Throughout the Bible, believers are encouraged to grow in faith, maturity, and spiritual understanding. One phrase that often prompts reflection is "Put away childish things." This call for spiritual maturity urges Christians to leave behind behaviors, attitudes, and mindsets associated with childhood and embrace a more mature, Christ-like way of living. But what does this phrase truly mean within its biblical context? In this article, we will explore the meaning behind "Put away childish things," its significance for believers today, and how to apply this principle in our daily lives.
What Does the Bible Mean When It Says Put Away Childish Things
The phrase "Put away childish things" originates from 1 Corinthians 13:11, where the Apostle Paul writes, "When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things." This verse encapsulates the idea of transitioning from a naive, immature mindset to one of spiritual maturity. But to fully understand its meaning, we must consider the broader biblical context and the qualities associated with childhood versus maturity.
Understanding the Context of 1 Corinthians 13:11
In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul discusses the importance of love as the greatest virtue in Christian life. The chapter emphasizes that spiritual gifts and knowledge are temporary and imperfect, but love remains eternal. Toward the end of the chapter, Paul reflects on personal growth and maturity, using childhood as a metaphor for spiritual immaturity.
When Paul says, "When I was a child," he refers to a period of spiritual infancy—marked by limited understanding, selfishness, and dependency. "Putting away childish things" signifies leaving behind these immature traits as believers mature in faith, developing the fruits of the Spirit, and embracing greater spiritual insight and responsibility.
What Are the Childish Things the Bible Refers To?
- Selfishness and Self-Centeredness: Childhood is often characterized by a focus on oneself. In spiritual terms, immature believers may prioritize their desires over others' needs or God's will.
- Naivety and Lack of Discernment: Children may lack understanding of complex situations. Spiritually, this can translate to gullibility, misunderstandings of biblical truths, or a limited grasp of God's plan.
- Impulsiveness and Lack of Self-Control: Children often act on impulse without considering consequences. Similarly, spiritual immaturity can lead to rash decisions, uncontrolled emotions, or sinful behaviors.
- Divided Loyalties and Lack of Commitment: Young believers might struggle with consistency in faith or devotion, wavering in their commitment to Christ.
- Focus on Material or Temporary Things: Childhood tends to emphasize possessions or immediate gratification, whereas mature believers prioritize eternal values and spiritual growth.
Applying the Principle: How to Put Away Childish Things
Living out the biblical call to "put away childish things" involves intentional growth and deliberate effort. Here are practical ways believers can embody spiritual maturity:
- Develop Spiritual Disciplines: Engage regularly in prayer, Bible study, fasting, and worship to deepen your understanding of God's Word and His will.
- Practice Love and Patience: Strive to exhibit the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
- Seek Wisdom and Discernment: Grow in spiritual wisdom by consulting Scripture, seeking counsel from mature believers, and praying for guidance.
- Embrace Humility and Teachability: Recognize areas where growth is needed and be open to correction and learning.
- Prioritize Eternal Values: Focus on things that have lasting significance—faith, hope, love, service, and character development—rather than temporary pleasures.
- Overcome Selfishness: Practice putting others' needs before your own and serve actively within your community.
Signs of Spiritual Maturity
As believers grow, certain traits become more evident, signaling spiritual maturity:
- Consistent obedience to God's Word
- Ability to handle trials with patience and faith
- Humility and willingness to serve others
- Deep love for God and others
- Discernment in making decisions
- Stability and resilience in faith
Reflections and Relevant Bible Verses
Throughout Scripture, themes of growth and maturity are emphasized. Here are some key verses to reflect on:
- Philippians 3:13-14: "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
- Hebrews 6:1: "Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God."
- Colossians 1:28: "Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus."
- Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."
Conclusion: Embracing Spiritual Maturity
The biblical call to "put away childish things" is a powerful reminder for believers to pursue spiritual growth and maturity. It encourages us to leave behind behaviors rooted in selfishness, impulsiveness, and ignorance, and to cultivate qualities that reflect Christ’s character. This process involves intentional effort—through prayer, study, humility, and service—shaping us into vessels fit for God's purpose.
As we strive to grow in faith and understanding, let us remember that maturity is a continuous journey, not a destination. Each day offers an opportunity to shed childish habits and embrace the fullness of life in Christ. By doing so, we honor God's call to become more like His Son and to live out our faith with wisdom, love, and integrity.
