Read 2 Peter 1
Highlights:
Don't forget the promise of a glorious life in Jesus in contrast to life in a sinful world (II Pet. 1:3-12). The Holy Spirit gave the prophecy that Jesus is coming (1:16-21). Don't believe everyone; false prophets and teachers are everywhere (2:1-22).
This second letter begins with one significant thought: God . . . hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue (II Pet. 1:2-3). The Holy Spirit led Peter to reveal how a life of godliness is made possible by appropriating the exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust (covetousness). And beside this, giving all diligence (make every effort), add to your faith virtue (moral excellence); and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance (self-control); and to temperance patience (patient endurance); and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity (Christian love). For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged (cleansed) from his old sins (II Pet. 1:4-9).
Spiritual maturity is a growing process for our entire life and is dependent on our laying hold of the equipping of the Holy Spirit through His Word.
God is concerned for His children's moral and spiritual health. Whatever in their lives is contrary to this brings about His loving discipline and correction. His holiness and His wrath against sin are inseparable. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world (I Cor. 11:31-32).
God has given us the freedom to choose to let His judgment work for us or against us. Beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever. Amen (II Pet. 3:17-18).
Thought for Today:
So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom (Ps. 90:12).
Cross Reference:
For II Pet. 2:15: See Num. 22:5,7. II Pet. 2:22: See Prov. 26:11.
Word Studies:
2.7 vexed distressed; filthy conversation immoral conduct; 3:16 wrest distort.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Government Official: Rep. Adrian Smith (NE) • Country: Mexico (99.7 million) in North America • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 89% Catholic; 6% Protestant; 3.5% None; 1.5% Other (Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Baha'i) • Prayer Suggestion: Call unto the Lord and He will give you strength to overcome (Jer. 33:3).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:33