Read II Peter 1 -- 3
In Today's Reading:
God's manifold graces; false teachers; certainty of Christ's return
This second letter begins with one significant thought: God . . . has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him Who has 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 you may 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; 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. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that you shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacks these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and has 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 inseparable. For our light affliction (trouble), which is but for a moment, works 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 you know these things . . . beware lest you also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness (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:
BP Staff: Ken Sharp · Pray for Dr. M.A. Thomas, Ministries of Emmanuel, Kota, North India; Hindi and Malayalam Coordinator for Bible Pathway · Government Officials: Rep. Rob Portman (OH) and Rep. Lynn Rivers (MI) · Country: Grenada (97,000) southernmost of the Windward Islands · Major language: English · Religious freedom · 61% Roman Catholic; 31% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Pray for understanding of His will as you read the Word of God (Psalm 25:5).
Memory Verse for the Week: Ephesians 5:7