God intends conversion to be a growth process with the aim or goal to become like Christ. The process includes yielding to God to be led by His Spirit to get rid of materialism, self-centeredness, bad habits of character and bad attitudes. In their place, God desires growth in the fruits of the Spirit, especially in love toward God and love of the brethren. This doctrine comprises the bulk of the behavioral instruction, correction, exhortation and admonition of the Bible.
Scripture References:
Hebrews 6:1; 5:10-12; Matthew 5:48; Hebrews 2:10; 5:9; 13:21; James 1:4; II Corinthians 13:9; I Peter 2:2; II Peter 3:18; Ephesians 4:7-15
From the Library: Perfection, Going On To
Basic Doctrines: Going On to Perfection
Bible Study by StaffJust what is perfection? Paul admonishes us to go on to perfection, urging diligence in becoming complete and mature, following those who endured great trials. Perfection entails completeness, ripeness, and the fullness of the stature of Christ, embodying traits such as being without spot or blemish, sound, undefiled, whole, and …
Going On to Perfection
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod has provided us with all things necessary for life and godliness through His divine power, equipping us to fulfill the purpose He has set for us. He has made us partakers of the divine nature, placing within us the potential to grow in His likeness, though it is not yet fully developed. We are called to use this gift, to …
Going on to Perfection
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John O. ReidIn the pursuit of spiritual growth, we are urged to advance toward maturity, leaving behind the rudimentary aspects of faith. We must not linger on the basics but strive to go on to perfection, aiming to complete our calling as God permits. God desires us to make an honest attempt at righteousness, despite our imperfections, and …
Where Is God's True Church Today?
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughIn the journey of faith, the pursuit of holiness is central to the purpose of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Holiness reflects the attitude and way that God conducts His life, and it is our responsibility to engrain His way into our pattern of living so thoroughly that it becomes habitual, our first nature. This effort, as a living …
What Is the Work of God Now? (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe preaching the gospel to the world is at best the beginning of a complex process of creating disciples through steady feeding and encouragement to overcome.
Growing to Perfection
Article by Charles WhitakerSpiritual growth mimics our physical growth to maturity. If we continue in the process, we will 'grow into' our potential as God's children.
Why Hebrews Was Written (Part One)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGod inspired the book of Hebrews to answer the difficult questions church members were struggling with during the tumultuous first decades of the church.
Keeping God's Standards
Sermon by John O. ReidGod's law will be the spiritual weights and measures in the Kingdom, but until then, we must glorify God by keeping these standards as a bright light.
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