For as long as I can remember, growing up as a believer of the Christian faith, most, if not all emphasis was placed on the growth of our spirit man. This, indeed I believe to be the most integral part of our existence, however as I began to grow in understanding and wisdom through God’s word, it’s become more and more evident to me, how equally important other aspects of our human nature are and how we need to make them a priority for balanced living.

The church in which I grew up never had an approach to grow the believer holistically. The idea of equipping oneself intellectually was not encouraged and completely frowned upon, it was perceived as “worldly”. Often times scriptures such as Ecclesiastes 12:12 was used to drive this ideology: “Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body” These, amongst many other scriptures and doctrines were used as ways to keep believers of Christ away from tertiary studies, being viewed as secular.

It is my sincere belief that we have to equip the Body of Christ in all facets of their lives, whether it is spiritually, mentally (intellectually), physically and/or socially. The idea is for us to live wholesomely and balanced. As Sons of God, we will only be able to fulfil our purpose and mandate, if we practice this model. Our dominion and influence comes from the worlds perception and reception of us as the Church of Jesus Christ. Our spirituals songs and elaborate sermons become meaningless in a world where the tangible exists and where intellect persists. It is not for us to be influenced by them, but to prove our relevance by being able to master both the earthly and spiritual realms.

Luke 2:52 declares: “And Jesus grew in wisdom(mentally) and stature (physically), and in favour with God(spiritually) and man(socially).”

This portion of scripture has provided us with a secret model to follow.

At our ministry, we base our training on this example.

Some refer to it as the Four Quadrants of training.

In applying the Four Quadrants, we aspire to train the individual spiritually through the Word of the Lord, teaching and installing biblical principles in individuals. Physical training is based on health, the importance of exercising, our hygiene, etiquette, etc. Socially we look at relationships, decorum, mannerism, etc. And lastly, our intellectual training is focused on career guidance, tertiary education, skills training and development, etc. The main objective is to grow well- rounded individuals.

It is only through balanced living and an acceptance to the reality that not only the spiritual man can be fed, that we will continue to grow in Christ and make a true impact.