We have finally reached the end of chapter 4! Paul gives us incredible insight into what it means to be a mature believer and accountable to the body of Christ. It is God’s purpose for all of us to be conformed to Christ and become mature believers. John explained that there are 3 basic maturity levels that we grow through — childhood, adolescence, and adulthood as explained in 1 John 2:12-14. Peter encourages us all to “…grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”
Paul give concise instructions to be followers of him! He states this in 2 Timothy 2:2 and Philippians 4:9, as well as in v.16. He reminds us of the truth that the Kingdom of God is physical, but spiritual. V.20 is reinforced by Romans 14:17 and 1 Corinthians 15:50. We are part of a spiritual kingdom through salvation – the new birth. The scriptures on the board are a great reinforcement to this truth.