It is essential for all humans to grow. Many do not grow in a wholesome manner. Because of this, they are immature and experience emotional turmoil. The Lord Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem and grew into a wholesome personality. Luke notes that the Lord grew up in wisdom, stature, and favour of God and man. (Luke 2:52) Disciples should be growing in four areas, as Jesus grew on this earth in his incarnation.
Spiritual: Favour is also translated as grace in the New Testament. The Son of God did not need the saving grace. Nevertheless, God the Father was glad, delighted, and pleased in the beloved Son of God. (Matthew 3:17) Those who receive the Lord become the children of the Living God. (John 1:12) As children of the living God, disciples should please the Father. A wise child of God brings joy to the Heavenly Father. (Proverbs 15:20) When a disciple brings a sinner to Christ, there is great rejoicing in Heaven before the Father and angels. (Luke 15:7)
Mental: The Lord grew in wisdom, which is a continuous process. The development earlier is also described. (Luke 2:40) All disciples should grow in mental strength, understanding, and attitude. Their mind should be saturated with the Word of God, renewed, and have a biblical worldview.
Physical: The Lord grew physically like any other normal human being. He grew perfectly, as normal for that age. Physical growth and fitness should be age-appropriate. The body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit; so it should be clean, pure, and holy. (I Corinthians 6:19) Like Paul, disciples are to discipline the body, to be used as instruments of righteousness by God. (Romans 6:13)
Relational: He also grew in human friendships and fellowships. The Lord loved all people without discrimination. Even he touched the lepers, treated women with dignity, transformed people, and healed many. The Lord’s relationship with people brought dynamic change in their lives. People like Zacchaeus, the Samaritan woman, and many others who met the Lord were transformed.
Do I grow in all four dimensions?