Introduction

1. Christians often need to be reminded of our purpose in life, how we are to live a successful life in Christ, the blessed assurance in the hope of heaven, and the awareness of false ways leading from these truths.

2. When Peter writes his second epistle to those of like precious faith, his key purpose is to REMIND them of these things (2 Peter 1:12-15; 3:1).

Discussion

I. GOD HAS ASSURED US THAT WE HAVE EVERYTHING NEEDED TO LIVE THE CHRISTIAN LIFE FAITHFULLY (2 Peter 1:3).

A. God chose knowledge through the scriptures to reveal these things to us.

B. Do not forget the “precious and magnificent promises” given by God (NASB).

C. This knowledge allows us to be “partakers of His divine nature.”

D. This faith is substantiated by Peter’s testimony (2 Peter 1:16-18).

II. HOW TO BE FRUITFUL IN JESUS CHRIST (1:5-9).

A. God has given us the “recipe” for being fruitful, but it takes “diligence.”

B. Add (supply) to our faith: Virtue, Knowledge, Self-Control, Perseverance, Godliness, Brotherly Kindness, and Love.

C. The one who makes every effort to “supply” this to his Christian life will neither be “barren” [idle, without work] or unfruitful (see John 15:1-8).

III. THE RESULTS OF A FRUITFUL LIFE IN CHRIST (1:10-11).

A. We may know our call and election are certain (2 Thessalonians 2:14; Colossians 3:12).

B. If one does diligence to live by the instructions given by Peter, abounding in the graces, he will not lose footing nor “come to ruin” (Mounce).

C. God will supply the entrance into heaven abundantly (Romans 5:9; Romans 8:1; John 14:1-3; Revelation 2:10).

Conclusion

1. Peter reminds us that God has given to us everything we need to live a fruitful life in Christ, and to make our call and election sure of our heavenly home!

2. In the next lesson, we will continue to extract Peter’s reminders concerning false teachers, our awareness of scoffers, and the longsuffering of God in view of the coming judgment day.