MEMORY VERSE: 2 Peter 1:3 “As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue.”
TEXT: 2 Peter 1:1-14.
PRACTICAL TRUTH: Power for growth in grace is not as a result of human effort but God’s divine power.
INTRODUCTION:
Peter’s second letter serves two primary purposes: to warn believers about false teachings and to encourage their growth in God’s grace. In addition to a strong defense against falsehood, believers must cultivate a vibrant spiritual life to effectively confront error. This requires both a deep understanding of the truth and continuous growth in God’s grace.
OUTLINES
1. Power for Grace. 2. Pet. 1:1-3
2. Process of Growth. 2. Pet. 1:4-7
3. Product of Growth. 2. Pet. 1:8-11
4. Priority on Growth. 2. Pet. 1:12-14
1. POWER FOR GRACE (2 PETER 1:1-3)
In 2 Peter 1:1, Peter addressed those who had received a faith as precious as his own—fellow Christians. A Christian’s growth in godliness originates with God’s supernatural work of salvation (Ephesians 1:7). God declares righteous all who believe in Him and gives His Holy Spirit to empower them for a godly life. This transformation, or regeneration, is God’s miraculous work. Therefore, growth in God’s grace is not achieved through human effort alone, but through His enabling power.
As 2 Peter 1:3 states, God’s divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness. Just as God created human life in Genesis 2:7, He is able to take a spiritually dead person and impart spiritual life. Moreover, God’s power is sufficient and available to transform that person. God has called believers to glory and goodness. He is actively working to help Christians develop the holy character and moral excellence that reflects their heavenly Father. Godly living is not optional for some Christians, but a universal calling for all believers, as Ephesians 1:4 suggests.
2. PROCESS OF GROWTH (2 PETER 1:4-7)
Spiritual growth originates with God, yet it manifests through the believer’s personal diligence. Peter emphasizes that godliness is rooted in God’s promises (2 Peter 1:4). At salvation, God begins to reshape us into the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). He desires that Christians share in His moral character, walking, talking, thinking, loving, and making decisions as Christ did on earth.
It can be challenging for those in the painful process of spiritual growth to understand that God is refining them to be more like Him. That’s why God has given us His precious promises—reminders that His plans for us are good. At salvation, God rescues us from the slavery of sin, and spiritual growth is the process of further shaping us, reducing the world’s influence.
While God initiates spiritual growth through salvation, our development requires personal effort. Growth in grace and godliness is intentional, demanding our desire and active steps. This may involve limiting personal desires or pleasures to live a life pleasing to God. The process begins with faith, to which the Christian must add the seven qualities listed in 2 Peter 1:5-7.
3. PRODUCT OF GROWTH (2 PETER 1:8-11)
Spiritual growth, though potentially costly, yields invaluable results. Growth in godliness leads to a profitable life, and growth in grace produces a fruitful life (2 Peter 1:8).
A barren life is ineffective and worthless, while a life of spiritual growth is a blessing. A growing Christian benefits themselves and others, whereas an undeveloped Christian lacks clear vision and is spiritually blind (2 Peter 1:9). Anyone saved and growing in grace will not stumble (2 Peter 1:10). This growth provides stability when doubts arise. We can be assured that God rewards those diligent in pursuing Christian maturity (2 Peter 1:11).
Peter knew his readers understood how to grow in grace and its importance. Nevertheless, he stated, “I will not be negligent” (2 Peter 1:12). He was confident they had begun well and were growing. However, there was a risk of retreating from the truth they knew. Written shortly before Peter’s death, this letter reflects his understanding of his body as a “tabernacle,” a temporary dwelling (2 Peter 1:13). He felt a spiritual leader’s responsibility to remind them of their identity as Christians and God’s purpose for their salvation.
However, believers needed to diligently cultivate the character traits of spiritual maturity. Without prioritizing spiritual maturity, it would never occur, and they would live barren lives.