Learning on the way
Sermon Summary: In this sermon from 2 Peter 1, Peter writes his farewell letter, knowing his death is near, emphasizing the importance of continual spiritual growth and development in the Christian life. He outlines how God’s divine power enables believers to live godly lives through the knowledge of His promises and presents eight essential qualities that Christians should develop: faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love.
Key Points:
God’s divine power provides everything we need for life and godliness
Spiritual growth requires both God’s power and our active participation
The eight qualities Peter lists are essential evidence of genuine faith
Continual spiritual growth is necessary to avoid becoming spiritually blind
Our pursuit of these qualities confirms our calling and election
Small Group Questions:
If you could leave one piece of advice or wisdom to your loved ones, what would it be and why?
How does Peter’s awareness of his impending death influence the urgency and content of his message?
What is the relationship between God’s divine power and our effort in pursuing spiritual growth?
Which of the eight qualities Peter lists (faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love) do you find most challenging to develop, and why?
How can we avoid becoming ‘spiritually nearsighted’ as Peter warns about in verse 9?
What does it mean to ‘confirm your calling and election’ in practical terms?
How does understanding God’s promises help us resist temptation?
Why do you think Peter emphasizes love as the final quality in his list?
What practical steps can we take to ensure we’re continually growing in our faith rather than becoming stagnant?
Key Verses: 2 Peter 1:3-4, 2 Peter 1:5-7, 2 Peter 1:10-11
Topics and Verses to go deeper this week:
Growth in Godliness and Christian Virtues: Galatians 5:22-23, Philippians 1:9-11.
The Power of God’s Promises: 2 Corinthians 1:20, Hebrews 6:18-19.
Perseverance in Faith: James 1:2-4, Hebrews 12:1-2.
The Call to Remember God’s Work: Psalm 103:2, Deuteronomy 8:11-14.
Spiritual Blindness and Its Consequences: Revelation 3:17-18, Isaiah 42:18-20
Confirming Your Calling: Romans 8:28-30, Philippians 2:12-13.
Living Out Love and Community: 1 Corinthians 13:1-7, John 13:34-35.
Assurance of Salvation: 1 John 5:11-13, Romans 8:38-39.
Application On The Way
This week, choose one of the eight qualities Peter mentions and intentionally work on developing it. Keep a daily journal of your efforts, challenges, and progress, noting how God’s promises and power help you grow in this area.