Spiritual Growth
Spiritual Growth – What is it?
Spiritual growt
h is detailed in 2 Peter 1:3-8, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
So, spiritual growth includes:
(1) increasing in your knowledge and understanding of God’s Word,
(2) decreasing in your frequency and severity of sin,
(3) increasing in your practice of Christ-like qualities, and
(4) increasing in your faith and trust in God.
Perhaps the best summary of spiritual growth is becoming more like Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul says, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of what it truly means to be spiritual.
We understand that people are at different points in their spiritual journey and thus some studies and activities may appeal to some more than others. We strive to provide a full spectrum of spiritual growth opportunities for all ages and varying degrees of spiritual development.
At First UMC Park Ridge, “welcoming all” means that we see all persons as created in the image of God and bearing sacred worth and dignity. We invite all persons to participate fully in the life of our church regardless of age, race, ethnic background, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental condition, marital status, family situation, or economic standing. 
