A Rich Welcome into God’s Eternal Kingdom 2 Peter, Pt. 3 2 Peter 1:1-11 By Pastor Dan Kennedy © July 21, 2013 www.pastorkennedy.com NOTE: this message may take a moment to load If you were to wish for one thing when you die, as a Believer in Jesus Christ, wouldn’t it be for a positive and rewarding welcome when we come into the Presence of our Lord and Savior! John, in his first epistle, encourages us to live in such a way that when we see our Lord we will be confident and unashamed (1 John 2:28). Peter, in his second letter invites us to live in such a way so as to experience great joy when we enter God’s Presence… “For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:10b-11). Can you think of any greater heavenly homecoming than enjoying a “rich welcome” when entering our final glorious eternal home, in the Presence of our Lord and Savior? We have been working through 2 Peter 1 in recent weeks, so let’s go back to the beginning of the chapter and review what we have already studied leading up to this greatly anticipated, amazing homecoming. 2 Peter 1:1–11 An Unexpected Attitude Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, A Righteous Redemption To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours: An Abundant Peace 2 Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. An Empowered Security 3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. An Unparalleled Promise 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. The Coveted Attributes 5 For this very reason, make every effort to add (“minister nourishment”) to your faith goodness (virtue); and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins. 10 Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, 11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. “Add” these things to your faith: To Faith Add +Virtue +Knowledge +Self-Control +Perseverance +Godliness +Brotherly Kindness +Love If you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive … if you do these things … = You will Never Fall & You will receive a Rich Welcome into God’s Eternal Kingdom * Faith in God: The Foundation for our Relationship with Him! Hebrews 11:6 6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. * To Faith add + Virtue/Goodness/Excellence Virtue/Goodness/Excellence: ἀρετή [arete /ar·et·ay/]; 1 a virtuous course of thought, feeling and action. 1a virtue, moral goodness. 2 any particular moral excellence, as modesty, purity. Moral Goodness involves a huge struggle within our heart and mind. 1 John 2:16, sums it up well…a Battle against: 1. The Lust of the Flesh 2. The Lust of the Eyes 3. The Pride of Life These are not from the Father but from the World Paul, in Philippians, gives us the Spiritual Alternative for our mind, to the world’s carnal and destructive appeal: Philippians 4:8 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is “excellent” or praiseworthy—think about such things. But, one of the greatest conflicts against God continues to rage in the human mind and heart when it comes to Virtue! If this battle for virtue is continually being lost in the mind and heart… to the world, the flesh and the devil, then the Knowledge of this invisible God is easily cast aside and substituted for the carnal knowledge and temporary pleasure of the tangible, immoral, and salacious world. Other “additions” to our faith will then be truncated or severed right here. Living without “virtue” is as if the Knowledge of God never existed at all – it would just seem to be a big, foolish, fairytale. To the contrary… - Creation’s Nobility, - The Frailty of the Human Race, and - Death itself, contradicts such a “virtue less”, deceptive, worldly conclusion. These continuing choices for virtue need to be made every day… if you fail, repent; if you have victory, continue to resist…otherwise the spirit of the world will imbed its insatiable tentacles toward your own destruction. That is why Paul exhorts, “Flee evil, pursue good.” (2 Timothy 2:22) * To Virtue add, + Knowledge; γνῶσις [gnosis /gno·sis – “Knowing”] Knowledge about God is essential in the life of the “knowing” Child of God. In this chapter there are two other strong references regarding knowledge in 2 Peter 1:2-3, before “knowledge” is again emphasized in verse 6. 2 Peter 1:2,3 2 Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Good and bad “Knowledge” goes back a long way. God Gave Adam Knowledge After God created man He gave Adam the wonderful knowledge to give “names to all the livestock, the birds in the sky and all the wild animals” and to care for all of the Garden of Eden (Gen. 2:15, 20). God Also Gave Mankind the Opportunity to Know Good and Evil…but to gain this carnal knowledge man and woman would disobey God’s direct command. Mankind cannot sustain evil comprehension. Spiritual and physical death would be the outcome of this disobedience. This kind of debased and self-absorbed “knowledge” rose from partaking of the “Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil” and was devastating for the human race, casting all of humankind in into the cauldron of depravity and sin. Genesis 2:9 9 And the Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. God’s Creation Displays Divine Knowledge Psalm 19:1–4 1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. 2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. 3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. 4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. The Blessing of Acknowledging the Awesomeness of God Proverbs 1:7 7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. Proverbs 2:6–7 6 For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. 7 He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless…. God’s Spirit gives Knowledge Isaiah 11:1–2 11 A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. 2 The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord— Knowledge Increases in the Time of the End Daniel 12:1–4 12 “At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. 2 Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. 3 Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. 4 But you, Daniel, close up and seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end. Many will go here and there to increase knowledge.” Godly Zealousness Needs Godly Knowledge to give it Healthy Balance Romans 10:2 2 For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge. God’s Wisdom and Knowledge are Beyond our Comprehension! Romans 11:33 33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! Other Passages on Knowledge… 1 Corinthians 13:2 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. Galatians 4:9 9 But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again? Despising the Knowledge of God brings Dire Consequences Proverbs 1:28–31 28 “Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me. 29 Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord, 30 since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, 31 they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes. Hosea 4:6 To the self-absorbed Priests of Israel 6 my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. “Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you….” Romans 1:28 28 Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. Despising the Knowledge of God brings Dire Consequences, may God give us a desire to know Him through His Word. Then, after adding His Knowledge, add Godly self-control. * To Knowledge add Self-control… + Self-Control Today, with a needed emphasis on health and image, self-control often centers on looking beautiful. Godly self-control involves a number of other areas as well. (Have you ever seen someone stunningly “beautiful” who is truly a terrible person?) Do you want to be “perfect”? James 3 gives us a secret area of self-control that helps us become as “perfect” as humans can be! James 3:2 2 We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. Below are at least three critical areas in which each of us needs Godly Self-Control: • Self-Control in what we say – our tongue (James 3:1-12). • Self-Control in what we think – our mind (Matthew 5:27-30). • Self-Control in what we allow ourselves to feel – our emotions and will (Matthew 5:43-48 …dealing with hating others; choosing to forgive). Individuals evidencing self-control in these areas will radiance a beautiful spirit, and will be a truly beautiful person. This inner beauty does not come overnight – it takes Godly perseverance! * To Self-control add: + Perseverance Diligent determination to endure honorably before God and others. Romans 2:7 7 To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. Luke 8:15 15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop. Romans 15:4 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 2 Timothy 3:10 Paul’s Charge to Timothy 10 You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance…. Titus 2:2 2 Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. Revelation 3:10 10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth. Revelation 14:12 12 This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God’s commandments and remain faithful to Jesus. Romans 5:3–5 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Perseverance and endurance through suffering produces character – Godly Character! * To Perseverance add, + Godliness Paul had a strong motivation to teach Godliness to Timothy, his young disciple. Paul has more references to “godliness”, in this first letter to Timothy, than “godliness” is specifically referenced in any other book of the Bible. 1 Timothy 2:1–2 Urgent Prayer for a Godly Life 2 1 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. Godliness in the Church – 1 Timothy 3 In the first thirteen verses of 1 Timothy 3, Paul gives spiritual qualifications for Overseers/Elders and Deacons in the Church. Paul explained why he is giving Timothy written instructions… “so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth”. Paul then gives a summary of Christ’s profound supernatural Deity, who, appearing in a natural body, revealed Himself as God, our Savior and Messiah – a dynamic confirmation validating the reality of this great mystery of Godliness, taught in the New Testament – on which we entrust our life and eternal destiny. Godliness Begins With and Is Verified in Jesus Christ 1 Timothy 3:14–16 14 Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, 15 if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 16 Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great: He (Jesus) appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory. 1 Timothy 4:7–8 Training in Godliness is of More Value than Physical Training 7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 6:3–11 A Godly Attitude for True Riches 3 If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4 he is conceited and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5 and constant friction between men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 2 Timothy 3:1–5 Attitudes Evident in the Last Days 3 But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, 4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. 2 Peter 3:10-11 How should we live when the world is rushing toward catastrophic destruction? Peter’s Admonition for Godliness 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. 11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. * To Godliness add: + Brotherly Kindness Treat everyone Kindly…as we should “family”. * To Brotherly kindness add: + Love 1 Corinthians 13 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, It keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. ~ ~ ~ What are the Coveted Attributes, and why should they be so coveted by the Believer in Jesus Christ? The Coveted Attributes 5 For this very reason, make every effort to Add to your Faith : Virtue); and to virtue, Knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, Self-control; and to self-control, Perseverance; and to perseverance, Godliness; 7 and to godliness, Brotherly Kindness; and to brotherly kindness, Love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins. 10 Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, 11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. A Rich Welcome into God’s Eternal Kingdom See our alternative blog site with this message at: http://pastorkennedy.wordpress.com

A Rich Welcome into God’s Eternal Kingdom

2 Peter, Pt. 3

2 Peter 1:1-11

By Pastor Dan Kennedy

www.pastorkennedy.com NOTE: this message may take a moment to load

If you were to wish for one thing when you die, as a Believer in Jesus Christ, wouldn’t it be for a positive and rewarding welcome when we come into the Presence of our Lord and Savior! John, in his first epistle, encourages us to live in such a way that when we see our Lord we will be confident and unashamed (1 John 2:28). Peter, in his second letter invites us to live in such a way so as to experience great joy when we enter God’s Presence… “For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:10b-11). Can you think of any greater heavenly homecoming than enjoying a “rich welcome” when entering our final glorious eternal home, in the Presence of our Lord and Savior?

We have been working through 2 Peter 1 in recent weeks, so let’s go back to the beginning of the chapter and review what we have already studied leading up to this greatly anticipated, amazing homecoming.

2 Peter 1:1–11

An Unexpected Attitude

Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ,

A Righteous Redemption

To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours:

An Abundant Peace

2 Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

An Empowered Security

3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

An Unparalleled Promise

4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

The Coveted Attributes

5 For this very reason, make every effort to add (“minister nourishment”) to your faith goodness (virtue); and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.

10 Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, 11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

“Add” these things to your faith:

To Faith

Add

+Virtue

+Knowledge

+Self-Control

+Perseverance

+Godliness

+Brotherly Kindness

+Love

If you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive … if you do these things …

= You will Never Fall &

You will receive a Rich Welcome into God’s Eternal Kingdom

*Faith in God: The Foundation for our Relationship with Him!

Hebrews 11:6

6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

*To Faith add

+ Virtue/Goodness/Excellence

Virtue/Goodness/Excellence: ἀρετή [arete /ar·et·ay/]; 1 a virtuous course of thought, feeling and action. 1a virtue, moral goodness. 2 any particular moral excellence, as modesty, purity.

Moral Goodness involves a huge struggle within our heart and mind.

1 John 2:16, sums it up well…a Battle against:

1.The Lust of the Flesh

2.The Lust of the Eyes

3.The Pride of Life

These are not from the Father but from the World

Paul, in Philippians, gives us the Spiritual Alternative for our mind, to the world’s carnal and destructive appeal:

Philippians 4:8

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is “excellent” or praiseworthy—think about such things.

But, one of the greatest conflicts against God continues to rage in the human mind and heart when it comes to Virtue! If this battle for virtue is continually being lost in the mind and heart… to the world, the flesh and the devil, then the Knowledge of this invisible God is easily cast aside and substituted for the carnal knowledge and temporary pleasure of the tangible, immoral, and salacious world. Other “additions” to our faith will then be truncated or severed right here. Living without “virtue” is as if the Knowledge of God never existed at all – it would just seem to be a big, foolish, fairytale.

To the contrary…

- Creation’s Nobility,

- The Frailty of the Human Race, and

- Death itself, contradicts such a “virtue less”, deceptive, worldly conclusion.

These continuing choices for virtue need to be made every day… if you fail, repent; if you have victory, continue to resist…otherwise the spirit of the world will imbed its insatiable tentacles toward your own destruction. That is why Paul exhorts, “Flee evil, pursue good.” (2 Timothy 2:22)

*To Virtue add,

+ Knowledge; γνῶσις [gnosis /gno·sis – “Knowing”]

Knowledge about God is essential in the life of the “knowing” Child of God. In this chapter there are two other strong references regarding knowledge in 2 Peter 1:2-3, before “knowledge” is again emphasized in verse 6.

2 Peter 1:2,3

2 Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

Good and bad “Knowledge” goes back a long way.

God Gave Adam Knowledge

After God created man He gave Adam the wonderful knowledge to give “names to all the livestock, the birds in the sky and all the wild animals” and to care for all of the Garden of Eden (Gen. 2:15, 20).

God Also Gave Mankind the Opportunity to Know Good and Evil…but to gain this carnal knowledge man and woman would disobey God’s direct command. Mankind cannot sustain evil comprehension. Spiritual and physical death would be the outcome of this disobedience. This kind of debased and self-absorbed “knowledge” rose from partaking of the “Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil” and was devastating for the human race, casting all of humankind in into the cauldron of depravity and sin.

Genesis 2:9

9 And the Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

God’s Creation Displays Divine Knowledge

Psalm 19:1–4

1 The heavens declare the glory of God;

the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

2 Day after day they pour forth speech;

night after night they display knowledge.

3 There is no speech or language

where their voice is not heard.

4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.

The Blessing of Acknowledging the Awesomeness of God

Proverbs 1:7

7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,

but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Proverbs 2:6–7

6 For the Lord gives wisdom,

and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

7 He holds victory in store for the upright,

he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless….

God’s Spirit gives Knowledge

Isaiah 11:1–2

11A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse;

from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.

2 The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—

the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding,

the Spirit of counsel and of power,

the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord—

Knowledge Increases in the Time of the End

Daniel 12:1–4

12 “At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. 2 Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. 3 Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. 4 But you, Daniel, close up and seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end. Many will go here and there to increase knowledge.”

Godly Zealousness Needs Godly Knowledge to give it Healthy Balance

Romans 10:2

2 For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge.

God’s Wisdom and Knowledge are Beyond our Comprehension!

Romans 11:33

33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!

How unsearchable his judgments,

and his paths beyond tracing out!

Other Passages on Knowledge…

1 Corinthians 13:2

2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

Galatians 4:9

9 But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again?

Despising the Knowledge of God brings Dire Consequences

Proverbs 1:28–31

28 “Then they will call to me but I will not answer;

they will look for me but will not find me.

29 Since they hated knowledge

and did not choose to fear the Lord,

30 since they would not accept my advice

and spurned my rebuke,

31 they will eat the fruit of their ways

and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.

Hosea 4:6 To the self-absorbed Priests of Israel

6 my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge.

“Because you have rejected knowledge,

I also reject you….”

Romans 1:28

28 Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done.

Despising the Knowledge of God brings Dire Consequences, may God give us a desire to know Him through His Word. Then, after adding His Knowledge, add Godly self-control.

*To Knowledge add Self-control…

+ Self-Control

Today, with a needed emphasis on health and image, self-control often centers on looking beautiful. Godly self-control involves a number of other areas as well. (Have you ever seen someone stunningly “beautiful” who is truly a terrible person?)

Do you want to be “perfect”? James 3 gives us a secret area of self-control that helps us become as “perfect” as humans can be!

James 3:2

2 We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.

Below are at least three critical areas in which each of us needs Godly Self-Control:

•Self-Control in what we say – our tongue (James 3:1-12).

•Self-Control in what we think – our mind (Matthew 5:27-30).

•Self-Control in what we allow ourselves to feel – our emotions and will (Matthew 5:43-48 …dealing with hating others; choosing to forgive).

Individuals evidencing self-control in these areas will radiance a beautiful spirit, and will be a truly beautiful person. This inner beauty does not come overnight – it takes Godly perseverance!

*To Self-control add:

+ Perseverance

Diligent determination to endure honorably before God and others.

Romans 2:7

7 To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life.

Luke 8:15

15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.

Romans 15:4

4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

2 Timothy 3:10

Paul’s Charge to Timothy

10 You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance….

Titus 2:2

2 Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.

Revelation 3:10

10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth.

Revelation 14:12

12 This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God’s commandments and remain faithful to Jesus.

Romans 5:3–5

3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

Perseverance and endurance through suffering produces character – Godly Character!

*To Perseverance add,

+ Godliness

Paul had a strong motivation to teach Godliness to Timothy, his young disciple. Paul has more references to “godliness”, in this first letter to Timothy, than “godliness” is specifically referenced in any other book of the Bible.

1 Timothy 2:1–2

Urgent Prayer for a Godly Life

21 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

Godliness in the Church – 1 Timothy 3

In the first thirteen verses of 1 Timothy 3, Paul gives spiritual qualifications for Overseers/Elders and Deacons in the Church. Paul explained why he is giving Timothy written instructions… “so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth”.

Paul then gives a summary of Christ’s profound supernatural Deity, who, appearing in a natural body, revealed Himself as God, our Savior and Messiah – a dynamic confirmation validating the reality of this great mystery of Godliness, taught in the New Testament – on which we entrust our life and eternal destiny.

Godliness Begins With and Is Verified in Jesus Christ

1 Timothy 3:14–16

14 Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, 15 if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 16 Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great:

He (Jesus) appeared in a body,

was vindicated by the Spirit,

was seen by angels,

was preached among the nations,

was believed on in the world,

was taken up in glory.

1 Timothy 4:7–8

Training in Godliness is of More Value than Physical Training

7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

1 Timothy 6:3–11

A Godly Attitude for True Riches

3 If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4 he is conceited and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5 and constant friction between men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.

6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.

2 Timothy 3:1–5

Attitudes Evident in the Last Days

3But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, 4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.

2 Peter 3:10-11

How should we live when the world is rushing toward catastrophic destruction?

Peter’s Admonition for Godliness

10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.

11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat.

*To Godliness add:

+ Brotherly Kindness

Treat everyone Kindly…as we should “family”.

*To Brotherly kindness add:

+ Love

1 Corinthians 13

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love,

I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.

If I have the gift of prophecy

and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge,

and if I have a faith that can move mountains,

but have not love, I am nothing.

If I give all I possess to the poor

and surrender my body to the flames,

but have not love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient, love is kind.

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered,

It keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes,

always perseveres.

Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled;

where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

For we know in part and we prophesy in part,

but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears.

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child,

I reasoned like a child. When I became a man,

I put childish ways behind me.

Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror;

then we shall see face to face.

Now I know in part; then I shall know fully,

even as I am fully known.

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.

But the greatest of these is love.

~ ~ ~

What are the Coveted Attributes, and why should they be so coveted by the Believer in Jesus Christ?

The Coveted Attributes

5 For this very reason, make every effort to

Add to your Faith :

Virtue);

and to virtue,

Knowledge;

6 and to knowledge,

Self-control;

and to self-control,

Perseverance;

and to perseverance,

Godliness;

7 and to godliness,

Brotherly Kindness;

and to brotherly kindness,

Love.

8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.

A Rich Welcome into God’s Eternal Kingdom

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