Gordon MacDonald, chancellor of Denver Seminary, recently shared a list of twelve outward signs that an individual follower of Jesus is maturing or being transformed (Leadership Journal, Summer 2012, p.31-34):
- Has an undiluted devotion to Jesus
- Pursues a biblically informed view of the world
- Is intentional and disciplined in seeking God’s direction
- Worships, and has a spirit of continuous repentance
- Builds healthy, reciprocal human relationships
- Knows how to engage the larger world
- Is aware of a personal “call” and unique competencies
- Is merciful and generous
- Appreciates that suffering is a part of faithfulness to Jesus
- Is eager and ready to express the content of one’s own faith
- Overflows with thankfulness
- Has a passion for reconciliation
So What?
MacDonald’s list reflects his current understanding as developed over four decades in ministry (for more on MacDonald, read my review of Who Stole my Church?). Recognizing that no follower is every fully mature, he clarifies that these marks indicate that someone is in the process of maturing rather than having attained that goal.
- Based on MacDonald’s list, are you a growing/maturing Christian? Explain.
- What items would you remove from this list? add to it? Provide a rationale for each proposed change.