The Bible is very clear that salvation is not simply limited to getting a one way non-smoking ticket to heaven. Rather, salvation begins with a Spiritual rebirth and the forgiveness of sins which is given freely to those who believe in and receive by faith the one true Jesus as Lord and Savior of their lives (Ephesians 1:13). This spiritual rebirth, and all the promises associated with it, is the beginning of our salvation, not the end (for a look at our identity given by God to those who experience this rebirth, select “Who I Am In Christ”. Once God saves us, we enter into a vital ongoing dependant relationship with God through an active faith in Jesus Christ.

The Bible compares the life of a new believer with that of a newborn baby (Hebrews 5:13-6:3)). Once a baby is born, its life of growing and maturing begins. The natural infant as well as the spiritual infant are both dependent upon the parent for nourishment, for security, for nurturing and care- and both experience growth as a result. The new believer receives this sustenance from God as a love based relationship is developed and is experienced. As God feeds us - we grow, and as we grow in our trust and dependancy upon God, we spiritually mature. God’s definition of a spiritually maturing person is one who is becoming Christ-like, one who lives out and continues to develop the virtues of Christ- such as: humility, kindness, patience, forgiveness, faithfulness, wisdom, and righteousness given by Christ. This is a person who grows in their love for God and love for people.

This is the intent of the Nursery, to give those who are new believers in Jesus Christ some Biblical council, to foster spiritual maturity. Seven Christ-like disciplines have been identified from the Bible and shall be used to aid in this process. It should be clearly understood that these disciplines are not requirements affecting whether or not our sins are forgiven, or preconditions that determine whether we might become children of God. Rather, they enable us, who are already children of God, to “grow up” within the salvation that God has given us and personally shares with us every day. If you have any questions or comments don’t hesitate to contact me or any of the staff at Concerned Christians at the email addresses located in the Front yard or just click on my name below.

Your’s Truly,
Jim Robertson