These very clear distinctions identify 3 stages of spiritual growth in God’s family.
“Fathers” the most mature, have a deep knowledge of the Eternal God. The pinnacle of spiritual maturity is to know God in his fullness (cf.Php3:10
“Young men”are those who, while not yet having the mature experience of knowing God in the Word and through life, do know sound doctrine. They are strong against sin and error because they have His word in Him. Thus they over come the wiles of the devil, who makes havoc of children (cf Eph 4:14) Since Satan’s efforts are in falsehood and deception, they have overcome him
“Children” are those who only have the basic awareness of God and need to grow. All are in God’s family and manifest Christ’s character at different levels.
1John 2:12-14 I am writing to you, ”little children, because your sins have been forgiven you for His name sake. I am writing to you fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I am writing to you young men, because you have over come the evil one. I have writing to you children, because you know the father. I have written to you, fathers because you know Him who has from the been beginning . I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome evil one.
