The Hidden Hand of Providence?A Study in the Book of Esther — PA Conference 2014
Gene Cunningham - February 13, 2000
Cross to the Crown #9
Seven spiritual skills (2Pe 1:5-8). Diligence (2Co 5:14, 2Ti 1:6, 1Th 5:19) is our general charge -- inner motivation to count for eternity -- living for others; commitment; we are His workmanship (Eph 2:10). (1) Virtue - spiritual power from God the Spirit displayed - self control; (2) knowledge - Word of God; (3) temperance; (4) patience - perseverance; (5) godliness - God's life lived out in a human (1Ti 3:16, Gal 2:20); (6) brotherly kindness - sacrifice not sentiment - illustrated by Christ; (7) charity - love for all - sacrifice ourselves (1Co 13:4). Results of spiritual skills is outlined in 2Pet 1:8-11: (a) our life will count, (b) we'll be saved from an ungrateful life, (c) we won't stumble and stay down, and (d) abundant entrance into the kingdom.
Scripture References: Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 2:10
From Series: "The Cross to the Crown"
To get from 'the cross to the crown' we need to make decisions to live a life of spiritual dynamics using God's provisions -- His Word and Spirit. This series given in early 2006 before Gene moved back to the States outlines ten aspects of our discipleship.