Verse

To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.
— Colossians 1:29

Conclusion

As we transition from infancy dependence to young adulthood vigour, God provides the power, and we provide the participation. True maturity begins when we stop asking "What can God do for me?" and start asking "What can I do for God's Kingdom?" Use the strength you have found in the Word to stand firm against the enemy and to lift up those who are still in the earlier stages of their walk.