Growing in Our Biblical Knowledge
Willie A. Alvarenga

One of the fundamental areas in which a Christian must grow is in the knowledge of the Scriptures. Unfortunately, many believers have not progressed spiritually in this area. There are still members of the church who, after many years of faith, have not grown in their knowledge of God’s Word. This situation is similar to what occurred in the context of the book of Hebrews. In chapter 5, the writer mentions those Christians who, despite the years, still had not become teachers of the Word. This cannot continue to be the case. Every member of the church must make it their goal and action to grow in the knowledge of the Scriptures.

What can a Christian do to grow in their biblical knowledge?
Below are practical principles that, when put into action, can strengthen a Christian in their knowledge of God’s Word:

To grow in biblical knowledge, a Christian must:

1. Recognize that they have not obeyed the command to grow in the knowledge of God’s Word (2 Peter 3:18; Colossians 3:15).
2. Recognize in their heart the importance of dedicating sufficient time to read God’s Word (1 Timothy 4:13; Psalm 1:2).
3. Recognize the importance of becoming deeply familiar with the will of God (Ephesians 5:17).
4. Recognize the need to seek help when they don’t understand certain portions of the Bible (Acts 8:30-35).
5. Recognize the importance of being present for all lessons presented in the congregation (Hebrews 10:25-26).
6. Recognize the importance of learning how to handle God’s Word accurately (2 Timothy 2:15).
7. Recognize the importance of praying to God for wisdom and understanding (James 1:5-7; Psalm 119:18).
8. Recognize the importance of imitating the good examples of those who have made an effort to grow in the knowledge of God’s Word (Ezra 7:10).
9. Recognize the essential need to have a deep love for God’s Word (Psalm 119:97).
10. Recognize the importance of diligently memorizing the Scriptures (Psalm 119:9, 11, 16).
11. Recognize the importance of being a doer of what is learned, and not just a hearer (James 1:22-25; Luke 11:28).
12. Recognize the importance of using tools that can help understand God’s Word (e.g., commentaries, dictionaries, reference books, lexicons, etc.).

All of the above can be very helpful in enabling a Christian to grow in the knowledge of God’s Word. It is vital that we do not allow our spiritual lives to stagnate. By putting these principles into practice, we can become more effective in our relationship with God and in fulfilling His will. May God abundantly bless you on this journey of spiritual growth!

Growing in Brotherly Love
Willie A. Alvarenga

One of the key areas of spiritual growth in which Christians must diligently strive is brotherly love. This love is not merely an option within the process of growth and spiritual maturity for God’s children, but a divine command given by Jesus Himself. As disciples, we should be deeply familiar with John 13:34-35, where Jesus gives us a new commandment: to love one another. The question we must ask ourselves is: How can we grow in brotherly love? What must a Christian do to cultivate this love that God commands us to practice? Below are some practical ways we can move forward in this essential command.

1. Obeying the command to love your spiritual family (John 13:34-35).
2. Striving to love your brothers and sisters with sincerity (Romans 12:9).
3. Endeavoring to consider others better than yourself (Philippians 2:1-4).
4. Imitating the example of Jesus, Timothy, and Epaphroditus (Philippians 2).
5. Seeking to serve our brothers and sisters in Christ (Galatians 5:13).
6. Constantly practicing forgiveness among believers (Mark 11:25-26; Colossians 3:13).
7. Striving to grow in knowledge of the Word and goodness, so we can admonish one another (Romans 15:14).
8. Seeking to please our brothers and sisters (Romans 15:2).
9. Attending church services regularly to take the opportunity to encourage one another in love and good works (Hebrews 10:24).
10. Practicing generosity among believers (Acts 2:44-46; Romans 12:13).
11. Practicing prayer together (Acts 12:5, 12; 1 Thessalonians 5:17).
12. Always being quick to listen and slow to anger (James 1:19-20).
13. Allowing the Word of God to transform our lives for the better (Romans 12:1-2).
14. Discarding any attitude that hinders brotherly love (Ephesians 4:31-32; 3 John 9-10).
15. Being a good example to our brothers and sisters (1 Thessalonians 2:7-11; 1 Timothy 4:12).
16. Acknowledging the good work of others (1 Thessalonians 5:12-15).
17. Praying for our brothers and sisters in Christ (Ephesians 6:18).
18. Rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep (Romans 12:15).
19. Avoiding falsehood among believers (Colossians 3:9; Ephesians 4:25).
20. Seeking reconciliation among brothers and sisters (Matthew 18:15-17; 5:23-24).

Are we practicing these things? How much have we grown in brotherly love? May God help us put this command into practice, so that together, we may one day be with Him in heaven.

The Meaning of Spiritual Growth
Willie A. Alvarenga

What does it really mean to grow spiritually in the Lord? This is a fundamental question, and the Bible offers us a clear and profound answer. The verb “to grow” comes from the Greek term auxánete, which conveys the concept of increasing, extending, or expanding in scope, whether in activities or states (Louw & Nida, 59.62). This term is used in various biblical passages related to spiritual growth (for example, 2 Peter 3:18; 1 Peter 2:2; Ephesians 2:21, among others). When applied to spiritual growth, it implies that the Lord expects every believer to make progress in their Christian life.

If Christians do not understand the meaning of spiritual growth, it is likely they will not strive to achieve it. Therefore, it is crucial to reflect on what it truly means to grow spiritually in the Lord. Below, we explore what this growth genuinely involves:

What Does It Mean to Grow Spiritually in the Lord?

1. Constantly remembering the command to grow (1 Cor. 15:58).
2. Examining ourselves (2 Cor. 13:5).
3. Reflecting on the necessary means for spiritual growth (2 Pet. 1:5–11).
4. Avoiding indifference and apathy (Rev. 3:15–16; Mark 12:30; Matt. 6:33).
5. Doing more than what is expected (Philemon 21; 1 Cor. 15:10).
6. Strengthening the church through faithful service (Eph. 4:11–16).
7. Keeping our eyes continually on the Lord and following His example (2 Pet. 2:21–22).
8. Imitating those who have shown genuine spiritual growth (1 Cor. 4:16; 11:1; Phil. 3:17; 3 John).
9. Continually seeking God’s help in prayer to ask for wisdom (James 1:5–6).
10. Being more active in the Lord’s service (Heb. 5:11–14).

Growing spiritually in the Lord is a command that involves every aspect of our Christian life. If we work in these areas, we will be fulfilling the purpose of growth that God desires for us. As each believer strives to grow spiritually, the church is strengthened, and together we can accomplish great things for the Lord.

Remember, we have everything we need to grow! Let us take advantage of this opportunity to deepen our relationship with Him and our service to His work.
God bless you.