1. Spiritual Growth

2. The Bible and Growth
Hebrews 5:12-6:1
2 Peter 3:18
1 Peter 2:1-3
Ephesians 4:15
2 Thessalonians 1:3
2 Peter 1:5-11

3. Achieving Growth Put away that which hinders (cf. Colossians 3:5-9)
1 Peter 2:1, lay aside malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking
Such things hinder growth - Matthew 6:24, Rom. 8:5-10, 12-13; Gal. 6:16-18, 6:8
Serious commitment - Luke 8:7, 14, etc.

4. Achieving Growth
Desire 1 Peter 2:2, desire the sincere milk of the word
We must make up our minds!

5. Achieving Growth Diligence
Eagerness, real and genuine effort. Doing your very best
Some render lip-service, but their actions show otherwise
John 6:27
2 Peter 1:5, giving all diligence

6. Achieving Growth Diligence Romans 12:8, 11
2 Corinthians 7:11, repentance
Hebrews 6:11
2 Timothy 2:15, be diligent (study)

7. Achieving Growth Nourishment
We need to feed our bodies, with good food. Also true spiritually
(cf. Col. 3:10-14)
1 Peter 2:2, desire the milk so that we can grow thereby
Matthew 4:4
2 Peter 1:5-11

8. Achieving Growth Knowledge – Hosea 4:6 Self-control - Gal. 5:22-23
Nourishment
2 Peter 1:5-11
Faith – Heb. 11:1, 6
Virtue – integrity (Phil. 4:8)
Knowledge – Hosea 4:6
Self-control - Gal. 5:22-23
Perseverance – steadfast endurance, Luke 21:19, Rom. 2:7, Heb. 10:26, Phil. 3:12-14

9. Achieving Growth Nourishment 2 Peter 1:5-11
Godliness, a lifestyle based upon respect for God – 1 Tim. 4:7-8
Brotherly kindness – genuine concern, especially for our brethren Rom. 12:10, 1 Pet. 1:22
Love – agape, Matt. 22:37-39

10. Results of Growth 2 Peter 1:8-11
NOT barren or unfruitful – growing and productive (8)
Awareness of our forgiveness (9)
We will “never stumble” (10) (cf. James 2:10, 3:2) WHEN we perfect these things, we will be secure
Entrance into heaven (11) Rom. 2:7

11. Is your spiritual growth evident?