Our culture has this weird idea that once you turn 18, you are an adult. From a legal perspective, I understand that we must pick an age to decide how to prosecute things. In some ways, we are extending adolescence, where someone could meet such qualifications well before age 18. 

Also, many people who do not act like adults are well beyond 18 years old. In some areas of life, what we used to expect of teenagers, we now don’t expect until 30 or even beyond.

Scripture has something different for the Christian. It uses words like “mature” or “discipline” often. It tells us to give up childish ways once we are adults (I Corinthians 13:11). It tells men to act like men (I Corinthians 16:13-14). 

Why? Because Christians are supposed to experience growth. They are expected to be fruitful. They are expected to control themselves with the help of God and the Holy Spirit.

Here are 4 ways to act like an adult

First, adults look after themselves. This does not mean that your parents have no care for you anymore. It does mean you know how to take care of yourself. You can get yourself to places on time without needing to be told. You take care of your responsibilities without anyone having to say to you.

Second, adults provide for themselves. This usually doesn’t happen overnight. Sometimes people build careers through college or learn a trade. These both may take a little time. But eventually, you don’t need anyone else to cover your expenses. If you are physically able, you should work hard, save money, and spend responsibly. 

Third, you control your sexuality. Mature sexuality is a controlled one. It is understanding that God has given it to you for marriage to bless your spouse and yourself. Mature sexuality says “this is a gift I can give someone, not something I will use with everyone and anyone recklessly.”

Fourth, your fun looks like adult fun. Becoming an adult doesn’t mean you end up having no fun. It doesn’t mean that you no longer get joy, play games, or laugh hard. It does mean that the kind of fun you do looks different than when you were a child and teenager.

An adult can act like an adult. They can control themselves fiscally, sexually, mentally, and emotionally. They take responsibility for themselves and do not need others to look out for and provide for them. In part, this is what we are called to as Christians.

Think About It

If you are of adult age, do you act like an adult?

Do you care for yourself or expect others to do it for you?

Are you responsible, or do you need others to tell you what to do?

Are you maturing in the way that God has called you to?

TOPICS: Adult, mature, discipline, responsibility, sexuality

Thanks for taking time to read this Maddening Theology post. If you enjoyed this content you can find Pastor Tim’s sermons at www.cornerstoneforestcity.org. You can also join us at 520 Marion St. Browndale, PA 18421 on Sundays at 10 AM. To make following the blog easier you can also register. You can also join us on Facebook at Cornerstone Forest City. Also, don’t forget to download our APP on iTunes  or Googleplay.