After Salvation, What Next?

 Today, we embark on a journey about salvation, focusing on what follows after one gets saved. While salvation is a beautiful and joyous event celebrated in heaven, it marks the beginning of a Christian's journey rather than the end. There are essential stages in the Christian walk that every saved soul must navigate to achieve full maturity.

So, what comes next after salvation? "Growth." After salvation, there must be a genuine desire to grow, or one risks missing the blessings and advantages that come with spiritual maturity. A newly saved soul is akin to a spiritual "baby" in Christ, requiring guidance and support until reaching maturity. Although challenges may arise in the early stages of the journey, with the right attitude and support system, growth is assured.

Let's explore the steps in spiritual growth:

1. Fellowship: Salvation is a personal decision, but the journey that follows cannot be undertaken alone. New believers need the encouragement and support of more established and spiritually mature brethren. Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of fellowship with one another, making it crucial to find a church for worship and connection with fellow believers.

2. Bible Study: As a newly saved soul, the heart and mind need fortification against negative thoughts. This is where God's Word becomes essential. Bible study, both individually and collectively, is an engaging and integral part of a Christian's life. It is through the study of God's Word that believers learn doctrine and commandments (2 Timothy 3:16). The Bible serves as a shield against false doctrines and is foundational for the maturation of new converts.

Miracles, signs, and wonders are indeed captivating, and the manifestation of the gifts of the Holy Spirit is awe-inspiring. However, as remarkable as these experiences may be, none of them has the inherent ability to mature a believer. God encourages us to be deeply grounded in the truth of His Word - Apst Joshua Selman

3. Prayer: Prayer is the master key, a captivating art, and a vital component of a Christian's daily life. As a new convert in Christ, prayer is an art that must be cultivated, practiced, and mastered. It forms an integral part of a believer's daily routine, facilitating communion with God, seeking guidance, and expressing gratitude.

4. Discipleship: New believers benefit immensely from having mentors or discipleship relationships. Seasoned Christians who have walked the path of faith can provide guidance, wisdom, and support. This one-on-one or small group discipleship helps in navigating challenges, understanding biblical principles, and fostering spiritual growth.

5. Service and Ministry Involvement: Actively participating in the ministry of the church is crucial for growth. Engaging in service, whether through volunteering, assisting in various church activities, or participating in outreach programs, allows believers to discover and develop their spiritual gifts. Service not only benefits the church community but also plays a significant role in personal growth.

6. Accountability: Establishing accountability relationships is vital for spiritual growth. Having individuals or a small group who can provide honest feedback, support, and prayer creates an environment where believers can grow in transparency and humility.

7. Holiness and Character Development: Growing in Christ involves the continuous pursuit of holiness and character development. This requires intentional efforts to align one's life with biblical principles, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform character traits and habits.

8. Patience and Perseverance: Spiritual growth is a gradual process that requires patience and perseverance. Understanding that maturity takes time helps believers navigate challenges and setbacks without losing hope. Perseverance in prayer, study, and obedience contributes to enduring growth.

9. Evangelism: Sharing the Gospel with others, physically and virtually via social media, is an essential aspect of spiritual growth. It not only deepens one's understanding of the faith but also contributes to the expansion of God's kingdom.

10. Humility and Teachability: Cultivating an attitude of humility and teachability is crucial for continuous growth. Remaining open to learning from others, being receptive to correction, and acknowledging one's dependence on God fosters spiritual maturity.

Incorporating these key points into your journey of spiritual growth creates a holistic approach that addresses various aspects of your spiritual life, leading to a more robust and mature faith.