Young Adults' Group

The Challenge To Grow Strong And Steadfast

by Pastor Mark
June 22, 2023

Growth in the context of 2 Peter

The context of 2 Peter is about false teachers and false teachings. The Apostle Peter had many encounters with false teachers and recognised how dangerous their false teachings were.

Warnings concerning false teachings

Peter was deeply concerned for his fellow brethren who had like-precious faith and sought to warn them about the different false teachings that could adversely influence them.

1. Cunningly devised fables (2 Peter 1:16)
2. Destructive heresies (2 Peter 2:1)
3. Destructive ways (2 Peter 2:2)
4. Deceptive words (2 Peter 2:3)
5. Questioning the promise of the second coming of Christ (2 Peter 3:4)

Today, we continue to see many false teachings, such as the performing of signs and wonders, that have seriously affected many. Let us be forewarned and forearmed.

The danger of falling from our own steadfastness (Peter 3:17)

1. These false teachers were skilled in teaching the wrong things.
2. They were compelling in their teachings.
3. Thus, many were drawn away to follow them.
4. The danger of falling from our steadfastness is so very real.
5. We could be steadfast in the faith once but become deceived along the way.
6. Many are adversely affected as they are lured away and end up falling.

The answer lies in good and strong growth

1. Growing in grace

“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18)

1. Peter sees the importance of growth.
2. The challenge is to keep growing in the grace of God.
3. Growing from grace to grace.
4. We have received much grace in salvation.
5. We have also experienced grace in sanctification.
6. Let us continue to grow in the Lord’s grace as we serve Him humbly and faithfully.

2. Growing in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus

1. The challenge is to have deeper insights about His life.
2. There is still so much to understand about His teachings.
3. We grow in our appreciation of the Lord’s gracious salvation given to us.
4. There is a greater sense of belonging in being part of His church, the body of Christ.
5. We look ahead with great confidence and anticipation towards His second coming.

Growth is the means of staying strong and steadfast

What are the results of true growth in the faith?

1. We become wise and discerning.
2. We also become strong and steadfast in faith and life.

The challenge is to grow stronger in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus so that we may be strong and steadfast in our faith and life, and not be lured or deceived in any way.

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