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 - February 7, 2003
The Transforming Power of Abiding in Christ #7
Eph 4:1-13 - three levels of unity: of the Spirit; of service; of faith. 1Jo 5:1-21 - Necessity of cleansing, obedience to His commandments (love one another as I have loved you). We are all called to be martyrs - "Not my will but Thine be done." Jam 1:22 - Key to victorious life is surrender. Faith conquers fear. Effective prayer has two aspects: 1. praise and exult God, 2. pray for somebody else.
Conference notes for this series can be found [HERE]
Scripture References: James 1:22, John 5:1-21, Ephesians 4:1-13
From Series: "1st John - The Transforming Power of Abiding in Christ - Northern VA 2007"
This series details John's description of our being 'in Him' - abiding in Christ. This contrasts Paul's use of the phrase expressing positional truth. The key verse is 1Jo 2:6 'He who says he abides in Him ought to walk just as He walked.' The series opens many truths in 1st John while covering the entire epistle.