In this sermon, we examined our personal growth as Christians, reflecting on where we stand spiritually. If asked to rate our progress since coming to Christ, some of us might feel we’ve grown very little, while others may say they’re spiritually “on fire.” Yet, for those who feel stagnant or lukewarm in their walk with God, we were challenged to consider what’s holding us back from becoming passionate, committed Christians.

The first point focused on the need to “Grow Up” in our faith, as emphasized in 1 Peter 2:1-3. Growth requires us to lay aside sins like malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking. Peter urged us to examine our lives and let go of things that hinder spiritual maturity. Whether it’s worldly distractions such as video games or more damaging habits like ungodly relationships, pornography, or alcohol, these behaviors can stunt our spiritual growth. We learned that we cannot truly add Christ to our lives without subtracting sin. In order to grow, we must desire the “pure milk of the word” (1 Peter 2:2) and immerse ourselves in God’s Word for sustenance and transformation.

The sermon also covered different methods of teaching God’s Word, such as topical, systematic, and expository preaching, each capturing various aspects of God’s heart and mind. However, expository preaching was highlighted as the most faithful way to present Scripture, allowing the Bible to speak for itself while helping believers stay rooted in the true context of the text. Spiritual growth, we were reminded, comes when we consistently study the Bible with an understanding of its full context—whether immediate, grammatical, historical, or theological. At Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, we prioritize faithful, expository preaching to encourage and equip believers in their spiritual journey.

The second point encouraged us to be “Built Up” as part of the body of Christ (1 Peter 2:4-8). Just as the early tabernacle and temple were constructed by human hands, the Church today is not built with physical stones but with “living stones”—each of us chosen by God to fulfill a unique role. As believers, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Our service to God, much like the offering of sacrifices in the Old Testament, requires surrender and personal cost. Ministry that costs nothing is worth nothing, and we were encouraged to make ourselves available to God by serving in the church.

Moving forward, we were challenged to “Rise Up” and embrace our identity as a “chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9-10). As Christians, we are called to proclaim the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. We should rise up to proclaim how Jesus died for us, saved us, and loves us. This is our responsibility as members of God’s royal priesthood. In a world that is increasingly hostile toward the truth, we were reminded not to be silent but to boldly share how Jesus has transformed our lives.

Lastly, we were called to “Stand Up” for righteousness (1 Peter 2:11-12). As sojourners and pilgrims in this world, we must abstain from fleshly lusts that war against the soul. We were urged to take a stand against sin—whether it’s lust, fornication, pornography, drugs, or injustice—and to take a stand for the truth of the Gospel. Standing for righteousness often invites opposition, but we were encouraged by the example of Jonathan Isaac, an NBA player who stood alone in his conviction, refusing to kneel during the national anthem in 2020. Like Isaac, when we stand for Christ, we might face criticism, but God will vindicate us through our good works.

In closing, we were reminded that it’s time to grow up, build up, rise up, and stand up. We must lay aside sinful behaviors, desire the pure milk of the Word, and be involved in serving God. Boldness in proclaiming Jesus and taking a stand for Him are essential, for He was willing to lay down His life for us.

At Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, led by Pastor Allen Victor, we are committed to faithfully teaching God’s Word, allowing it to shape and guide our lives.

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