June 19. Progress
J.R. Miller emphasizes that Christian growth is a gradual, nurturing process that moves from fragile beginnings to mature spiritual fruitfulness, visible in a believer's life.
In this devotional sermon, J.R. Miller explores the gradual process of Christian growth, likening it to the natural development of wheat from a tender stalk to a full kernel. He highlights the importance of patience and nurturing in the spiritual life, especially for new believers, and calls the church to provide proper care to foster maturity. Miller encourages believers to recognize that true spiritual progress is often unseen but becomes evident in a Christlike character.
Text
"First the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head." Mark 4:28
We understand this well enough in nature; but do we in spiritual life? The beginnings of Christian life are very feeble and imperfect. We must not expect in young converts, the maturity of character we look for in older Christians. Grace begins in a small way. We have no right to look at once for the ripened fruits of Christian experience.
But the wheat does not stop at the tender blade; it shoots up into a strong stalk, at last into ripeness. Christian lives should grow; they have no right to stay always at the starting-point. They should grow in knowledge, in power, in purpose, in achievement — until they put forth all the fruits of the Spirit, and grow into the ripeness of mature Christian experience.
We are to notice here also that while the growth is secret — its results are manifest. The growth of spiritual life are invisible — but the results are not. If a Christian is growing in grace — we shall know it by his life. He will wear more and more of the image of Christ, and the "mind of Christ" will appear more and more in his disposition and conduct!
Another thought suggested here, is that the beginnings of Christian life in young Christians ought to be most gently nurtured by those who are their spiritual overseers. The tender blades cannot endure a frost. Young converts cannot endure the sharp trials and temptations of this world. A clergyman is reported as saying, "I do not dare to bring too many children into my church — not because I do not believe in their sincerity and piety and fitness for church membership — but because there is no provision for their growth and nurture after they are in the church." Could any sadder confession be made? Something must be wrong with the church — when this is true. Let the words stand for the pondering of those whom they concern.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Nature of Spiritual Growth
- Beginnings of Christian life are feeble and imperfect
- Growth is gradual like the development of wheat
- Maturity cannot be expected immediately
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II. The Process of Growth
- From stalk to head to full kernel
- Growth is secret but its results are visible
- Christlike character becomes evident over time
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III. The Role of Nurture
- Young Christians need gentle care and protection
- Sharp trials can harm tender new believers
- Church must provide for ongoing growth and nurture
Key Quotes
“First the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head.” — J.R. Miller
“The beginnings of Christian life are very feeble and imperfect. We must not expect in young converts, the maturity of character we look for in older Christians.” — J.R. Miller
“If a Christian is growing in grace — we shall know it by his life. He will wear more and more of the image of Christ.” — J.R. Miller
Application Points
- Be patient with new believers as they grow in their faith and character.
- Seek to visibly reflect Christ’s image through your daily conduct.
- Support and nurture others in the church to help them withstand spiritual challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is spiritual growth compared to the growth of wheat?
Because like wheat, Christian growth starts small and hidden but progresses steadily to maturity and fruitfulness.
What does J.R. Miller say about expecting maturity in new believers?
He cautions against expecting mature Christian character immediately, emphasizing the need for patience and nurturing.
How can we recognize if a Christian is growing in grace?
Their life will increasingly reflect the image and mind of Christ in their disposition and conduct.
What responsibility does the church have toward new converts?
The church must provide proper nurture and protection to help young Christians grow and withstand trials.