Bible Pathways - December 19, 2005
December 19, 2005
Read 2 Peter 1
In Today's
God's manifold graces; false teachers; certainty of Christ's return
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 Peter 1:2-3). Peter's key thought is that 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 (1:4). It is of utmost importance that we recognize we are the Body of Christ, and members in particular (I Corinthians 12:27). And beside this, giving all diligence (earnestness), add to your faith virtue (uncompromising morality); and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance (self-control); and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity (Godlike 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 Peter 1:5-9).
Since the first concern of God is for His children's moral and spiritual health, whatever in their lives is contrary to this necessarily brings about His loving discipline and correction. His holiness and His wrath against sin are to be feared. For our light affliction (trouble), which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory (II Corinthians 4:17).
God has given us the freedom to choose to let "affliction" work for us or against us. Beloved, seeing ye know these things . . . beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness (II Peter 3:17-18).
Cross Reference:
For II Peter 2:22: See Proverbs 26:11.
Word Studies:
2.7 filthy conversation = immoral conduct; 3:16 wrest = distort.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast for sponsored by James M Eicher · Staff: George Kopchak · Government Official: Rep. Rob Portman (OH) · Country: Botswana (1 million) in southern Africa · Major languages: English and Setswana · Limited religious freedom because of local chiefs · 49% animist; 21% Protestant; 4% Roman Catholic · Prayer Suggestion: Thank God for His mercy to cleanse from all sins (Psalm 51:2).
Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Peter 2:22
