Don't Be A Barren Fig Tree Christian!

 

Jesus curses a fig tree

Mark 11:12-14 (NIV)

12 The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. 13 Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. 14 Then he said to the tree, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard him say it.

Matthew 21:18-19 (NIV)

18 Early in the morning, as Jesus was on his way back to the city, he was hungry. 19 Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, “May you never bear fruit again!” Immediately the tree withered.

Now, why did Jesus curse the Fig tree?

On reading the above verses for the first few times many years ago my immediate thought at the time was that it was so unlike Jesus, so out of character! Jesus being petulant! Surely not? Cursing a tree just because he was hungry and it had no fruit!

In fact petulance had nothing to do with it and Jesus wasn’t stepping out of character. The answer to why the tree was cursed lies in one having some knowledge of the fig tree and its growth and fruit bearing patterns. Jesus, being who He is, knew all about the growth patterns of fig trees.

There is a very reasonable explanation why Jesus cursed the fig tree even though it wasn’t the season for figs. Jesus as with all His parables was using a physical event that the farming community new all about and turned it into a spiritual event that would teach the crowds something about the Kingdom of God. Jesus also knew that this teaching would teach all his disciples throughout the ages.

Just before the fig producing season, fig trees produce little knobs which are edible but do not taste as good as the proper fig but do provide nourishment. The farmers would allow the poorer members of the community and travellers to eat this pre-fruit as a free service to the community!

In Mark’s version of The Fig Tree, he states in Mk 11:13 ‘The time of the fig is not yet.’ It was just before Passover and about six weeks before the fully formed fig is due to appear. When the fig leaves appear at about the end of March, they are accompanied by a crop of small knobs, called taqsh (tuh-kw aa-sh) in Aramaic, a sort of forerunner of the real figs.

These taqsh are eaten by the poor and travellers passing by when hungry. The taqsh drop off before the real fig is formed if they are not eaten. But if the leaves appear unaccompanied by taqsh, it is a sure sign that the tree would never bear fruit. So it was evident to our Lord, when He turned aside to see if there were any of these taqsh on the fig-tree that the absence of the taqsh meant that there would be no figs when the time of figs came. For all its fair foliage, it was a fruitless and a hopeless tree and of no use to anybody.

Luke 13:6-9 (NIV)

6 Then he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. 7 So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’

8 “‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. 9 If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’”

Now, dear Readers, let’s examine the four verses above (Luke 13:6-9). My first question is, “What was the fig tree doing in the vineyard?”

This was not an uncommon sight in those days and even in the Middle East today. A Fig tree has the same kind of root system as a grape vine. So, a farmer of the day would plant a fig tree where he wanted to start a vineyard before he planted his grape vines, if the fig tree grew well, the farmer would know that the field was ok to start planting grape vines as the soil was good.

The problem with the fig tree that Jesus cursed was that although it looked healthy and had leaves it wasn’t bearing any taqsh, and a fig tree that does not bear tagsh would not bear any figs either, so it was no good, it was only good for uprooting and putting on the fire! You see, the fig tree that Jesus cursed had all the appearances of being a good fruit bearing tree, it looked healthy because it had great looking leaves etc.

But……………..it would never bear fruit even though the gardener or the farmer had tended it for a number of years and had fed it fertiliser! It looked good but it was useless, it would serve no purpose in its life!

Consequently, the next day the tree had withered and died!

Mark 11:20-21 (KJV)

20 And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 21 And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away.

What can we learn from this today?

Very often we as Christians bluff ourselves and others that we are the real Christian deal. We have all the outward appearance of being a great fruit bearing tree – but behind our leaves (masks) we are barren and useless.

We can fool most of the people most of the time – but we can never fool God. We cannot hide anything about ourselves from God!

Galatians 6:7-8 (NIV)

7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

Psalm 139:7-12 (NIV)

7 Where can I go from your Spirit?

Where can I flee from your presence?

8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;

if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,

if I settle on the far side of the sea,

10 even there your hand will guide me,

your right hand will hold me fast.

11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me

and the light become night around me,”

12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;

the night will shine like the day,

for darkness is as light to you.

Jesus is the vine and the Father is the gardener.

John 15:1-8

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

Let’s examine the eight verses from John 15:1-8 above keeping in mind the cursed fig tree and that the setting is a vineyard. Jesus is there with his disciples and other followers.

In verse 1 Jesus tells us that he is the true vine, and that God the Father is the gardener – God is the one tends us and provides for us, but only if we are in the true vine, Jesus His Son, only if we are a branch connected to (in) Jesus by the Holy Spirit. This means that only if we are born again, have repented from our old life of sin, and have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Saviour.

In verse two He tells us two very important things that should blow your socks off!

1. God cuts off every branch in Jesus that bears no fruit!
2. Every branch that does bear fruit, God prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. Sometimes this pruning can be a painful process depending on how much we resist Him!

In verses 3-5 Jesus commands us to remain in Him because unless we remain in Him it will be impossible for us to bear any fruit. If we are not bearing fruit there is a good chance that we could fall away and become apostates, an apostate is someone who once believed and then totally rejects the truth of God and His Word or at the very least is neither hot nor cold!

In verse 6 Jesus tells us that if we do not remain in him and do not bear fruit, like the fig tree, we will be cut out and thrown into the fire to be burned.

In verse 7 Jesus tells us that if we remain in Him and in His words (The Bible) our prayers will be answered!

And of course, as I have mentioned before, in verse 8 Jesus tells us that it is to the Father’s glory that we bear much fruit, and this will prove us to be Jesus’ true disciples! Awesome!

God has predestined each one of us to do good works in the Spirit. He expects us to bear much good fruit. If we are not a good fruit bearing disciple and collective Church, we run the risk of being cut off and thrown into the fire! (John 15:6)

Ephesians 2:8-10 (AMP)

8 For it is by grace [God’s remarkable compassion and favor drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God; 9 not as a result of [your] works [nor your attempts to keep the Law], so that no one will [be able to] boast or take credit in any way [for his salvation]. 10 For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us].

As a born again Christian what kind of fruit are you bearing if any?

How do I bear good fruit?

Well, to me it stands to reason that the best and perhaps only place for a Christian to start bearing fruit after becoming born again is with the fruit of the Spirit! If we do this, it will be impossible for us to go wrong! Live by the Spirit always!

Galatians 5:22-26 (NIV)

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

In everything that God tells you to do and in all your dealings with people, do everything in love, without grumbling and apply the fruit of the Spirit in all your ways!

1 Corinthians 16:14 (NIV)

Do everything in love.

Now take the example of the barren fig tree and examine yourself as a Christian.

Are you bearing fruit? Are you producing good fruit, bad fruit or no fruit at all?

Mt 7:20 says, “Thus, by their fruit you will recognise them.”

A fruit tree that bears no fruit is just as bad as a fruit tree that bears bad fruit.

Mt 7:19 says. “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”

It will be very good for you my dear reader to study Mt 7:15-23 and question yourself and your Christian walk in all honesty. We can’t bluff God and He will not be mocked!

Mt 7:21 says, “Not everyone who says to me ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”

If you have any hidden and unconfessed sin in your life, now is the time to ask God to deal with you!

Make no mistake we have entered the times when He will cleanse His Church – no sin can enter heaven.

Eph 5: 26, 27 says, “That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”

2 Pe 3:13 & 14 says, “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.”

This is what the Lord said to the Church in Philadelphia:

Rev 3:16

So because you are lukewarm – neither hot nor cold – I am about to spit you out of my mouth.

Remember what happened to the fig tree – it withered and died. Don’t let that happen to you!

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that you would fill me with your Holy Spirit and help me to live my life in accordance with your will. Lord, help me to bear much fruit that I may bring glory to your name and help build up and edify others. Lord, let me not become a barren fig tree Christian. Amen

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!

Work Out Your Salvation with Fear and Trembling!

 

Philippians 2:12 (AMP)

So then, my dear ones, just as you have always obeyed [my instructions with enthusiasm], not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ].

In the verse above the Apostle Paul tells us to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. Paul starts this verse by saying “So then,” this phrase can also be translated as “Therefore” and both terms mean that because of what he has just said, in verses 1 – 11, we must continue to be obedient and to work out our salvation with fear and trembling.

So, let’s now do a summary of what Paul tells us in verses 1 – 11 so that that verse 12 and onwards can come into perspective! It would be good for you to have your Bibles open to Philippians 2 so that you can verify what I'm saying.

Verses 1 – 11 are all about us, each individual born again believer, actively developing Christ’s characteristics. Being like Him, having the same attitude in life as he had and imitating Him and following his lifestyle of humility. And doing all this if we truly love Him and want to be in unity with Him in the power of the Holy Spirit.

These are the characteristic of Christ we should be imitating:

Verse 2

• Being likeminded

• Having the same love

• Being one in spirit and mind

Verse 3

• Doing nothing out of selfish ambition

• or vain conceit

• In humility value others above yourself

Verse 4

• Looking to the best interest of others before your own

Verse 5: In our relationships with each other

• Have the same mindset as Christ

This mindset is:

Verse 6 True humility and servanthood.

• Although being equal to God he did not consider this to be taken advantage of for himself

Verse 7

• By making Himself nothing He took on the nature of a servant

Verse 8

• He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death on the cross

Verse 9 - 11
Because of the Lord’s humility and obedience God exalted him above all things and gave him the Name above all names and at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord in heaven and on earth!

And if we, born again Christians, diligently and humbly remain in Jesus and earnestly seek to imitate Him in every way, working out our salvation, God will raise us up to our final heavenly resting place to dwell with Him for eternity!

1 Peter 5:6 (NIV)

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Now that we have set the scene, dear Readers, let’s now examine today’s topic from verse 12, “work out your salvation with fear and trembling!”

Paul starts verse twelve of Philippians 2 like this, “Therefore, my dear friends….” or “So then, my dear ones….”

This means because of what he has told us in verses 1 – 11, and by developing the characteristics of Christ in ourselves, we must “continue to work out our salvation with fear and trembling.”

Now, just to clarify things, the term “to work out our salvation” here has nothing to do with doing good works to earn our salvation. Our salvation is a free gift from God that we receive when we repent of our sins and accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour and follow His ways and teachings in the Bible, that is, when we are born again!

John 3:3 & 5-7 (NIV)

3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.

5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’

Acts 4:11-12 (NIV)

11 Jesus is

“‘the stone you builders rejected,

which has become the cornerstone.’

12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV)

8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

So, now that I’ve got that clarified, “to work out your salvation” in this context is all about you, as a born gain Christian, developing yourself on your walk to Christian maturity by imitating Christ, as scripture tells us to, and allowing the Holy Spirit to develop Christ’s characteristics within us by our willing obedience to God and His Word!

1 Corinthians 11:1 (NLT)

And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.

1 Peter 2:21 (NIV)

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

(To find out more about the Christian’s walk to maturity read my blog published on 25 April 2021 “From Milk to Meat: The Christian Path to Spiritual Maturity.” Just click on the link: https://rayskilton.blogspot.com/2021/04/from-milk-to-meat-christian-path-to.html)

Now, looking at the term ‘work out’ in respect to our spiritual walk to maturity in our salvation it comes from the Greek word ‘katergazomai (kat-er-gad'-zom-ahee – Strong’s 2716) and its full meaning besides to work out is, to achieve by application (applying the Word of God to our lives), to bring about (the characteristics of Jesus in ourselves), to perform (in a manner worthy of our salvation), to prepare ourselves (for the Lord’s coming), to produce (good fruit in our lives), to be committed (as a servant of Christ) and effecting change in ourselves (allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us in our lifestyles and actions, being truly obedient to the Bible).

Working out our salvation means that a born again Christian needs to become more and more reliant on the leading of the Holy Spirit rather than giving in to fleshly desires and relapsing into our old selves!

Galatians 5:16-17 (AMP)

But I say, walk habitually in the [Holy] Spirit [seek Him and be responsive to His guidance], and then you will certainly not carry out the desire of the sinful nature [which responds impulsively without regard for God and His precepts]. 17 For the sinful nature has its desire which is opposed to the Spirit, and the [desire of the] Spirit opposes the sinful nature; for these [two, the sinful nature and the Spirit] are in direct opposition to each other [continually in conflict], so that you [as believers] do not [always] do whatever [good things] you want to do.

When we look at the phrase ‘with fear and trembling’ in terms of what Paul shows us in verses 1 – 11 we come to understand that fear and trembling is used in the context of a Christian having a reverent fear of God which is born out of our love for him and a fear that genuinely does not want to do anything that will be offensive to Him or discredit Christ in any way (Php 2:12 AMP above)!

This context of fear lines up with the Hebrew word for fear that the Old Testament writers use when referring to the fear of God. This is the word ‘yirah’ (pron: yir-aw – Strong’s 3373) and its expanded meaning is: a morally reverent fear. It is a fear that inspires awe and aspiration and is not a destructive, cowardly and controlling fear. It is a fear that all Christians should have for their creator and the author of their salvation.

It is a reverent fear that we need to hold on to tooth and nail. It is a fear that will prevent us from doing evil and ensure us being obedient to His Word in all things because we don’t want to disobey our Father in Heaven. He is an awesome God, and His love endures forever!

Such fear protects us against temptation and sin and gives us motivation for obedient, righteous living. Being daily more and more conformed to Christ’s image!

For more information on the fear of God please read my blog “Embracing the Fear of God” published on 20 April 2021. Just follow this link: https://rayskilton.blogspot.com/2021/04/embracing-fear-of-god.html

This is the fear that the writer of Proverbs is refers to here:

Proverbs 1:7 (AMP)

The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence];

But arrogant fools despise [skillful and godly] wisdom and instruction and self-discipline.

And in

Proverbs 9:10 (AMP)

The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of wisdom [its starting point and its essence],

And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding and spiritual insight.

And trembling, from the Greek word ‘tromos’ from which we get our English word tremor, is also a reverent trembling we should have when we think of how awesome our God is and how awesome is His Word (Jesus)!

Isaiah 66:1-2 (AMP)

This is what the Lord says,

“Heaven is My throne and the earth is My footstool.

Where, then, is a house that you could build for Me?

And where will My resting place be?

2 “For all these things My hand has made,

So all these things came into being [by and for Me],” declares the Lord.

“But to this one I will look [graciously],

To him who is humble and contrite in spirit, and who [reverently] trembles at My word and honors My commands.

Although we as born again Christians are forgiven, God nevertheless holds as accountable for our acts of disobedience and the sin that we commit and will commit! We still have the responsibility to walk to Christian maturity and to be conformed more and more into Christ’s image. This means ever striving to be obedient to the Word and its teachings and ever coming before him to confess our sins and ask for forgiveness when we do slip into our fleshly desires. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak!

This is what the Apostle John says to the Church, the believers, those who are already born again!

1 John 1:8-10 (AMP)

8 If we say we have no sin [refusing to admit that we are sinners], we delude ourselves and the truth is not in us. [His word does not live in our hearts.] 9 If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose]. 10 If we say that we have not sinned [refusing to admit acts of sin], we make Him [out to be] a liar [by contradicting Him] and His word is not in us.

The Apostle Paul was also a man who was very much aware of his weaknesses and was not afraid to admit it. We too should always be aware of our weaknesses and be quick to repent and say sorry to the Father in Jesus’ name when we sin.

1 Corinthians 2:3 (NIV)

I (Paul) came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling

Such fear involves having a sensitive conscience, and always being on guard against temptation. It necessitates opposing self-pride and being constantly aware of the deceitfulness of one’s heart, as well as of the subtlety and strength of one’s inner corruption. It involves walking in true humility and full submission God.

Believers should have a serious dread of committing sin and a humble yearning for what is right before God. Being aware of our weakness and the power of temptation, we should fear falling into sin and thereby grieving the Lord. Godly fear not only protects us from sinning, but also protects us from wrongfully influencing our fellow believers.

To have such godly fear and trembling involves more than merely acknowledging one’s sinfulness and spiritual weakness. It is a solemn, reverential fear that comes from our deep adoration and love of God.

It is a fear that acknowledges that every sin is an offense against a holy God and produces in us a sincere desire not to offend and grieve Him, but to obey, honour, please, and glorify Jesus in all things. Those who fear the Lord willingly accept the Lord’s chastening, knowing that God “disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness.”

Hebrews 12:10b (NIV)

but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.

The principle of working out one’s own salvation is an individual’s personal responsibility to conduct his Christian walk in a manner pleasing to God which pivots around our faithful and obedient daily living in the Spirit. Working out one’s salvation requires commitment to God and perseverance through life’s trials and tribulations and of one’s faithful obedience to the end. Until Jesus returns.

Our salvation has three time stages: a past, a present, and a future.

The past is that of justification, when a believer repents from their sinful ways and places their faith in Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord and is redeemed by the blood of Jesus which reconciles us with God.

The present is the sanctification process of the believer, their walk on the path to Spiritual maturity, the time between a believer’s justification and his earthly death or the Rapture, whichever comes first.

The future stage is glorification, when salvation is completed, and we have run our race and then at the rapture we are either taken up by Jesus if we are still on earth or resurrected if we have died. We receive our glorified bodies all by the power of the Holy Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead!

Romans 8:11 (NIV)

And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

1 Peter 1:3-5 (NIV)

3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

Believers therefore have been saved, are being saved, and will be saved.

Shine brightly for Jesus!

Therefore, my dear readers, work out your salvation with fear and trembling in the power of the Holy Spirit and let your light shine brightly before men, do everything in love and without grumbling and complaining as the world does and you will bring glory to Jesus! Let the Word of God be written indelibly upon your hearts!

Matthew 5:14-16 (AMP)

14 “You are the light of [Christ to] the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; 15 nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that you would fill me with your Holy Spirit and help me to live and grow in holiness and godliness and to work pout my salvation in fear and trembling. Help me to be quick to repent of my sinful actions and let no unconfessed sin lie hidden within me. Help me to remain steadfast and true in the teachings of the Bible in the power of your Holy Spirit that I may bring glory to the name of Jesus. Amen

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!

Digging into Peter - Part 8: 2 Peter 3 Judgement Day is Coming

 

Background to the Books of 1 & 2 Peter

The historical indications are that these two books of the Bible were written when the Apostle Peter was in Rome. Peter was writing to the Church, both Jew and Gentile converts that had been scattered through Asia through persecution. Paul was writing to those that were exiled in what today is known as Northwest Turkey.

Both letters are written in a very warm, loving and caring way – a Pastor taking care of his congregation.

Believing the Bible and putting it into practice – allowing it to change us.

2 Peter chapter 3 - ESV (the verses from 2 Peter 3 are in light italics, the explanation of the verse/s follows in light, straight text with additional scriptures from other Bible books in bold italics)

Dear Readers
2 Peter 3 is the last chapter of the two letters (1 and 2 Peter) that Peter wrote to the Church of the day and sadly these were the last and only letters he wrote to the Church before he was crucified on the orders or the Roman Emperor Nero in about 64 CE. And consequently, this is the last article in my series ‘Digging into Peter.’

I hope you have enjoyed reading them as much as I have enjoyed writing them – the Holy Spirit has taught me much in writing them and I sincerely hope that He has done the same for you in reading them! All glory to Jesus!

God bless you!

Ray

The Purpose of Peter’s Two Letters

1 This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder, 2 that you should remember the predictions of the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles,

In these first two verses Peter reminds us that he has written his two letters (1 and 2 Peter) to encourage us in our faith and to remind us that the coming of Jesus (The Messiah) was prophesied from days long ago through the Old Testament prophets and also through the teachings of our Lord himself and the Apostles. Jesus came to fulfil all prophecy for His testimony is the Spirit of prophecy, and He is the fulfilment of the Law which man is unable to keep.

Revelation 19:10b (AMP)

For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy [His life and teaching are the heart of prophecy].”

Matthew 5:17 (NIV)

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.

In the last days many scoffers of the things of God will come

3 knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. 4 They will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.” 5 For they deliberately overlook this fact, that the heavens existed long ago, and the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God, 6 and that by means of these the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished. 7 But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.

The Greek word for ‘scoffers’ in verse three is ‘empaiktés’ (pronounced emp-aheek-tace – Strong’s 1703) and means a scoffer or a mocker, and by implication a false prophet or teacher.

In verses 3 -7 above Peter points out five things that he wants the Church to remember at all times. These are:

• In the last days scoffers and mockers will come, following their own evil desires

• They will say, “Where is this Lord who you say is coming? You’ve been saying this for centuries!

• They deliberately overlook that the heavens existed long ago and that the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God (Jesus)!

Genesis 1:1-3 (AMP)

1 In the beginning God (Elohim) created [by forming from nothing] the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was formless and void or a waste and emptiness, and darkness was upon the face of the deep [primeval ocean that covered the unformed earth]. The Spirit of God was moving (hovering, brooding) over the face of the waters. 3 And God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light.

John 1:1-3 (AMP)

1 In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. 2 He was [continually existing] in the beginning [co-eternally] with God. 3 All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him not even one thing was made that has come into being.

• They overlook that in the days of Noah the earth was destroyed by water – deluged!

• They overlook that on judgement day today’s world will be destroyed by fire and the ungodly cast into Hell.

Peter wants us to particularly remember these five things so that we will not be led astray by false prophets and teachers, especially in these last days!

God is spirit and lives outside of time in the realm of eternity

8 But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.

In verses 8 – 10 Peter reminds us that God lives outside of our earthly time constraints and one day for Him could be a thousand years to us and vice versa. So, He is not slow to keep His promise as we know it! Jesus will return to judge mankind (this is not the rapture return this is Judgement Day) in God’s ‘soon’ not ours! God has infinite patience and does not wish anyone to perish but there is going to come a time when He will bring judgement upon the earth and all mankind! Only the Father knows this time!

Jesus will come to judge mankind like a thief comes, without warning!

Matthew 24:36 (NIV)

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

Matthew 24:44 (NIV)

So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

What sort of people must we be in readiness for our judgement day. What must the Church look like for the rapture?

11 Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, 12 waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! 13 But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.

In verse 11 above Peter asks the Church, “What sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness (Firstly being rapture ready), (and secondly) waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God –Judgement Day?”

(For more information on what holiness and godliness is please read my blog ‘What is Holiness?’ published on 18 July 2022. Click on this link: https://rayskilton.blogspot.com/2022/07/what-is-holiness.html).

Peter tells us we should be ‘hastening’ Judgement Day – the day of God. We should be praying for this day to come having an earnest desire for it to arrive as also we should be praying for the rapture of the Church!

When this day arrives, the passing of the old forever, we, the Church, will receive the promise of a new heavens and a new earth! On this day the whole (new) earth will be filled with God’s glory and His righteousness! What a day this will be for us Church – living in the midst of our God!

Revelation 21:1-4 (NIV)

Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

14 Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace. 15 And count the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, 16 as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures. 17 You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability. 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.

In verses 14 – 18 above Peter continues in telling us what sort of people we should be in our lives of holiness and godliness – being rapture ready.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 AMP)

16 For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel and with the [blast of the] trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain [on the earth] will simultaneously be caught up (raptured) together with them [the resurrected ones] in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord! 18 Therefore comfort and encourage one another with these words [concerning our reunion with believers who have died].

Peter goes on to say that we should be diligent to be found by the Lord, when He comes for His Church at the rapture, to be without spot or blemish and at peace. Now what does this mean for us in real terms?

Without spot or blemish:
The Greek word for this is ‘aspilos’ (pronounced as'-pee-los – Strong’s 784) and its expanded meaning is unstained, undefiled, spotless, pure, untainted, morally unblemished and fully acceptable to God.

In other words, without sin and not steeped in the sins or in the likeness of the world. Remember that Peter is addressing the saved not the unsaved so we, the Church, must not be in willful sin in any way and obedient to the Word in all ways! We mustn’t still be swearing, getting drunk and other things that many of today’s Christians are still doing even though they have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. We must be working out our salvation with fear and trembling! Let’s not act offensively towards God or discredit the name of Jesus! God is our Father in Heaven!

Philippians 2:12 (AMP)

So then, my dear ones, just as you have always obeyed [my instructions with enthusiasm], not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ].

And at peace:
The Greek word for peace here is eiréné (pronounced i-ray'-nay – Strong’s 1515) and its expanded meaning is to be as one with others (believers), to be at peace with oneself (having peace of mind), quietness, rest.

In its Hebrew sense, peace or ‘shalom’ was used as a common farewell blessing to others with the connotation of God's blessing of good health and welfare being bestowed on the individual you were departing from.

It is the peace that comes to us from the Lord that passes all understanding and the peace that comes from our salvation in Christ Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit to remain in Him as we look to Jesus to see us through the trials, tribulations and temptations of life – to be overcomers and conquerors to the end!

Philippians 4:4-7 (NIV)

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:37 (AMP)

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors and gain an overwhelming victory through Him who loved us [so much that He died for us].

In verses 15 and 16 Peter gives a glowing endorsement to the teachings and writings of the Apostle Paul and encourages us to also take to heart Paul’s teachings to the glory of Jesus. Let’s do it Church!

And in the final two verses of this chapter and of the entire letter as well, Peter reiterates that we must not let ourselves be drawn away from the truth of Jesus and His Word, especially in the last days, by the lies and deceit of false prophets and teachers. And to grow in the love, grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!

2 Corinthians 13:14 (NIV)

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that you would fill me with your Holy Spirit and help me to live and grow in holiness and godliness. Help me to be quick to repent of my sinful actions and let no unconfessed sin lie hidden within me. Help me to remain steadfast and true in the teachings of the Bible in the power of your Holy Spirit that I may bring glory to the name of Jesus. Amen

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!

Digging into Peter - Part 7: 2 Peter 2 The Fate of False Prophets and Teachers

 

Background to the Books of 1 & 2 Peter

The historical indications are that these two books of the Bible were written when the Apostle Peter was in Rome. Peter was writing to the Church, both Jew and Gentile converts that had been scattered through Asia through persecution. Paul was writing to those that were exiled in what today is known as Northwest Turkey.

Both letters are written in a very warm, loving and caring way – a Pastor taking care of his congregation.

Believing the Bible and putting it into practice – allowing it to change us.

2 Peter chapter 2 - ESV (the verses from 2 Peter 2 are in light italics, the explanation of the verse/s follows in light, straight text with additional scriptures from other Bible books in bold italics)

False Prophets and Teachers

1 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. 3 And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.

At the start of this chapter, Peter continues from where he left off in Chapter 1 where he is talking about the Old Testament prophets.

In verses 1-3 above He warns the Church (us today as well) that just as false prophets arose in those times, so they will continue to arise even to today and beyond until judgement day. 

He even tells us how we will recognise them!

They will sneak in ‘destructive heresies’. The word heresies here comes from the Greek word ‘hairesis’, pronounced ‘hah-ee-res-is’ (Strong’s 139) and means: self-opinions, a false belief, a philosophical opinion, discord and divisive contention. In other word they will distort the Bible teachings for personal gain and self-prestige.

Galatians 1:7b-8 (NIV)

Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse!

1 Corinthians 1:1-2 (NIV)

And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. 2 For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.

Jesus himself in Matthew 7:15 and Acts 20:29-30 describes these false prophets and teachers as savage and ravenous wolves!

• They will deny Jesus who redeemed them with His own blood! Thus, they bring on themselves a swift destruction!

• They will lead many astray as their teachings and actions will appeal to the flesh – our senses and fleshly passions – and not to our Spirit!

• And because of them the way of truth – the way of Jesus, the way of the Spirit – will be blasphemed! They will slander, malign and profane the sacred things of God!

• Their greed and lies will exploit the Church for personal wealth and prestige!

Matthew 7:15 (NIV)

 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.

Acts 20:29-30 (NIV)

29 I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.

Their destruction is assured!

From verse four onwards to the end of the chapter, Peter lets us know just how harshly false prophets and teachers and every unrepentant sinner will be punished.

Our God is a God of justice, and he will not tolerate the unrepentant sinner for much longer.

Luke 13:3 (AMP)

I tell you, no; but unless you repent [change your old way of thinking, turn from your sinful ways and live changed lives], you will all likewise perish.

John 3:36 (AMP)

He who believes and trusts in the Son and accepts Him [as Savior] has eternal life [that is, already possesses it]; but he who does not believe the Son and chooses to reject Him, [disobeying Him and denying Him as Savior] will not see [eternal] life, but [instead] the wrath of God hangs over him continually.”

Revelation 21:8 (AMP)

But as for the cowards and unbelieving and abominable [who are devoid of character and personal integrity and practice or tolerate immorality], and murderers, and sorcerers [with intoxicating drugs], and idolaters and occultists [who practice and teach false religions], and all the liars [who knowingly deceive and twist truth], their part will be in the lake that blazes with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment; 5 if he did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a herald of righteousness, with seven others, when he brought a flood upon the world of the ungodly; 6 if by turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes he condemned them to extinction, making them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly;

In verses 4 -6 above Peter reminds us that the judgement that God brought in the past is going to be meted out on all false prophets and teachers, past and present as it will on all the ungodly, those that do not know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. Those that will not bow their knee to Jesus! There is only one way back to God and salvation, and that is through the Son Jesus.

John 14:6 (NIV)

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Angels were not spared, the ancient world at the flood was not spared and Sodom and Gomorrah were not spared. All these are examples of what is going to happen to the ungodly since those times who were not/are not born again!

John 3:3 (AMP)

Jesus answered him, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless a person is born again [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified], he cannot [ever] see and experience the kingdom of God.”

7 and if he rescued righteous Lot, greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked 8 (for as that righteous man lived among them day after day, he was tormenting his righteous soul over their lawless deeds that he saw and heard); 9 then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, 10 and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority. Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones, 11 whereas angels, though greater in might and power, do not pronounce a blasphemous judgment against them before the Lord.

In verses 7 – 11 above Pater assures us that God knows who are His, those who are born again and know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour and have repented from their sin and He knows how to rescue us from life’s trials.

He also knows those that don’t belong to him, those who are not born again, the unrighteous and he keeps them under punishment until judgement day, especially those who wilfully lust after sin, self-pleasure and slander and profane the sacred things of God and when they think nothing of Christ’s lordship and sacrifice! They have no fear in blaspheming the Holy Spirit and angelic beings!

The frightening fate of false prophets and teachers and those with unrepentant hearts

12 But these, like irrational animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed, blaspheming about matters of which they are ignorant, will also be destroyed in their destruction, 13 suffering wrong as the wage for their wrongdoing. They count it pleasure to revel in the daytime. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their deceptions, while they feast with you. 14 They have eyes full of adultery, insatiable for sin. They entice unsteady souls. They have hearts trained in greed. Accursed children! 15 Forsaking the right way, they have gone astray. They have followed the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved gain from wrongdoing, 16 but was rebuked for his own transgression; a speechless donkey spoke with human voice and restrained the prophet's madness. 17 These are waterless springs and mists driven by a storm. For them the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved.

In verses 12 – 17 above Peter pulls no punches in his explanation of the fate of false prophets and teachers! As the Word says they will face a harsh judgement for their sin!

Teachers! Preach only the Word of God not the fancies of fleshly man! Preach only Jesus Christ and Him crucified!

James 3:1 (NIV)

Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.

1 Corinthians 2:1-2 (AMP)

And when I came to you, brothers and sisters, proclaiming to you the testimony of God [concerning salvation through Christ], I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom [no lofty words of eloquence or of philosophy as a Greek orator might do]; 2 for I made the decision to know nothing [that is, to forego philosophical or theological discussions regarding inconsequential things and opinions while] among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified [and the meaning of His redemptive, substitutionary death and His resurrection].

We all know that scripture was written by men under the power of the Holy Spirit – God breathed.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)

16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

So, from verse 12 -17, this is how God describes the nature, characteristics, and actions of the wicked and what their fate will be!

18 For, speaking loud boasts of folly, they entice by sensual passions of the flesh those who are barely escaping from those who live in error. 19 They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved.

In verses 18 and 19 above Peter goes on to say that the false prophets and teachers lead those whose faith is weak into sin by tempting them with the passions of the flesh, they promise them freedom through ‘things and works’ instead of freedom in Christ Jesus.

John 8:34 (NIV)

Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.

John 8:36 (NIV)

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

When the Son sets your free you are no longer a slave to sin but a slave of righteousness!

Romans 6:17-18 (NIV)

17 But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. 18 You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.

20 For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. 21 For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them. 22 What the true proverb says has happened to them: “The dog returns to its own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire.”(Proverbs 26:11)

In verse 20 – 22 above, Peter tells us that the false prophets and teachers once knew Jesus as Lord and Saviour but have departed from the way of righteousness and have once again embraced sin and the passions of the flesh. 

They were once born-again but have now returned to their old sinful ways like a dog that returns to its vomit and have become worse than they ever were before. Peter says for people like this it would have been better for them never to have known Jesus as Lord and Saviour than to have returned to their old, evil ways! Their destruction is assured!

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that you would fill me with your Holy Spirit and help me to discern truth from error and to avoid being led astray by false prophets and teachers. Help me Lord to continue on the path of righteousness in Christ Jesus and never to return to my old, evil ways. Amen.

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!

Digging into Peter - Part 6: 2 Peter 1

Background to the Books of 1 & 2 Peter
The historical indications are that these two books of the Bible were written when the Apostle Peter was in Rome. Peter was writing to the Church, both Jew and Gentile converts that had been scattered through Asia through persecution. Paul was writing to those that were exiled in what today is known as Northwest Turkey.

Both letters are written in a very warm, loving and caring way – a Pastor taking care of his congregation!

Believing the Bible and putting it into practice – allowing it to change us.

2 Peter chapter 1 - ESV (the verses from 2 Peter 1 are in light italics, the explanation of the verse/s follows in light, straight text with additional scriptures from other Bible books in bold italics)

Greeting
1 Simeon (Simon) Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ,
To those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ:
2 May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

Peter’s opening address and greeting to the Church in these first two verses is one of incredible humility and love towards his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. His attitude towards others so emulates that of Jesus! He doesn’t consider himself to be greater than anyone else. This is something we all need to remember and do when we are interacting with each other!

He considers himself to be a servant before being an apostle and he considers us, the Church, to be equal to himself in faith and standing and in righteousness before God because of Jesus our Saviour! It’s all about Jesus not Peter! His example perfectly reflects the attitude of Jesus. Let each of us do the same Church!

Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV)

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

6 Who, being in very nature God,

did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;

7 rather, he made himself nothing

by taking the very nature of a servant,

being made in human likeness.

8 And being found in appearance as a man,

he humbled himself

by becoming obedient to death—

even death on a cross!

Confirm Your Calling and Election

In verses 3 and 4 below Peter reveals a wealth of benefits we receive when we are born-again that are not obvious to most of us at first glance. Let’s examine these two verses separately and uncover these wonderful things God bestows upon us because we become His elect – His chosen ones – His Royal Priesthood! God has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light!

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

3 His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence,

Now, looking at verse 3 above, it is a short verse that packs a mighty punch when we examine it closely!

God’s divine power has been freely given to us, through our Lord Jesus Christ, to ensure that we have everything that we need to live our lives in a godly way! God’s divine power is embedded within us by the infilling of the Holy Spirit. All we have to do is believe and receive and the Holy Spirit will lead us in all truth! Jesus reveals to us everything we need to know through the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit reminds us of what God’s Word says and also brings personal and corporate revelation of His Word to His Church through the Holy Spirit – The Spirit and the Word come together – the logos (written Word) becomes rhema (revealed Word) by the power of the Holy Spirit!

John 14:26 (NIV)

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

John 16:12-15 (NIV)

12 “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.”

Acts 1:8 (NIV)

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

4 by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.

It is through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour that we receive all of God’s very great and precious promises (verse 4 above) the greatest of which is our salvation in His name and the forgiveness of our sins.

The promises of God to us are many and varied! There are so many that they are practically uncountable but there two things I know about them for sure, they are all for our benefit and yes, they are ours because they have all been filled (God’s promises) in Christ Jesus! We are God’s anointed ones, His Holy Spirit seals us and we belong to Jesus, His Spirit is in our hearts which guarantees our future hope of salvation and glory in heaven!

2 Corinthians 1:18-22 (NIV)

18 But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” 19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me and Silas and Timothy—was not “Yes” and “No,” but in him it has always been “Yes.” 20 For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, 22 set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

For these reasons we are God’s sons and daughters and inherit all things along with Christ and we become partakers in His divine nature because the blood of Jesus covers our sin. What an awesome privilege! What a mighty God we serve!

5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins.

In verses 5 – 9 above, Peter tells us that because of our faith in God through Christ Jesus and in the power of the Holy Spirit, we, as individuals need to supplement or add to our faith with other Characteristics of God that are available to us as we are enabled and filled by the Holy Spirit and in this way, we bring glory to God through Christ Jesus!

Let’s examine these Godly characteristics that Peter reveals to us one by one in verses 5-7 by using the original Greek translations.

• Virtue (Greek ‘areté’ – Strong’s 703) – moral goodness, graciousness, uprightness, moral excellence, acts that not only enrich one’s own life but the lives of others as well both mentally and physically.

• Knowledge (Greek ‘gnósis’ – Strong’s 1108) – a spiritual knowledge gained from the Bible, knowledge of the Bible applied to action in obedience.

• Self-control – a facet of the fruit of the Spirit (Greek ‘egkrateia’ – Strong’s 1466) – self-mastery, self-restraint, all in the power of the Holy Spirit.

• Steadfastness – (Greek ‘huponomé’ – Strong’s 5281) – a patient endurance, not giving up, the sole reliance on God for all things.

• Godliness – (Greek ‘eusebeia’ – Strong’s 2150) – devotion to God, reverent fear of God, an unswerving dedication to the things of God.

• Brotherly affection – (Greek ‘philadelphia’ - Strong’s 5360) – brotherly love, the love for Christian brothers and sisters for each other, love for fellow believers, kindness towards each other.

In verses 5 – 8, Peter tells us that if we embrace these Godly qualities and make them our own, make them part of our character so that they increase in us, they will ensure that we become effective and fruitful Christians. We will show ourselves as true disciples of Christ. In this way we will bring glory to the Father.

John 15:8 (NLT)

When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.

What fruit should we be producing? The fruit of the Spirit! As born again Christians we live by the Spirit in Christ Jesus – therefore let us keep ourselves in step with the Holy Spirit at all times!

Galatians 5:22-26 (NIV)

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

10 Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. 11 For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Verses 10 and 11 above bring such strength and comfort to each one of us. Peter tells us to be ‘more diligent’ to confirm our calling and election. Diligent comes from the Greek word ‘spoudadzó’ (Strong’s 4704) and its expanded meaning is, be quick, eager and zealous to be diligent, fully applying ourselves to diligence and being quick to accomplish our calling and election in Christ Jesus! In this way our entrance into eternal life in the Kingdom of our Lord will be richly provided for. We will lack nothing in achieving this!

12 Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. 13 I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ made clear to me. 15 And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.

In verses 12 – 15 above Peter tells the Church of the time that he will continue to remind them of these qualities at every opportunity as he knows that he is soon going to be put to death by Nero. This was revealed to him by the Lord. So, he will remind them regularly while he is alive so that they do not forget. In though Peter was facing an horrific death, his only thought were for his flock just as Christ’s was.

Rumour has it that Peter was crucified upside down on the cross as he didn’t consider himself to be worthy to die in exactly the same way Jesus did!

Today, Church, let us take a leaf out of Peter’s book and do as he did, let us keep on reminding each other of these Godly qualities that are essential for us to clothe ourselves in at all times! Never taking them off! Let us always put the needs of others before our own!

Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV)

3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Christ's Glory and the Prophetic Word

16 For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” 18 we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain. 19 And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

In the above six verses (16 – 21), Peter closes this chapter by reminding the Church that he and the other Apostles were eyewitnesses to the coming of Christ in his full power and majesty. They witnessed every miracle and supernatural thing that he did and spoke! The ministry of Christ was not something that they had made up it was real and was witnessed by many others too!

They had actually heard God’s voice telling them that Jesus was His son for they were with him on the mountain at the time and witnessed His transfiguration, His radiance and glory shinning in His true magnificence and power!

Matthew 17:1-3 (AMP)

Six days later Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John the brother of James, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. 2 And His appearance changed dramatically in their presence; and His face shone [with heavenly glory, clear and bright] like the sun, and His clothing became as white as light. 3 And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus.

From verse 19 Peter goes on to tell us that the prophetic writings about the coming of Jesus were confirmed to them in full by their being eyewitnesses of His presence, His actions, His life, His death and His resurrection! Peter urges the Church, including us today, to pay attention to these facts – the fulfilling of the prophecy of the coming Messiah!

The promise for us from this is that we too will witness him in His true glory as they did on the mountain at His transfiguration. His glory will light the New Heavens and the New Earth, and we will be there! Come, Lord Jesus! Come!

Revelation 21:23 (AMP)

And the city has no need of the sun nor of the moon to give light to it, for the glory (splendor, radiance) of God has illumined it, and the Lamb is its lamp and light.

Peter goes on to reassure us that no Bible prophecy was written by man but by God through the Holy Spirit working in man to bring glory to Jesus! Amen!

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)
16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that by your Holy Spirit, you would strengthen me and enable me to clothe myself in your Godly characteristics that my faith may grow and ever increase, and that my life will bring glory to Jesus and will help others to achieve their calling and election in Christ Jesus. Thank you, Lord that you have given us everything we need to live Godly lives by the power of the Holy Spirit. I pray, Lord that you will continually fill me with your Holy Spirit now and always. Amen!

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!