This state of affairs Paul directly links to their carnality. For hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal, verses 2-3.

3. It reduced their behaviour to that of children, verse 4. Here is the squabbling of children and it stems from their carnality.

III. THE EMENDING OF THEIR CARNALITY.

I believe Paul clearly indicates that their babyishness ought not to have been. When he uses the word yet in verse 3 he clearly indicates that he expected them to have left their babyhood behind. They continued as they had been rather than progressing spiritually. They were regenerated and were the children of God but they still acted and behaved to a large degree as worldly men, verse 3. 

1. Growth and advance is the requisite of the true child of God.

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby, I Peter 2:2.

2. Growth is of God, verse 6. 

3. Growth will only take place under God-ordained conditions. As it is in nature so it is in the realm of spiritual things.

A removal of the hindrances to growth. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls, James 1:21. (Act 7:58, Rom 13:12, Eph 4:22-25, Col 3:8, Heb 12:1, I Pet 2:1-2).

A seeking of nourishment. Ps 65:9-13, I Pet 2:2.

A living in the Sunshine  Malachi 4:2, Heb 12:1-2. Fellowship with God’s people, Eph 4:16, Col 2:19.

By this means we will grow in grace and so avoid the errors of the Corinthians.