2 Peter 1:3 We have everything we need! Compare with v. 5 - God's provision is the reason we should follow through with obedience!

2 Peter 1:3 God's call is an expression of His glory and virtue. Nothing is more glorious or spiritually virtuous than the gospel invitation to God’s free salvation

2 Peter 1:3 God has given us what we need for godly life. We can experientially share in God’s nature!

2 Peter 1:4 We can actually escape the bondage to lust that corrupts human life in this world!

2 Peter 1:4 - "Promises" What promises are these? At the very least, they must be the prophetic promises which are so strongly emphasized in 2 Peter. (1:16-21; 3:4, 9, 13)

2 Peter 1:4 Holiness is threatened when we lose our hope in future realities!

2 Peter 1:5 "diligence" Because of what God has done, there is something we must do. Spirituality is a choice that does not come automatically or inevitably.

2 Peter 1:5 - "Virtue" "moral excellence; morality" A life that is highly moral and ethical. Without it, we develop a "dead faith" James 2

2 Peter 1:5 - "Knowledge" Morality must be informed and guided by knowledge. Otherwise, morality can degenerate into legalism.

2 Peter 1:5 - "Knowledge" Heb. 5:14 We are not to do what we do just because we are told to do them, but are responsible to God. When we are in the Word, we know not only what to do, but why we do them.

2 Peter 1:6 - "Self-control" "disciplined moderation" Out of knowledge there should arise that down-to-earth restraint which leads to a balanced life, free from harmful extremes.

2 Peter 1:6 - "Perseverance" In the midst of trial and disappointment we will find our virtue, knowledge, and self-discipline all put to the test. Rom. 5:3; James 1:3 Can we maintain our own standards and self-control?

2 Peter 1:6 - "Godliness" Seems to have definite overtones of the awe in which God should be held. Jesus was heard because of His godly fear. Trials can lead to a deepening sense of

2 Peter 1:6 - "Godliness" Jesus was heard because of His godly fear. Trials can lead to a increasing sense of awe as God grants us grace and mercy in our times of deepest need.

2 Peter 1:7 - "Brotherly kindness (love)" All of these qualities provide the perfect platform for brotherly love. In the process of Christian living, few things must endure heavier blows than do brotherly love and love

2 Peter 1:7 - "Brotherly kindness (love)" Men are in so many ways hard to love and even our Christian brothers are frequently a source of disappointment and trial.

2 Peter 1:6 - "Love" Love is not only the capstone of the list but is also wider than our circle of fellow believers.

2 Peter 1:6 - "Love" The character Peter describes in this list turns out to be the character manifested here on earth by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 1:8 Not enough to just have these. If they are not “increasing” in us, this is a clear danger sign. 1 Cor. 10:12

2 Peter 1:9 "Blind" = Doesn't see spiritual realities.

2 Peter 1:9 "Shortsighted" = Not looking to the Lord's coming!

2 Peter 1:9 "...and has forgotten" = A believer! "Forgotten" can = "to neglect, lack concern for" Phil. 3:13; Heb. 6:10

2 Peter 1:9 A lack of appreciation for God’s mercy in the past. An unconcern about new sins which will also require forgiveness from God.

2 Peter 1:9 Character-deficient Christians are “blind” at the present moment, “shortsighted” about the future, and “forgetful” of God’s grace in the past.

2 Peter 1:10 "Sure" = "to confirm, certify, verify, attest" i.e. to others... Like John 13:35!

2 Peter 1:10 "calling and election" NOT "election and calling"

2 Peter 1:10 Peter is not telling us to make sure we are believers.

2 Peter 1:10 All Christians are given the "royal summons" (call) to rewards, but not all are chosen to co- reign with Christ. Matt. 20:1-16; 22:1-14 (in both parables the choice follows the call)

2 Peter 1:10 Be diligent in your pursuit of Christ likeness that you may realize His full pleasure and reward! 2 Peter 3:14

2 Peter 1:10 "never stumble" On that path and so run the risk of losing the rewards they are “called” to obtain. (1 Cor. 9:27)

2 Peter 1:10 "never stumble" Instead they shall prove themselves “chosen” for divine reward. John 16:1!

2 Peter 1:11 "abundantly" = "richly" Luke 12:21

2 Peter 1:11 A heroes' welcome!