2nd Peter

REAL VALUES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF KINGDOM LIVING

Introduction:

One of the most serious neglects in the lives of present day Christians is the failure to understand the importance of character building principles.

By this, I do not mean the normal psychological "feel good" ego boosters which are spoon fed to impressionable high school and college students (ie: self esteem, situational ethics and worth/value ego-centered human sexuality classes).

Nor do I mean the constant flow of popular culture "do-goodism" social programs which feed the "soulish" nature of man and gives him of false sense of spiritualism (ie: prisoner rights, "medical" drug and alcohol programs, homosexual rights, animal rights, etc).

In addition, I am not speaking of the deluge of Eastern religions which promote multi-god theologies, re-incarnation, pantheism --the doctrine that God is the transcendent reality of which the material world and humanity are only manifestations-- (Webster) and the equally deceptively destructive doctrine that animal life possesses the same virtues and intrinsic values as human life, thereby answering all questions concerning abortion, the killing of "non-viable - unwanted- babies" and euthanasia, the killing of sickly "non-viable" -unwanted- adults.

Rather, my remarks will be directed at the clear and uncluttered Biblical characteristics which are to be sought and acquired by the honest, seeking, and "willing to adjust" Christian. We cannot plead ignorance to the clear distinctives set forth in the Bible which define the behaviors and goals of our Christian life.

And, why should we? After all, God is plainly desirous of our success and willingly makes the way clear and easy for us to understand. The reason we falter so much at His commands ..... stumble so much as we walk the Christian pathway .... and choke so much as we feed on His Word is that we live too much in the flesh and not enough in the Spirit.

"Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh." Galations 5:16

(2 Pet 1:1 KJV) Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:

(2 Pet 1:2 KJV) Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,

A. "... like precious faith..."

What a great joy to have faith like the Apostles.

To believe God and His Son, Jesus.

To pray in faith.

To expect heavenly intervention.

To look for Jesus’ return.

YOUR NOTES:

B. "... through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ."

God, through His Son, has made our faith possible.

Man has no hope if he doesn’t have God.

Man’s faith is in the material things he can see.

The Christian’s faith is in what he cannot see. (Heb. 11)

Our faith is anchored in the holiness of God.

YOUR NOTES:

C. "...Grace and peace be multiplied unto you ..."

God’s blessings are ever increasing.

Grace -- "unmerited favor" mercy; clemency; pardon.

Peace -- "a state of tranquility or serenity."

Our lives are to be overflowing with these realities.

Grace and peace are personal rewards for trusting God.

YOUR NOTES:

D. "...through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord."

Our level of blessing is directly influenced by our knowledge of God and His Son, Jesus.

Man has no ability to rest in his sins.

Life is a perpetual circus of irritations without Christ.

Our knowledge of Him shapes our decisions and behavior.

If we know that God is our Father and that we are not the result of some cosmic explosion, or the evolution of an animal species, or the resulting fruit of a swamp ameba, then our life will have meaning and purpose. We will desire the Father’s blessing and will be anxious to obey His commands.

YOUR NOTES:

(2 Pet 1:3 KJV) According as his divine power 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:

(2 Pet 1:4 KJV) Whereby are given unto us 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.

E. "According as His divine power hath given us ...."

God’s power is the authority which empowers our ability to have grace, peace and knowledge in our life.

It is also His power that grants life and Godliness to finite humans.

It is His purpose that we be properly equipped for natural and spiritual victory.

We cannot earn this position. It is a gift which accompanies the new birth.

YOUR NOTES:

F. "... all things that pertain unto life and Godliness,"

The key is the knowledge of Christ. Who He is; what He has done; where He is; what He is doing. To know these things assures any man or woman a solid and constant victory.

God wants us to know. One of the Holy Spirit’s gifts of maturity to us is the ability to discern between Godliness and unrighteousness.

(1st Cor. 2:9-16; Heb. 5:14)

Life -- ZOE -- spiritual life. Living in the Spirit.

Godliness -- LIKE GOD -- Our natural life being influenced by His attributes. Goodness ... holiness ... selflessness ... compassion ... forgiveness ... etc.

YOUR NOTES:

G. "... through the knowledge of Him that called us to glory and virtue"

We must be aware of the importance of having a mind set concerning the truth of our calling.

The enemy will war against your confidence.

We experience spiritual ecstasy (glory) because we know Him.

Our lives are clean (virtuous) because we know Him. This word (arete) translated virtue means "intrinsic (inherent) value, moral excellency, and goodness.

YOUR NOTES:

H. "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises:"

This seemingly redundant expression is used to add emphasis to the point. They are not merely GREAT .... they are EXCEEDING GREAT.

They surpass all normal and mundane promises (man’s words) and stand as superior for they come from God.

These promises are also precious .... FULL OF LIFE. God’s words always give life, which is the most precious of all human possessions. But, because they are God’s words, these promises have the added dimension of eternity (eternal, never ending life).

YOUR NOTES:

(2 Pet 1:5 KJV) And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

(2 Pet 1:6 KJV) And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;

"Peter gives us a progressive list of Christian virtues that, when established in our lives, will cause us to be fruitful in the very knowledge of God. The life that comes from the knowledge of God can produce only good in its response to others. To fail to grow in Christ results in an inability to perceive the blessings received in initial salvation so that our identification with Jesus is forgotten or ignored." Spirit Filled Life Bible

E. "And beside this, giving all diligence ....."

The word, diligence, reflects a sense of zeal and constancy. It is a call for the believer to be determined to pursue Christian principles and virtues.

It is a call for purposeful work; perceived direction.

The failure of any Christian to be consistent and faithful in the following virtues will bring loss to his life. (2nd Peter 1:9)

It is difficult for any person to live up to the expectations of their responsibility because of the nature of the flesh. (Recent failures: high ranking Army officer; Presidential advisor; O.J. Simpson; Princess Di; and so forth.

Without diligent attention to these virtues, even a Christian will fail and fall into sin. Slothfulness begets inattention, followed by stagnation.

YOUR NOTES:

F. "... add to your faith virtue,"

As I mentioned in section 2, virtue is defined as "intrinsic value, moral excellency and goodness". It is thought by some commentators that this word reflects the miracle power of God working in one’s life. For, after all, how can a man or woman be truly pure and morally excellent if they leave God out of their life?

Peter seems to imply, by the positioning of the words in this verse, that virtue is a character trait which is to be achieved after faith has been established in one’s life. He also seems to imply that the individual is responsible to acquire this characteristic by their own initiative.

The command puts the burden upon the one who has faith. In other words ... "you are commanded to find and obtain virtue (purity, morality, goodness)."

A life of faith is continually active in the seeking for, and possession of, these stated attributes.

YOUR NOTES:

G. "... and to virtue knowledge"

God does not want His children to be ignorant of Him or His Word. We are admonished to know His commandments and to obey them. If we do not know what He expects, we will follow the natural conduct of the flesh and make up our own rules.

It is not possible for a person to fight sin, the world and the devil unless he has received divine revelation which teaches him about the behaviors and consequences of a Christ-less life.

When we try to live a Christian life without the knowledge of Him, we blindly stumble along falling into all sort of difficulties.

Remember, it is not the knowledge of the world which the Christian needs. We must have spiritual and experiential knowledge about God, His Word (Christ and the Bible), and the ministry of His Holy Spirit.

YOUR NOTES:

H. "And to knowledge temperance ....."

This attribute, self-control, is one of the most difficult of all for the average Christian to master. The flesh does not like limitations or restraints. Yet, our flesh must learn to obey the Spirit which teaches us that there is a proper time to behave in any particular way.

Some people want to use their "liberty" as an excuse for doing questionable activities.

Others have not learned the importance of guarding their tongue and practicing a righteous discipline in what they speak and how they speak.

Similarly, a Christian must not exhibit fits of rage and temper regardless of the apparent "right" to do so. In spite of the urge to release a brilliant comeback, one that will fry your heckler’s ears and skewer his tongue to the roof of his mouth, you must refrain from such action. Remember, your behavior testifies of your nearness to, or distance from, your Lord.

YOUR NOTES:

I. "..... and to temperance patience ...."

The quality of patience (the ability to hold out, to continue, to last, to endure) in the face of opposition and attack is vital to the overcoming Christian. You are in a spiritual battle and you will be confronted by difficult obstacles every day.

The challenge is to be constant in spite of the attacks. If you loose patience, you loose ground. Refuse to be moved; stand still; guard your heart and mind; do not give in to the enemy.

The enemy, whether a person or a spirit, hopes to "get your goat". If you show a tendency to loose strength, to weaken, the attack will become more intense. Like a wild animal sensing the desperation of the prey, the enemy will hound you until you drop.

The key is to outlast the enemy. How can we do it? By having faith, virtue and knowledge. These three attributes are the "Power Team" in the believer’s life.

YOUR NOTES:

J. .... "and to patience godliness ..."

The average Christian demonstrates more "human-ness" than godliness. ‘Tho we are instructed in the Bible to walk in the Spirit (Galations 5:16) we mostly walk in the flesh. And, of course, we cannot help ourselves when we act like a sinner (carnal) because we are overcome by the influence of the flesh. (Such is the argument, anyway.)

Godliness denotes sanctity (holiness); piety (devotion); sacredness (love of God); reverence (respect, worship).

The Christian’s behavior is viewed against the backdrop of purity and goodness. His actions are weighed on the scales of righteousness. In direct juxtaposition (comparison) he is found to be worthy or flawed.

His good influence upon family, friends, and the general public is determined by his quality of godliness. It cannot be forced, imagined, or faked. If godliness isn’t really present, his life will bear the fruit and the scars of hypocrisy.

Do not strain against the yoke of godliness ...... yield to it’s wonderful and beneficial blessings. You, and your family, will be comforted by it’s influence.

YOUR NOTES:

(2 Pet 1:7 KJV) And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.

(2 Pet 1:8 KJV) 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.

K. "And to godliness brotherly kindness ....."

The reference to brotherly kindness seems to indicate that the Apostle Peter is encouraging "civility" within the church family.

ie: relationships, attitude, acceptance, forgiveness, long-suffering, etc. (Romans 12:10)

Some of the deepest wounds are caused by brothers and sisters in the "family" circle. (Gal. 6:10)

Our brotherly kindness should be patterned after sibling devotion and love and not sibling rivalry.

Consider this question: "If you do not treat your Christian brothers and sisters with kindness and love .... is it really possible for those virtues to be honestly expressed to others?"

Kindness, in and of itself, denotes caring, compassion and sacrifice. If you include the word brotherly you add the emphasis and requirements of a Christian relationship. (Col. 3:12)

In a world populated by wicked people who despise Christians and seek every possible way to hurt and discredit them ..... brotherly kindness becomes a safe haven/desert oasis to the Christian community.

YOUR NOTES:

L. "... and to brotherly kindness charity."

Charity, as used here, is not the benevolent gifts of a kind hearted person who gives material things to assuage suffering. There is a place in our Christian life for charitable giving. Indeed, we are to consider the needs of others and be a "Good Samaritan" whenever possible. You do not have to be a Christian to do charitable activities. Many non-Christian people and organizations do marvelous work in this area.

Charity, as used here, means AGAPE (God’s love). The Apostle Peter emphasizes the need for grown men and women to show Christian (Godly) love to one another. Not sensual - not sexual - not filial - not familial - but ..... Godly!

It must be a love that is forgiving. It must be a love that is patient. It must be a love that is protective. It must be a love that is faithful.

Most of our Christian relationships seem to be based on a sort of "cautious friendship". A sort of "I like you" mentality. (Just don’t bug me, cross me, or get in my way!)

We are taught in Scripture to rise to a higher level of relationship. One in which "Agape" love influences our life and transcends all other emotions. (Matt. 22:39; John 13:35; John 15:12; Rom. 12:9; 1st Peter 1:22; Eph. 3:17,18; Eph. 5:2; Col. 3:14; 1st John 4:16 ... just to list a few.)

Think on this: Consider how God, through Christ, has loved you. That is how He wants us to love one another. (John 15:12)

YOUR NOTES:

M. " For if these things be in you and abound ..... "

That little word "if" always stands as a sentry between the reward and the requirements. It is the bridge over to the side of glory and victory. (If my people .... 2nd Chron. 7:14; If thou canst believe .... Mark 9:23;

If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed .... Matt. 17:20;

If ye forgive men their trespasses .... Matt. 6:14; If I but touch the hem of His garment .... Matt. 9:21; If he gain the whole world .... Mark 8:36; If any man thirst .... John 7:37; If the Son therefore shall make you free .... John 8:31)

The challenge is for us to possess all the virtues which the Apostle Peter has listed. We cannot pick and choose.

In fact, these virtues are not to merely be in us (dormant) but they are to abound.

Multiply --- Teem --- Take over --- Have a controlling influence.

We must not practice a sparingly and miserly discipline in our possession of and our living out of these virtues.

It is anticipated and expected that the sincere Christian will desire all of these spiritual graces. We ought never be pleased when our life is devoid of any one of these virtues.

Our Christian life must not be like a "stripped down" version of a classy automobile. Looks like a Cadillac but rides and runs like a jalopy. We must not look like one thing (have the right name, plus a few of the basics like tires, windshield wipers, and floor mats) but in truth be a phony; a look-a-like; a pretender.

YOUR NOTES:

(2 Pet 1:9 KJV) But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.

(2 Pet 1:10 KJV) Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:

(2 Pet 1:11 KJV) For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

N. "But he that lacketh these things is blind ....."

The fact that a Christian can be saved and not allow these disciplines to work is his life is evidence that everyone is not responsive in the same way. This helps us understand why we see so many variables in the lifestyles of the church family. If the graces listed in the preceding verses are absent, then the believer is subject to the influence of the flesh ..... which will always cause him to respond in an unchristian, unbiblical way to various stimuli (circumstances). The Apostle Peter, adds an especially strong emphasis when he states that blindness results in the absence of these "things". Of course, he does not mean physical blindness, but rather, spiritual. It is not possible for us to know, understand, or practice true Christian living without the influence of the listed characteristics. Spiritual blindness indicates that one does not have good or even adequate perception of the importance of living a sacrificial/self-denying Christian life. Not having "true" sight causes one to err and stumble at the slightest provocation.

O. " ... and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins."

One of the most important qualities of a "sighted" Christian is his ability to discern the reason for godly living. Firstly, not only does he have an immediate (present time) impact by living a "gifted" Christian life but he also understands the lasting impact (future) which his actions influence. Secondly, he must also realize that if he lacks these things it is testimony that he is still being swayed by his old life. The very nature of these graces dictates that one responds to everything and everyone with a kind, gentle and helpful attitude.

Our mind needs to be constantly reminded that our life is to reflect our deliverance from sin. It takes concentrated effort to allow these Christian graces to develop in one’s life. Because we are human, we are regularly confronted and challenged by our flesh. We are reminded at every turn that we have a "right" to respond in a "normal" way. It is imperative that we conquer this "voice" of the flesh and make ourselves remember that we have been purged from our old sins.

The word "purged" signifies purification, cleansing and elimination. God washes us clean from our old (carnal/fleshly behavior) sins. Our "sin" ( Adamic separation) is cleansed by the blood of Jesus at our new birth. At that time, we are also cleansed (forgiven) of our past acts of sinfulness. We are given a new canvas on which to paint this "new" life we are now to live. Whatever we paint shows whether we are living the new life He has given us or continuing the old life with it’s carnal and hateful ways.

YOUR NOTES:

P. "Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure ....."

Living the Christian life is not always easy and especially not so in the area of behavior and relationship. We must give diligence (constancy, zeal, alertness) to make certain that no hindrance is allowed to exist which might jeopardize our eternal future. Constant effort must be expended to guard against intrusive influences which cause us to behave in an unchristian way, thereby bringing reproach against the Lord’s precious name.

In addition, our calling ( salvation/ sonship) and election (God’s sovereign stamp of approval) must be viewed as something to gain or lose. Our conversion to Christ involved our willful choice. Likewise, our refusal or neglect to abide by the Apostle Peter’s stated principles and characteristics of the Christian life is also by our choice. Our eternal future will be determined by our choice to abide in the vine (Christ) or live in the flesh. Regardless of some efforts to make salvation a "once possessed never lost" fact, this scripture, along with other similar verses shows the direct effect that undisciplined living will have upon one’s eternal future. THINK ABOUT IT ! (John 15:6,7; Matt. 25:30; 1ST Cor. 9:27)

A point which is often missed in discussions of topics such as this is that we can "make our calling and election SURE". God provides the way for us through Christ’s sacrificial atonement but it is not without effort on our part. Truly, we cannot provide the sacrifice for sin but we can provide the abstinence from sin. The typical human response is to put all of the responsibility for our salvation on God. But there is a two-fold responsibility. Namely, our faith demonstrates that we throw ourselves on the mercy of God and His provision; our faithful Christian living (works) demonstrates that we acknowledge our accountability. If we try to have one without the other we thwart the plan of salvation and invalidate what God wants to accomplish in us. (James 2:14-20; Eph. 2:8-10). Those people who argue that Paul and James had a religious debate over this subject miss the point entirely. Both of them are saying the same thing! Christ provides the sacrifice for sin; we provide the changed lifestyle.

Consider this illustration: The King of an earthly kingdom rejoiced at the birth of his new son. As the son grew, he was taught and reminded of the rules concerning his life as the King’s son. He was instructed to abstain from those things which would bring shame and reproach upon the King. In fact, to violate these rules would mean that he would forfeit his right to be a part of the monarchy. But the son rebelled and lived an undisciplined life. He brought much shame and reproach on the King and the Kingdom. By violating his father’s law (rules) he willfully thrust himself out of the Kingdom, yet remained a son of the King. His sonship did not cost him the Kingdom. Rather, he lost the Kingdom by his own rebellious actions.

YOUR NOTES:

Q. "for if ye do these things ye shall never fall."

This is a tremendous promise which adds great weight to the importance of Christian behavior and attitudes. It is an absolute and emphatic promise. One might ask, "How could such a definite promise be made ?" The answer is rather simple. If we are committed to the Christian life and are zealous about obeying the Lord we will do everything in our power to please and honor Him. In the process of doing that, we will gladly observe all of the relationship and attitude rules thus ensuring a "will not fall" guarantee. It’s so wonderfully simple. Yet it is the greatest challenge of our life. To obey God and to love our neighbor as we love ourselves is a fulfillment of the Law (Matt. 22:36-40).

WHY IS IT SO HARD FOR CHRISTIANS TO DO THAT?

The emphasis of this verse is in the doing. It is to be the living of a Christian lifestyle and not an occasional jab at doing right. Some people sporadically do the right thing. This verse powerfully makes the point for continual right living. If you want to insure that you will never fall ....... let faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience and godliness abound in you.

YOUR NOTES:

R. "For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly ... "

This is an intriguing verse to me because it indicates that there will be a great celebration of welcome when the conquering Christian arrives at the gates of glory. And what makes it even more exciting, is that it will be a personal "victory party". The Apostle Peter seems to be saying that each and every conquering believer will be joyously escorted into the Kingdom.

God will spare no effort at this welcome home celebration. The word "abundantly" illustrates how awesome and spectacular the welcome will be. (I think heaven’s choir will sing, Gabriel’s orchestra will play, and the Prophets and Apostles will be at the head of the greeting line!) God will show That He is the creator of the real "welcome home" party.

The Bible states in Luke 15:7, that there is great joy in heaven over one sinner that repents. The implication is that all of heaven (the Trinity as well as the angels) rejoices.

But ..... the real celebration is when that redeemed one actually enters the gates of that great city. As one song writer has said, "Oh, my Lord, what a day!"

" .... into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

We are fraught with decay and corruption in our earthly, human life. At any given time, we can view death, depravity, and perversion as the population hurdles toward judgment. We see kingdoms rise and fall; presidents exalted and abased; personalities magnified and then minimized. The daily ritual of eating, sleeping, sickness, joy, sorrow, disappointment (etc.) reminds us of our mortality.

But His kingdom is forever. No death, no disease, no brokenness, no separation, no end!

When you see the word "Lord" as it relates to Jesus, always mentally understand that it refers to His Sovereign role in your life. He occupies the "throne" of your heart. He is Master.

When you see the word "Savior" remember that this word refers to His act of sacrifice on Calvary when He died in your place to pay the just penalty for sin. Thereby, He is your Redeemer, your Rescuer. He has saved you from the penalty and judgment of sin.

YOUR NOTES:

(2 Pet 1:12 KJV) Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth.

(2 Pet 1:13 KJV) Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance;

(2 Pet 1:14 KJV) Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath showed me.

(2 Pet 1:15 KJV) Moreover I will endeavor that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.

(2 Pet 1:16 KJV) For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

S. "Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things ..."

One of the important challenges of our Christian faith is the requirement that we faithfully ‘pass on’ what we have learned (experience) and what we know (understanding). The Apostle Peter, makes a bold promise (it could be viewed as a covenant) that he will be faithful to the responsibility of ‘sharing’ the wonderful truths he knows. He will not be silent about his faith.

Likewise, we must understand the importance of our faithfulness in disseminating biblical truths. Surely we understand that our willingness to share the gospel is testimony to what the gospel means to us. If we view biblical teachings, history, personalities, and faith as just the Christian perspective of life, and not the real answer to life, the impact upon our family and the world will be insignificant.

Some people seem to grow weary of the repetition of biblical truths. The fatigue of telling, and of hearing, ‘the same old stories’ causes them to mentally close their ears. (I suppose this is a human factor; it is one of the great obstacles in ministry.) However, we cannot permit that problem to influence us in our determination to remind people of biblical truths.

The Apostle Peter was consumed by what he knew to be true. Our grasp of ‘truth’ will directly affect our determination. If we have a very small understanding of ‘these things’ we will be careless about our testimony and our desire to influence others will be minimal. If we are ‘consumed’ by what we know and understand, we will be like Peter and John who said, "For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard". (Acts 4:20)

The ‘these things’ to which the Apostle refers are the Christian graces and behaviors which he has presented in the previous verses.

T. " ... though ye know them, and be established in the present truth."

Just because we "know" the truth does not mean that we should not be reminded of it’s factors. We tell our children the same truth many times in order to reinforce it’s importance. We diligently teach them about personal hygiene, various dangers to avoid, how to do certain things, etc. If our child appears to "forget" some truth that he knows, we repeat the truth in order to re-teach. As good parents, we will continue this process throughout life. (Sometimes we are an annoyance to our children!)

The Apostle Peter admits that his readers "know" these truths, yet he takes the time to write them down. (No typewriters, word processors or computers in his day!) He expends the energy and effort to tell them something they already know. This is, to me, an indication of his sense of urgency concerning the importance of reminding the Christian family of the correct way they ought to live and behave. (In fact, it is the Holy Spirit who anoints Peter to write these words. These are not just Peter’s thoughts, they are God’s thoughts.)

Sometimes, "old saints" can’t be told anything! They stubbornly refuse to change their attitude and behavior. Whereas they have been part of the church for many years, and have been "established (previously taught) in the truth (they know what’s right)" they have become cold, hardened, cynical, critical, unloving and self-righteous! Yes, the Apostle had some of those folks too! Remember this Epistle was written about 70 years after Christ which is plenty of time for the typical Christian to grow weary of living a committed life and succumb to the more typical "going through the motions" mentality (another way of saying hypocrisy).

YOUR NOTES:

U. "Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance;"

This verse is humorous to me. (I mean that in a good way.) Peter acknowledges that the more he thinks about it the more he realizes that the average Christian is so bone-headed that he must be reminded of these "things" on a regular basis.

The word ‘meet’ simply means proper, suitable, appropriate. He feels strongly about the "rightness" of his approach.

In fact, he states that as long as he lives ("in this tabernacle") he intends to be a spokesman for these truths. In doing so, he commits to personally living these truths. One cannot successfully teach or train another in the Christian life if he, himself, is devoid of the virtues and characteristics of that life.

The Apostle acknowledges that he will be a "pain in the neck" for some people because he will "stir them up" by making them remember. How do you feel when someone points out your failures and sins by reminding you that you know better than to do those things. They might say something like, "How could you do that? Don’t you know what the Bible says about that?" Or, "I thought you were a good Christian." Or, "Christians aren’t supposed to act that way."

We don’t like being told what we ought to do especially if it is pointed out that we have violated a previous promise or commitment. When we become a Christian we accept the Bible as our textbook for life. The rules for Christian conduct are plainly stated throughout the New Testament. When someone points out our failure in some area of living the Christian life we can "puff up in anger" or repent and change.

YOUR NOTES:

V. "Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath showed me."

The knowledge that he would soon die gave even more motivation to the Apostle. He chooses to dedicate the balance of his life to the perpetuation of these truths. Everywhere he goes, whenever he speaks, whether in public or private, his theme will be always be centered around the value and necessity of right Christian living.

This determination contrasts vividly with the mentality of most "older" Christians of our generation. Many older people have accepted a wrong philosophy about aging. They feel, or have been told, that they no longer have any place in the church. They have stepped aside and allowed their influence to wither and die thus depriving the church of valuable testimony and experience. This is, in fact, an un-biblical concept. (Titus 2:1-5)

It may be true that some "older" folks have invalidated themselves by not living what they professed. But this possibility should not deter the sincere and dedicated older Christian who truly has insights and "stories of victory" which encourage and inspire. The church needs the old warriors who have learned the ways of spiritual warfare.

Have you ever seriously considered whether you teach by word and demonstrate by lifestyle the values and virtues of Christian living? Do you think you could make that your goal for the rest of your life? (How much longer will you live?)

YOUR NOTES:

W. "Moreover I will endeavor that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance"

Looking toward his death, the Apostle makes a pledge of continuing influence. We do not know all that entails. We do know that his written words have continued even until today by miraculous protection and oversight. God has divinely preserved His Holy Word so that even we of this generation, 2,000 years removed from the Apostle Peter, can be inspired and instructed by his teachings.

Perhaps he had others whom he taught (young men) who would keep the message alive. (See 2nd Timothy 2:2)

This verse presents an interesting two-fold challenge to us. Firstly, do we have godly influence while we now live? Secondly, are we planning any way for our influence to remain after we die?

One of the sad realities of life is that family and friends, after a certain time, tend not to continue to be influenced by the deceased loved one. It isn’t that they no longer feel love but that the human "out of sight, out of mind" mentality rules the heart.

We must live out these principles so that our life has direct effect upon our family and friends while we are alive. In addition, we have the wonderful possibility of "after death influence" by utilizing video tapes, audio tapes or writings by which we preserve our life and beliefs for succeeding generations. Have you ever considered creating a "living will" which bequeaths to your family all of your spiritual wealth?

YOUR NOTES:

X. "For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty."

We must view all teachings through the lens of scripture. If it is out of "sync" with the Bible, cast it away. Regardless of it’s appeal to the flesh or to reason, throw it out! During biblical days the Roman Empire was corrupt to the core. Sensual lifestyles were the norm for the aristocracy as well as the common man. Fables and false religions were the predominant influence in men’s lives. Mythology, with all of it’s ghoulish half man/half beast monsters, , demonstrated the depravity of man without God.

Today, the cults and false religions are somewhat more sophisticated but just as deadly. Most "third world" people (poor and uneducated) still have cruel and monstrous deities. In most cases, their god is either cruel untouchable or ceremonial and ineffective. More "civilized" people (rich and educated) make gods of things, even themselves. Man permits celestial objects, human personalities, images, earthly objects, animals and even concepts to be his god.

All of these things are "cunningly devised" tools of the devil to turn man away from the living and true God.

The Apostles’ affirmation is that he saw and felt the reality of the power and presence of the Lord. He was well aware of all the contrary religious forces and could judge between false and real power. He saw the evidence of the Lords’ power over demonic forces as He healed the sick, forgave sins, and raised the dead. Even the lifelessness of Judaism was thrown into disarray by the real and living power of Christ.

Power is always the deciding factor in worship. People will obey and worship that person or thing which has demonstrated power. It was a principle practiced in the Old Testament; ie: Moses and the temple magicians (Exodus 7 & 8). In the New Testament, we are warned of those who commit "lying wonders" trying to influence people to follow them. (Matt. 24:24; 2nd Thess. 2:9; Rev. 13:13; 16:14; 19:20).

Whether in the Old Testament or the New Testament, false powers always lost when confronted with the real power of God. The Apostle Peter declares that he personally witnessed some of these confrontations and saw that the Lord prevailed.

If we try to influence or change anyone without having a personal relationship with the Lord we will be ineffective.

(2 Pet 1:17 KJV) For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

(2 Pet 1:18 KJV) And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount.

(2 Pet 1:19 KJV) We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

(2 Pet 1:20 KJV) Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

(2 Pet 1:21 KJV) For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

Y. (2 Pet 1:17,18 KJV) For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount.

In order for the Apostle Peter, and other New Testament authors, to be unconditionally convinced about Jesus, it was necessary for them to both see and hear the Father’s affirmation concerning Him. ( Mount of Transfiguration -- Matthew 17:1-8) After all, their life and death was going to be inexorably connected to their witness of and testimony about Jesus.

In a court of law, usually an eye witness account of an event is the most powerful testimony of all. When you have personally witnessed a situation your account of it has unique influence. Especially, if you cannot be swayed or confused by others.

In a "religious court of law" (your personal courtroom of testimony about you and Jesus) your ability to influence others will be determined by your passion and love for Him. If you are not convinced that He has changed your life and has given you a part of Himself (His Spirit), you will not persuade anyone else to surrender to Him.

The fervor of the Apostles cannot be ignored. What they saw and heard convinced them of the authenticity of Christ’s claim. They believed that He was the Son of God. Having believed, their life could no longer be as it was before. God’s voice could not be ignored. The arguments of the religious zealots: the Priests, the Pharisees, and the Sadducees, could not dissuade them. They had to give testimony of what they had seen and hear.

YOUR NOTES:

Z. (2 Pet 1:19 KJV) We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

In addition to the glorious Transfiguration he had witnessed, the Apostle reminded his readers of the mass of prophetic testimony to which they had access. Old Testament scripture was in their possession and was a part of their every day life. Peter challenges them to see Christ in the prophecies, declaring that the Prophets were "moved" by the Holy Spirit in their writings. His witness is not the prophecy but, rather, the confirmation of the prophecy. All they had to do was compare the Scriptures they had with the testimony of Peter.

Even today, many people will not accept the witness of Peter and John. If they do, then they must also accept the Lordship of Jesus.

HOW CAN PEOPLE SO BLINDLY DENY THE REALITY OF CHRIST?

The statement "until the day dawns" is a reference to the second coming of Christ. Peter’s challenge is for them, AND US, to believe the prophecies concerning Christ so they/we will be ready for His return. Having the ‘Morning Star" in their hearts is a testimony of their surrender to His Lordship. No one can force anyone to believe in the Old Testament prophecies about Jesus; nor can anyone be forced into believing in the New Testament accounts of Jesus life, death and resurrection. However, the day will come when every knee will bow in honor to Him. Some in worship and some in terrible horror that they missed their opportunity to love and serve Him. (Isaiah 45:42-44; Romans 14: 11,12; Philippians 2:9-11)

YOUR NOTES:

AA. (2 Pet 1:20,21 KJV) Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

The warning is that no scripture is to be privately interpreted. The Bible is not judged by the "words" of prophecy often heard today; the "words" are judged by the Bible. The Apostle Paul makes a very strong statement about "other gospels (words)" in Galations 1: 6-8.

It is God’s plan that none of His Word be altered. The best method of understanding the Bible and to retain it’s purity and balance is to compare it to itself. The Bible is it’s own best commentary. God’s Word will remain the same regardless of the man’s efforts to change it to accommodate their pet doctrines and wicked lifestyles. (Psalm 119:89; Isaiah 40:8; Matthew 5:18; Matthew 24:35)

In order for the Scriptures to be holy, God had to have direct input. Man, because of his sinful nature, would manipulate events, words, and circumstances to suit his own purposes. By sending the Holy Spirit to anoint and "move" upon the writers, God was able to preserve the holiness and sanctity of His Word. Even a casual reading of Scripture will demonstrate this point. (ie: bluntly revealing the failures and sins of leaders; prophecies given hundreds of years before they were fulfilled; consistency in agreement though written by many different people over many hundreds of years; accuracy of prophecies concerning the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus, etc.)

God’s decision to control the destiny of His written Word is a powerful argument for it’s value. He was concerned that His Word be right and His involvement makes the Bible inerrant in it’s original form.

WHY IS MAN SO INTENT ON DENYING THE VALIDITY OF THE BIBLE?

YOUR NOTES: