This truth is demonstrated in the phenomenal growth of the early church (Acts 2:41\u201d\u201c47). These first Christians turned the world upside down not because they discovered a trendy new way to \u201cdo church\u201d\u009d but because of their striking conformity to Jesus. Notably, the church grew as the believers \u201cdevoted themselves to the apostles\u2019 teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.\u201d\u009d Because devoting yourself seems to lack pizzazz, we tend to make spiritual growth more difficult than it is. But, with few exceptions, those who are growing in godliness are committed to preaching, the sacraments, and prayer. These are the ordinary means of grace. Spiritual growth doesn\u2019t require innovation because God doesn\u2019t work erratically and irregularly (Mal. 3:6). We don\u2019t have to \u201cfind God\u2019s wave and ride it\u201d\u009d until He surges elsewhere.<\/p>\n
Still, the means of grace don\u2019t always seem to work. Maybe we\u2019ve said, \u201cI come to church, partake of the sacraments, spend time in prayer, and I don\u2019t seem to grow.\u201d\u009d Assuming that we are diligently and believingly using the means, we shouldn\u2019t too easily dismiss the vital role they are playing in our lives. Imagine saying, \u201cI eat three times a day, but I don\u2019t get any healthier. Eating must not be the answer.\u201d\u009d What shape might we be in if we weren\u2019t being fed by God through His ordinary means?<\/p>\n
In our church, new members hear this admonition when they profess their faith in Christ: \u201cBy the diligent use of the means of grace and with the assistance of your God, continue in the profession which you have just made.\u201d\u009d Surely, exercises like maintaining godly associations, using edifying media, sharing our faith with others, engaging in works of service, making diligent use of time, and caring for our bodies will affect our spiritual wellness. But participating in preaching, baptism, the Lord\u2019s Supper, and prayer must regulate the routine of any healthy Christian.<\/p>\n