'Reclaiming Biblical Truths: Overcoming Bible Infantilization'

Bible Infantilization

The concept of infantilization, although not directly mentioned in the Bible, can be explored in light of Scripture. Infantilization refers to treating someone capable of more mature behavior or understanding as if they are a child. It involves coddling, babying, and keeping individuals in a dependent state, regarding them as helpless and not giving them responsibilities that they are fully able to handle.

The Bible does not support infantilization but encourages growth and maturity. In the book of Hebrews, the writer addresses immature believers and calls them to spiritual adulthood. He acknowledges that they are behaving like infants and need to be taught basic things about God's Word again. Just as babies need milk and cannot eat solid food, spiritually immature believers need to start with the basics before progressing to more advanced teachings. The author urges them to stop going over the fundamental teachings repeatedly and instead become mature in their understanding (Hebrews 5:11–14; 6:1–3).

Spiritual infantilization occurs when mature Christians are treated like babies and only given basic-level teachings. The apostle Paul compares this to feeding them milk or baby food when they should be advancing to heartier, more challenging instructions (1 Corinthians 3:2). The ultimate goal for believers is to grow up into full spiritual stature (Ephesians 4:13–15; Colossians 1:28; 2:2, 6–7; 4:12; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 13:11; James 1:4). Paul consistently encouraged himself and others toward Christian maturity and did not shy away from rebuking churches when they were acting immaturely (Philippians 3:12–14; Galatians 4:19; 2 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Timothy 6:11; 1 Corinthians 14:20; 3:1–3).

Infantilization, which stunts someone's growth or treats them as less capable than they are, goes against our calling in Christ. Instead, we are called to build ourselves and others up in the faith, nurturing fellow believers until we all become mature and attain to the fullness of Christ (Jude 1:20; Colossians 2:6–7; 1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 1:5–8; Romans 14:19; 15:2; 1 Corinthians 14:1–5; Ephesians 4:29; Hebrews 3:13; Ephesians 4:13).

Why This Matters

Understanding the concept of spiritual infantilization is crucial for believers because it highlights the importance of personal growth and maturity in the Christian faith. By recognizing the dangers of infantilization, we can avoid hindering our own spiritual development and the growth of others. It reminds us that we should not settle for a surface-level understanding of God's Word but strive to deepen our knowledge and apply it to our lives.

Think About It

• Have you ever experienced or witnessed spiritual infantilization in your church or Christian community? How did it impact your growth and the growth of others?
• What steps can you take to ensure that you are continually growing in your faith and not remaining stagnant in spiritual infancy?
• How can you encourage and support others in their journey towards maturity in Christ?