“Maturity” receives several definitions for different uses in language. A mature plant is one that is fully grown and developed. A bond that is due has matured. Something that has matured has come to a desired or full condition—it is ripe. These definitions—especially the first and third—are ever so applicable to the maturity of the Christian’s heart.
While it could never be said that any Christian has grown to perfection, Scripture reveals an inspired expectation that time in Christ will bring one to more maturity than when he or she began (Hebrews 5:12 -14). Sadly, though, it is often the case that those who have been Christians long have not matured in knowledge, discernment or character.
Immaturity of character is especially noticeable and troublesome. Such immaturity is illustrated biblically in the account of Miriam and Aaron chiding Moses, “‘Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has He not spoken through us also?’” (Numbers 12:2). Such jealousy of positions of authority shows immaturity of character. Miriam was struck leprous because of the incident (Numbers 12:9-10). Ananias and Sapphira could be labeled immature because they sought the approval of their peers at the expense of their integrity. They so wanted to look good that they lied about how much money they were giving. They lived, apparently, for attention. They were struck dead (Acts 5:1-11).
Numerous modern examples of these types of immaturity could be cited. Someone becomes upset because he doesn’t get as much time leading in worship services as one of his relatives. A jealous member seethes because he is not even considered by the congregation for the eldership. Immaturity often masquerades as pride.
Maturity in character might be defined as the fulfillment of one’s responsibilities—even sacrificially—whether one asked for those responsibilities or not. Consider Paul, a “chosen vessel” (Acts 9:15) who became a great preacher but suffered much for it (2 Corinthians 11:22-33). Yet, he handled it well. In Philippians 3, he listed some of his former claims to fame but rejoiced in counting them all loss for the sake of the knowledge of Christ. Then, he admonished appropriately, “Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind…” (Philippians 3:15). Such is maturity of character. Those who are mature fret not at the qualities or materials they do not have, but rejoice in coping with the responsibilities they have come to own.
