Culture in Transition Pt. 12
I want to pose a thought for our consideration. One definition of the word mature is “having attained a final or desired state.” When does an individual attain maturity? This same question can be asked of today’s culture. What does a mature culture look like? Better still, what does a mature individual look like? The challenge is the same. In other words, the inability of the individual or the culture to mature is the same. Hebrews, chapter 5:11-14, sheds light on this.
“We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. (12) In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s Word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! (13) Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. (14) But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.”
The writer of this passage illustrates immaturity by using the illustration of a baby still dependent on milk. The inference is made that the baby was not meant to remain on milk. The baby’s growth now depends on solid food. The baby has matured to the degree that milk no longer suffices. The baby’s diet must change if the baby is to continue growing towards maturity. The point is made that there are teachers who are immature, needing others to teach them the elementary truths of God’s Word. These teachers are dependent on milk, not solid food. As a result, they are disqualified to teach others.
This entire illustration is used to point to the immaturity of our current culture. The point is made that the Word of God is necessary for the maturing of individuals living today. The Word represents solid food. It is also evident that a constant study and use of God’s Word will result in spiritual “maturity.” The result of this maturity is the ability to distinguish good from evil. A spiritually immature person will always be confused, or unable to discern between the two. Today’s culture reflects this immaturity because this is a spiritual challenge, and only the Word of God is sufficient to provide the nourishment required for continued growth. I encourage you to think about this reality. If this is a spiritual dilemma, it may also require a spiritual solution. The Word of God is a very good source for discerning truth because it represents the source of truth. God is Truth. Only the Bible represents God’s truth, and only God’s truth can make you free—mature!