Post by poetsunshine on Nov 28, 2010 13:43:31 GMT -6
GROWTH PROCESS.
PETER told his readers to give all diligent or every effort, to develop their faith. Christians have God’s promises, they share His nature, and they battle the corruption of this world.
Faith is the root from which all succeeding graces grow. Faith has two aspects; (1) belief, which is the beginning of a right relationship with God; and (2) sustaining faith, or the trust that is the strength of daily Christian living.
The quality of virtue speaks of moral excellence, and was used of the proper fulfillment of anything. The world knowledge suggests practical knowledge or discernment.
Next in the list is temperance or self-control. This is to be exercised in every area of life. Our instincts, drives, and desires do not master us, but through the presence of Christ dwelling with us, we can control them.
From the virtue of self-control springs patience, or perseverance. Power over that which is within is self-control, power over that which is without, perseverance.
This speaks of courage and endurance—a voluntary and daily enduring of difficulties for the sake of honor and usefulness.
To this steadfastness of character we should add godliness. It is a practical awareness of God in every aspect of life.
One aspect of godliness is brotherly kindness. Love among Christians is the distinguishing mark of true discipleship and represents yet another area where false teachers are deficient.
The crowning mark of maturity is charity. Paul wrote the greatest of these is love, in I Cor. 13:13.
"And now abideth faith, hope, and love, the greatest of these is love. Hope everyone has had a good Sunday, hope we can get back busy next week. Remember God loves you and so do I.
PETER told his readers to give all diligent or every effort, to develop their faith. Christians have God’s promises, they share His nature, and they battle the corruption of this world.
Faith is the root from which all succeeding graces grow. Faith has two aspects; (1) belief, which is the beginning of a right relationship with God; and (2) sustaining faith, or the trust that is the strength of daily Christian living.
The quality of virtue speaks of moral excellence, and was used of the proper fulfillment of anything. The world knowledge suggests practical knowledge or discernment.
Next in the list is temperance or self-control. This is to be exercised in every area of life. Our instincts, drives, and desires do not master us, but through the presence of Christ dwelling with us, we can control them.
From the virtue of self-control springs patience, or perseverance. Power over that which is within is self-control, power over that which is without, perseverance.
This speaks of courage and endurance—a voluntary and daily enduring of difficulties for the sake of honor and usefulness.
To this steadfastness of character we should add godliness. It is a practical awareness of God in every aspect of life.
One aspect of godliness is brotherly kindness. Love among Christians is the distinguishing mark of true discipleship and represents yet another area where false teachers are deficient.
The crowning mark of maturity is charity. Paul wrote the greatest of these is love, in I Cor. 13:13.
"And now abideth faith, hope, and love, the greatest of these is love. Hope everyone has had a good Sunday, hope we can get back busy next week. Remember God loves you and so do I.
