SUPERFICIAL SAINTS

“Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.” - Hebrews 5:11

We are living in a superficial age. The mental, emotional and spiritual depth of most Christians is very alarming. We are busy being busy, but few are actually maturing in the faith. Even at church, members can be kept active without experiencing much growth.

When the epistle to the Hebrews was written, the writer had a great concern about the lack of spiritual depth among his readers. As I see American Christianity today, I feel a similar concern.

These days, people want a light and fluffy message at church. Rather than being edified, they prefer to be entertained. Instead of being fed from the Word, they'd rather be given a quick motivational speech. Even worse, they'd rather be given small doses of Scripture rather than digging deep into the Word. Jesus is no longer the heart-felt desire of the church-goer. Instead, they want someone to pat them on the head and tell them that everything is going to be alright. That is superficial spirituality. Many churches have a large percentage of their congregation who fall into that category. They are superficial saints.

God is not satisfied with such immaturity and we shouldn't be either. I find that many pastors are eager to engage people on such a low level with the intent of keeping them in attendance and contributing to the budget. Those in leadership can be very superficial when they spend their time studying the numerical data of their church and neglecting the actual spiritual growth of the people.

How can we tell if we are becoming spiritual mature … or remaining spiritually superficial? I think here are a few signs:

1. SPIRITUALLY MATURE PEOPLE DESIRE GOD

The superficial tend to be very self-centered. Spiritually mature people seek the face of God. Are you more impressed by the technology and programs of your church more than you are overwhelmed by the greatness and glory of God? If so, you need to grown up … now.

2. SPIRITUALITY MATURE PEOPLE VALUE DOCTRINE

Superficial saints will actually brag about a church that “doesn't preach much doctrine.” A spiritually mature person desires sound doctrine, because it teaches him more about his Lord. A spiritually mature person seeks truth, not just a humorous motivational talk.

3. SPIRITUALLY MATURE PEOPLE DESIRE INNER CHANGE

The superficial seek success, worldly achievement and the obtainment of personal desires & goals. Spiritually mature people seek to be more like Jesus. A spiritually mature person is serious about personal repentance, spiritual obedience and daily gratitude. The superficial seek outward improvements while the spiritually mature seek inner growth.

4. SPIRITUALLY MATURE PEOPLE FIND THEIR IDENTITY IN CHRIST

Superficial saints have a need to be recognized and praised. Their identity is often wrapped up in their job title, position or acceptance among peers. Spiritually mature people find their identity in Christ. They feel no need to impress others. Their desire is to please the Lord.

5. SPIRITUALLY MATURE PEOPLE SEEK CONTINUAL GROWTH

Superficial saints seek to fulfill their own goals. Spiritually mature people seek continual growth. Spiritually mature people will never reach perfection in this life, but they seek to be holy. They seek to know more about God, which keeps them in the Bible.

6. SPIRITUALLY MATURE PEOPLE PRAY MATURE PRAYERS

Superficial people pray superficial prayers. Their prayers are typically self-centered prayers. Spiritually mature saints do pray about themselves, but with a different goal --- the goal of pleasing God. Furthermore, spiritually mature saints tend to pray for others. Their prayer for others goes beyond the typical, “bless them, Lord,” prayers and focuses on specific needs and spiritual issues.

7. SPIRITUALLY MATURE PEOPLE HAVE AN ETERNAL FOCUS

Superficial saints are focused on the here-and-now. They tend to only focus on their daily lives. Spiritually mature people see today's events with an eternal focus. Spiritually mature people live with eternity in mind, investing in eternal matters.

Are you a superficial saint? If so, today is a great day to seek spiritual maturity. Maturity involves some growing pains. Maturity doesn't come easy. Just as a parent desires to see the maturity of his children, our heavenly Father wants to see spiritual maturity in the lives of His children.

It is time for Christians and churches to quit wading around in the shallow waters and launch out into the deep. While the basics of Christianity should always be remembered, let us seek a deep, satisfying walk with God.