Growing in Christ (2 Peter 1:3-11)

7 May 2017
Pastor Art Brammer, Tay Street Baptist Church
http://www.taystreetbaptist.org.nz

It is not time that causes growth; it is teaching.

I. What is necessary to grow as a Christian (v. 3-4)

A. We must be called (we must belong to Him).
B. We have divine power (the Holy Spirit).
C. We must increase in our knowledge of Christ.
D. We become partakers of the divine nature.

II. In what ways we grow as a Christian (v. 5-7)

A. We will grow when we put effort into it (give all diligence).
B. Areas of growth:
1. Faith we can develop stronger faith through the promises.
2. Virtue aim to fulfill your designed or desired purpose.
3. Knowledge experiential knowledge applied to everyday life.
4. Self-control control temper, tongue & thoughts.
5. Patience trust in difficult circumstances.
6. Godliness an attitude of humility and submission.
7. Brotherly kindness love for others because of equal standing.
8. Love seeking the best interests of others even if it means
hardship, expense or sacrifice for us.

III. What growing in Christ means for my life (v. 8-11)

A. I will be fruitful (v. 8).
A lack = barrenness.
B. I can see the important things of life (v. 9a).
A lack = short-sightedness.
C. I will act like Christ (v. 9b).
A lack = fondness for old sins.
D. I will be firm, consistent in my spiritual life (v. 10).
A lack = we may stumble.
E. I will be welcomed into the everlasting kingdom (v. 11).
A lack = no abundant entrance.