by Ralph Venning
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
This text has been initially updated from EEBO-TCP by Project Puritas (Logan West, David Jonescue, Alex Sarrouf) www.puritansearch.org. Further revision and editing done by Monergism. Copyright Monergism via universal text usage permission from the above.
"Christ's School" by Ralph Venning is a theological treatise that explores the concept of spiritual growth and maturity within the Christian faith. Venning introduces the idea that believers, or Christians, can be categorized into different stages of spiritual development, similar to classes in a school. These stages include Babes, Little Children, Young Men, and Fathers, each representing a distinct level of spiritual maturity and understanding.
Babes in Christ: These are new believers who are just beginning their spiritual journey. They are characterized by a basic understanding of Christian principles, akin to the first principles of religion, and are often still dealing with carnal tendencies. Despite their nascent faith, Babes in Christ are already part of the body of Christ and have begun their spiritual life.
Little Children: This group represents those who have progressed beyond the initial stages of faith. Little Children in Christ have a deeper understanding and have started to experience the assurance of God's love. They are characterized by a growing knowledge of God as their heavenly Father and are beginning to live out their faith with more confidence.
Young Men: These believers are marked by their strength in faith and the Word of God. They have a robust spiritual life and are often engaged in spiritual battles, overcoming temptations and evil influences. Their faith is active and dynamic, and they play a vital role in the spiritual warfare inherent in the Christian life.
Fathers: The most mature in the faith, Fathers in Christ possess deep wisdom and extensive experience in their spiritual journey. They have a profound understanding of Christ and His teachings and are often seen as mentors or guides for younger believers. Their spiritual journey has led them through various stages of growth, and they embody the fullness of faith and understanding.
Venning emphasizes that all these stages are important in the Christian community. He encourages believers to recognize their current stage, aspire to grow further, and respect others at different stages of their spiritual pilgrimage. The treatise underscores the diversity within the Christian community, where each member, regardless of their spiritual maturity, plays a vital role. It also highlights the continuous nature of spiritual growth, urging believers to seek deeper understanding and a closer relationship with God throughout their lives
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Table of Contents
READER
EPISTLE TO THE READER
I. The Introduction
II. Several things premised for the further clearing and understanding of this Subject, before I speak to each Classis.
III. A further continuation of the Praecognita, things to be premised.
THE FIRST CLASSIS OR FORM OF BABES.
THE SECOND CLASSIS IN THE SCHOOL OF CHRIST, VIZ. LITTLE CHILDREN.
THE THIRD CLASSIS IN THE SCHOOL OF CHRIST, VIZ. YOUNG-MEN.
THE FOURTH CLASSIS, OR, FATHERS IN ISRAEL.