Many of us have the misconception that “mature Christians” means believers who are biologically older; have been a Christian for many years; or possess much bible knowledge. This is not entirely true. If we are not nurturing another believer in the faith, we stop maturing. In Trinity, we call this act of discipleship, Spiritual Parenting.
By Zoey Tay
Why are Spiritual Parents important?
Every baby needs parents — likewise, spiritual babies (SBs) need spiritual parents (SPs). As new believers are added to the Kingdom of God, spiritual parents are needed to journey alongside them, helping them grow in their faith and relationship with God.
Why should you become a Spiritual Parent?
1. You are called to make disciples
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20 NIV)
2. You are chosen to be God’s royal priests
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter2:9 NIV)
3. You are appointed to bear fruit
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” (John 15:16 NIV)
"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit ...
4. You are given the ministry of reconciliation
God first reconciled us to Himself through Jesus. Then, He committed the message of reconciliation to us who are His ambassadors. (2 Corinthians 5:18-20)
5. You are created to be the salt and light
Like how salt has purifying, cleansing, and healing properties, we are to bring Jesus’ sanctification and healing to our world (sphere of influence). We are also meant to bring God’s light into this dark world. (Matthew 5:13-16)
6. You are sent by God as harvest workers
“Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” (Matthew 9:37-38)
7. You grow and mature when you serve God and people
“So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely, we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God... And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding”. (Hebrews 6:1-3 NLT)
Nurturing can be hard work, but the reward is greater. Hear from four SPs who were commissioned officially to disciple others in the Connect Groups (CG).
Joash Cheng, IGNYTE Ministry (Armed Forces):
I chose to become an SP because I wanted to help others experience the same love that Christ has given me and to help them grow in their journey with God. Being inspired by how my adult leaders walked alongside me through my struggles, I enjoy building relationships with my SBs and seeing them step out in faith and grow in their desire for God.
Daniel Pang, university student (Campus Ministry):
It’s a great privilege to be part of God’s end-time harvest force as we press onward to the greatest revival yet in this generation. Though different members grow at different paces, the discipleship process cultivates greater faith and patience in me. Despite the various challenges, I want to seize every opportunity to make disciples for Jesus!
It is a great privilege!
Fiona Yuen, in Job transition (Area 1):
Spiritual Parenting is a learning journey. It is dynamic and interactive! Being an SP is a way to express my gratitude to our Heavenly Father for His love and grace lavished on me.
The walk with a SB goes beyond discipleship materials. We spend time together sharing and praying. There are adjustments to the schedule, but the rewards outweigh them. It is encouraging when the SB is integrated into the CG and grows in faith. It is so uplifting to cheer others on and be encouraged in return.
Elina Wong, who is a Music Teacher:
When my CG leader asked me to go for Spiritual Parenting Training (SPT), I did not rationalize. I felt convicted to do so with the Holy Spirit’s leading. Biblical character, Caleb, and Pastor Dowdy inspires me as they still serve in their eighties.
I feel a great delight to see people arising in faith and walking in their calling. A sign of growth is when a spiritual baby grows and steps up to become a spiritual parent.
Start on your journey to mature:
1. Join and attend a Connect Group
2. Be water baptized and join the church as a registered member
3. If you are in a CG, tell your leader of your desire to be a SP
Sign up for the next Spiritual Parent Training course! Come and learn the heart of evangelism and pick up skills to share the gospel with someone and to disciple them.
Reflect & Respond
How did the seven reasons speak to you?
Speak to your leader how you may nurture another person to grow.
About the Author
Zoey Tay loves God and desires to host His presence wherever she goes. She is like sunshine in spring, warm and kind. A good laugh from watching a romance comedy can invigorate her soul.
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