Lesson Scripture: 2nd PETER 1: 1-15
Key Scripture:
10 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, 11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Introduction
Second Peter is a letter of warning. It is the last communication from the words of peter for soon he will be martyred. It has been three years now since his first letter. It is here he writes to warn of complacency and heresy. It’s a letter of warning as well as instruction.
Lesson:
I. Partakers of the divine nature (2nd Peter 1: 1-4)
Peter here encourages with a reminder of the power of God, who is the source of all gifts. The goal of salvation is that we must be partakers of the divine nature. We are not the creator of the universe but the creature. Faith in Christ unites us to god. We are to live out the Christian life as we bask in the grace of God.
II. Is anything to be added to faith? (vs. 5-11)
Peter now lists the virtues for improving Christian life. He explains what is necessary for sufficient life. Faith is the core along with virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love, this we are to pursue, develop and cultivate. In practicing these, we will never fall from god’s grace.
III. Remember (vv.12-15)
Peter believes that we can never be reminded enough of god’s goodness. To be reminded stirs us to love and action. God’s goodness is too precious to be forgotten.
CONCLUSION:
Movie-maker and producer Spike Lee wrote a book entitled, “That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.”
The book was comprised of interviews of many celebrities, musicians, actors, actresses, and athletes. It was a testament to the intricacies of their experiences in obtaining success.
Regardless of their success, it was not an easy road. There were obstacles, oppositions, and opponents that would impede progress; nonetheless, they stuck to their dream, their aspirations, and hope. They had a story, and they stuck to their story.
And so it must be for the child of God. We have a story of the goodness of God, his mercy and his grace.
The Songwriter said, “this is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior, all the day long”
that’s our lesson for this coming Sunday, “Stick to your faith!”
Rev. Johnny H. Eskridge | St. Paul Baptist Church @ Shively Heights | Louisville, Kentucky