When I was a child I, along with many of my generation, looked longingly to the day when I would reach the magical age of 21 years. We (I and my generation) felt that then we would be adults! No one could tell us what to do, where to go, how to act, etc., etc. We could, if we so desired, enter into a legal contract (get a car), get married, drink, and have to account to no one.

Fortunately most of us matured mentally as we aged physically, and learned how ignorant we had been and how little we really knew even at age 21. Those who did not were in for rough times and a rude awakening.

From time to time we meet those who think they will one day reach the magical age of 21 years old as a Christian. That is, that they will at some point in the future know all that there is to know as a servant of God. Even more revolting is to be forced to deal with one who believes he is a 21 year old Christian."

While it is true that we can attain unto spiritual maturity (perfection-Eph. 4:12; Heb. 6:1), we remain a disciple (learner or pupil) of the Lord Jesus. If nothing else, the "21 year old Christian" needs to learn humility (Luke 14:11; Col. 3:12; 1 Pet. 5:5-6).

TRUTH MAGAZINE, XVI: 48, p. 9
October 12, 1972