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The concept of Spiritual development in Christianity

According to Christianity, spiritual development is the gradual growth in understanding and relationship with God, rooted in foundational beliefs such as Christ's death. It encompasses the evolution of faith through various stages, including the transition from John's disciples to a belief in Christ. This development is characterized by deepening insights into spirituality, God's revelations, and the maturity of faith, emphasizing that growth should not be rushed. Additionally, early Christianity highlights the ability to perceive spiritual truths as part of this ongoing journey.

Synonyms: Spiritual growth, Personal growth, Self-improvement, Spiritual advancement, Inner development, Spiritual evolution, Character development, Spiritual awakening, Inner growth, Self-discovery, Enlightenment, Soul growth, Inner peace, Spiritual progress, Mindfulness.

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Spiritual development'

Christianity Books

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) The growth and maturity of one's faith, which is mentioned as being better when not rushed or precipitated.[1] (2) The continuous growth in grace and knowledge of God that believers can achieve through steadfastness and abiding in faith.[2] (3) The growth in understanding and relationship with God that evolves over time, yet remains rooted in the foundational beliefs of Christ's death.[3] (4) The progression of understanding and faith in spiritual matters, showcased by the transition from John's disciples to full belief in Christ.[4]

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) This was designed as the scene of man's own spiritual development, with its two trees, one of life and one of knowledge, and it is mentioned in the text.[5] (2) The process by which Jesus interprets Jewish law in its deeper meanings, aiming for a profound understanding of spirituality.[6]

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) The text states that God's revelation was suited to the people's growth in faith, and that certain methods of divination were accepted until the people were more educated.[7]

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary

(1) The growth required to perceive spiritual truths, such as the Third Eye vision and inner hearing of the Holy Ghost.[8]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.