The theme of 2nd Peter is the great need for personal spiritual growth in a time when false teachers and teachings were infiltrating the early church (2Pe 1:5 with 2Pe 3:18). Key words/phrases relevant to spiritual growth are “grace and peace,” which can be “multiplied” as we grow in the “knowledge” of our Lord, and exercise due “diligence” in the practice of spiritual “love.” As a method of instruction, Peter emphasizes the necessity of reminder and repetition (2Pe 1:12-13, 2Pe 1:15, 2Pe 3:1-2).
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #31
You can lose eternal reward, but not eternal life. Sinners are saved by Grace through faith; salvation is a free gift. We are now "saints" -- set apart to God (Eph 5:3, 1Co 6:9-12, Eph 5:26). We used to be among "sons of disobedience" and "children of wrath" (Eph 2:1-2). However, when we believe what Christ has done, we should act differently (Eph 4:20, 2Co 5:14-15); we should not be partakers with unbelievers (Eph 5:7). Jesus came to give us abundant life (Joh 10:10). There's nothing you can do to gain eternal life -- a gap we cannot bridge (only Christ could). "Inherit" requires "merit" to gain reward -- "treasure in heaven" (Mar 10:17-24). We "inherit the Kingdom" when we surrender our life to Christ (Gal 5:19-21, Eph 5:1-7)
Scripture References: Ephesians 4:20, Ephesians 2:1-2, Ephesians 5:1-7, Ephesians 5:26, Galatians 5:19-21, Ephesians 5:3, Mark 10:17-24, John 10:10, Ephesians 5:7
From Series: "Ephesians"
More than any book Ephesians reveals the blessings from God based on our relationship with Jesus Christ by grace through faith. Eph 1:3 is the a key verse. Other key verses by chapter include Eph 2:8 Eph 3:19 Eph 4:1 Eph 5:18 and Eph 6:10-11.