And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. – 1Cor. 3:1-2
Paul speaks to Corinthians about there carnal ways which also applied to one who is young and week in Faith, here Paul teaches to Corinthians elementary truth about Jesus Christ as they were believers who lack in maturity) referring John 16:12 “I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.” So do Paul holds believers accountable to there carnality, as carnal man is saved in whom Holy sprit dwells but who tries to live Christian life on the same principle of unsaved man. So high spiritual plane remains bouncing and confuse there ability of understanding as they cannot see above their little world. Paul emphasises on spiritual Growth as one who come to Christ in his first stage is like babies who needs milk as they cannot digest meat this makes clear difference between Milk (for babies) and Meat (for grown ups), one of the babies attribute is there desires are self-centred, same as they new born believers rejoice greatly when they are new born believers but if they remain babies and won’t grow indefinitely they become annoyed to hearers. As milk is only good for first stage of growth.
Looking to grow, Acts 17:11 “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Spiritual growth only comes through studying word of God whole heartedly with obedience, as Hebrew 5:13-14 “For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” this verse encourages to grow to maturity and then to continue growing so that words abide in heart (Jer 15:16 “Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O Lord God of hosts.”). Scripture makes clear distinguish between Spiritual Christians (one who are controlled by Holy Spirit) and carnal Christians (one who are controlled by desires of the world). So let us urge to grow in spirit and keep digging scriptures every day and keep healthy spiritual life.
Amen.