In our Christian walk, the distinction between a knowledgeable Christian and a seasoned Christian is significant. “But become doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he looked at himself and has gone away, he immediately forgot what kind of person he was” (James 1:22-24).
A mature Christian is not solely defined by their ability to articulate theological truths, pass rigorous seminary courses, or earn advanced degrees. While these achievements are commendable in the desire to be better equipped, they merely represent head knowledge. Some men may possess the ability to provide sound advice and share nuggets of truth gleaned from their studies, yet most often they require further growth and training before they can genuinely guide others in their spiritual growth.
The essence of the Christian faith is much more than an intellectual understanding but must be experienced, tasted, and lived out through the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. This experiential knowledge of Christ is foundational and manifests a deep and abiding relationship with Christ. While knowledge is crucial, the personal experience of Christ truly anchors our faith on the basis of doctrine. This intimacy with God is not simply a matter of intellectual assent, but involves a heartfelt grasp of His saving grace, as God has revealed Himself in the Scriptures.
Experiential Christianity calls us to examine our life in light of Scripture. Do we see a transformed life with the evidence of the fruits of the Spirit? “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law” (Gal. 5:22-23).
It is a faith that has been tried and tested, one that perseveres through affliction and stands firm in the face of trials. The seasoned Christian carries the weight of his experiences, which enhances his understanding of God and deepens his compassion for others. Those who have walked through the peaks and valleys of sanctification have also tasted the goodness of God in their lives, shaping their faith in ways that formal education cannot replicate.
Seminaries indeed provide valuable theological training, but they cannot impart the wisdom that comes from a life lived in relationship with Christ. Only the Holy Spirit can develop the heart of a mature Christian, one who embodies both knowledge and experience. This approach to faith emphasizes the importance of living out our beliefs, submitting to the truth of Scripture, and letting our experiences deepen our understanding of who God is and who we are compared to Him.
While knowledge is an essential aspect of the Christian life, the combination of knowledge and lived experience truly defines a mature Christian. “And not only this, but we also boast in our afflictions, knowing that affliction brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not put to shame, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us”(Rom. 5:3-5).
Embracing both allows us to grow in our faith and effectively minister to others, reflecting the fullness of Christ in our lives. Now we are ready to disciple others. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them”(Eph. 2:10).
About The Author
1689 Federalism | Amillennialism | General Equity Theonomist
Tom Sheppard and his wife, Debbie, are devoted members of Grace Bible Church of Boerne, where Tom leads the street evangelism ministry with the support of their church family and elders. For the past four years, he has been actively engaged in open-air preaching and street evangelism in various cities across Texas. Along with his wife and others, Tom distributes tracts and spreads the gospel message of the Lord Jesus Christ. Sheppard is the host of the Even If None podcast and a co-host of the Open Air Theology podcast.
