John 15:15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.

In this world we seek promotion from others. In the military promotion can come due to time in service. If you have done nothing to be demoted, you may be granted a promotion just for time in service. One example is prisoners of war. Their time in service continues, promotions are merited because of time and if they are ever freed, they receive all their back pay at current rates for ranks given.

In the Kingdom life we first become servants, given commandments with expectations.

John 14:15 If you love me, keep my commandments.

In the Kingdom faithfulness is rewarded with promotion.

Matthew 25:21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

There is a transformation from a servant who is told nothing of why to obey, to a friend who is told the mysteries of the Kingdom. Only those who have proven themselves trustworthy are given access.

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

If you think this only applies to young children, allow me to remind you that anyone who is reborn in the spirit (John 3:3,5) becomes a babe in Christ and knows nothing of the Kingdom they just entered. This could happen at any age, even old age.