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2004•Journal of Psychology and TheologyRequires access

Proposed Levels of Christian Spiritual Maturity

Timothy S. Gibson

Open publisher page 35 citations

Abstract

Consideration is given to the ramifications of Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral reasoning for understanding Christian spiritual development. Utilizing Kohlberg's insights, four levels toward Christian spiritual maturity are identified: (a) accommodation to God's law, (b) respect for and obedience to God's law, (c) principle-centered commitment to a Christian worldview, and (d) Kingdom-centered commitment to God's glory. The discussion intends to challenge churches to foster an environment whereby people are more likely to reach a Postconventional level of spiritual maturity.

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What this paper is about

Consideration is given to the ramifications of Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral reasoning for understanding Christian spiritual development. Utilizing Kohlberg's insights, four levels toward Christian spiritual maturity are identified: (a) accommodation to God's law, (b) respect for and obedience to God's law, (c) principle-centered commitment to a Christian worldview, and (d) Kingdom-centered commitment to God's glory. The discussion intends to challenge churches to foster an environment whereby people are more likely to reach a Postconventional level of spiritual maturity.

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Available abstract

Consideration is given to the ramifications of Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral reasoning for understanding Christian spiritual development. Utilizing Kohlberg's insights, four levels toward Christian spiritual maturity are identified: (a) accommodation to God's law, (b) respect for and obedience to God's law, (c) principle-centered commitment to a Christian worldview, and (d) Kingdom-centered commitment to God's glory. The discussion intends to challenge churches to foster an environment whereby people are more likely to reach a Postconventional level of spiritual maturity.

Key concepts: Lawrence Kohlberg's stages of moral development, Maturity (psychological), Obedience, Glory, Psychology, Social psychology, Moral development, Christian tradition

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