Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. (Pr. 22:6)
When a child is born he has a genetic identity that came from his parents. For purposes of this example we can say that he has the nature of his parents. However, just because a child is the offspring of his parents does not mean he will automatically be like them in behavior, understanding, wisdom and purpose. Children left to themselves are unhappy, directionless and lacking in social skills and knowledge. They must be trained.
It is the same way when we are ‘born again.’ Simply because we have the nature of God does not mean we will automatically grow into wise, mature, faithful, victorious children of God. Our ‘new man’ must be trained. All we have to do is look around at other believers and see the incredible differences in their lives in order to know that simply being born of God does not mean that God’s desires for our lives will be realized. How is this needed training accomplished?
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Tim. 3:16-17)
What is being inferred is obvious. The man or woman of God will NOT be complete and fully equipped apart from the ministry of the Word for doctrine, reproof, correction and instruction in righteousness. No matter how sparkling clean our spirit may be, the purpose of our new man will be lost if we don’t become a part of God’s training program.
That is why Jesus has given the five-fold ministry to the church. We have apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers “for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” (Eph. 4:12) Believers must be trained. Ministers use the Word of God in order to equip the saints.
This is not legalism when done in accordance with the love and grace of God. It is simply God’s plan for maturing His people. (See 1 Cor. 3:1-4)
Lively Hope 