Tag: addition principle
Escaping the World’s Corruption
Scripture reading for December 18th: 2nd Peter 1-3
Does the sin and degradation of this world ever get to you? Do you become so tired of the constant bombardment of sex, lies, materialism, war, pollution, and lusts that you long for an escape? Peter offers some advice to those who have the righteousness of Christ by faith. We are to live in grace and peace in abundance through our knowledge of God and Christ Jesus, our Lord! (2nd Peter 1:1-2)
“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. 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.” (2nd Peter 1:3-4)
What do we know about Jesus Christ and God our Father that helps us to escape this corruption? We know Jesus was good! He went about doing good and healed all those oppressed by the devil, because God the Father was with Him. (Acts 10:38) We know that Jesus promises to be with us always! (Matthew 28:20) We know that God the Father spoke from heaven and confirmed Jesus as His Son. (Matthew 17:2-5) We also know that Jesus is coming back the same way He left–in a cloud of glory! (Acts 1:9-11) Peter was there and an eyewitness to Christ’s glory when He was transfigured and when He ascended! (2nd Peter 1:18)
We have Peter’s eyewitness account, but God’s word is even more certain according to Peter. (2nd Peter 1:19-21) God’s word contains the precious promises that we cling to. It came not from man, but holy men spoke from God under the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit! God’s word is Spirit and Life–impregnated with the life of God and able to cause us to be born again. (1st Peter 2:23) The life it brings endures forever! The Spirit is a guarantee of what is to come! The earth and heavens will pass away with a roar and intense heat, but God’s word will never pass away! (Matthew 24:35) (2nd Peter 3:10)
Faith and rest in God’s ability to bring His promises to pass enables us to escape the world’s corruption caused by our lusts. We are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth where righteousness will be complete! Peter concludes his second letter with encouragement. We do our part and God will keep His word! “So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with Him. Bear in mind that our Lord’s patience means salvation…” But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” (2nd Peter 3:14-15, 18)