Book 3 in "Growth of a Faithful" Series

Edward F. Lundwall Jr.

Growth of a Faithful, Book Three – “Principles of Development”

In the development of their spiritual lives far too many people desire only to grow to what we have called the “Acceptance” and “Contentment” levels. This applies, not only to Christians and workers, but to many churches and theologies. Far too often of the view of being Christians is for the benefit of the individual, not for God. The Devil accuses Job of having this as his motivation for being godly:

“Then Satan answered the LORD, and said,”’ Doth Job fear God for nought? Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? Thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to thy face.” (Job 1:9–11) 

God purposes that churches be communities of disciples who have denied self centeredness to follow Christ (Acts 9:26; 11:26; 14:211–23; Luke 9:23, 24). Indeed, the greatness of Job’s godliness is clearly seen when contrasted with our times where the church not only fails in times of testing, but is “lukewarm” in the midst of prosperity (Rev. 3:14–22). 

The New Testament Christians’ purpose is “…to the praise of His glory”(Eph. 1:6, 11, 14). God receives glory as we, Christ’s disciples, function as branches of redemption (John 15:8), by being His instruments to “…make known…the manifold wisdom of God…to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 3:10). Indeed, when a Christian or Church does not manifest godliness and a Christ-centeredness, it becomes doubtful that they have really received “…The grace that bringeth salvation…..” (Titus 2:11–14).

Book 3, “Principles of Development” focuses on a Christ centered and Christ serving way of life to help the disciple center on God’s interests and program as the reason for spiritual growth (Rom.12:1, 2; 4:1, 11–16; Heb. 12:1–4). “He died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them, and rose again.”(2 Cor. 5:15)

This third study booklet as well as all the others in the Growth of a Faithful series may be purchased singly for $2.50 or in packages of five for $10.00 by sending a money order or check to the following address:

Edward Lundwall 

P.O. Box 735 

Rossville, GA 20741