Growing in Christ
As taught in the Seventh-day Adventist tradition
The walk of sanctification and victory over sin through the indwelling Spirit, leading to a life of service and character development.
The question at the heart of the Seventh-day Adventist experience regarding "Growing in Christ" is not merely "How do I become a better person?" but rather, "How does the believer maintain a living, breathing connection with the Source of life in the midst of a cosmic conflict?" In the Adventist tradition, salvation is understood through the lens of the "Great Controversy"—a multi-millennial struggle between Christ and Satan over the character of God and the loyalty of His creation. Within this framework, Christian growth is the process by which the image of God is restored in the human soul. It is the transition from a state of rebellion and spiritual death to one of vibrant, active participation in the divine nature.
By the end of this lesson
- Identify the essential components of "abiding in Christ" as the primary mechanism for spiritual growth in the Adventist tradition.
- Distinguish between the work of "Justification" (God’s work for us) and "Sanctification" (God’s work in us) while explaining their inseparable nature.
- Explain the role of the "Great Controversy" theme in shaping the Adventist believer’s approach to spiritual warfare and daily victory.
- Articulate the relationship between the "Fruit of the Spirit" and the observance of God’s moral law as a reflection of Christ’s character.
- Trace the historical shift in Adventist thought from the legalistic tendencies of the mid-19th century to the "Righteousness by Faith" focus established in 1888.
- Defend the holistic nature of Christian growth, demonstrating how physical health and mental discipline support spiritual maturity.
- Apply the principles of "Steps to Christ" to develop a personal daily devotional routine that fosters a living connection with Jesus.
- Compare the Adventist doctrine of "Growth in Christ" with mainstream evangelical views, specifically focusing on the role of the Law and the Sabbath.
Scripture
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