Second Peter 1:3-4
I. Introduction:
A. We are going to be talking about a few words today that we must make sure we know the meanings of before we proceed. Consider an application from Paul in talking about speaking in tongues (I Corinthians 14:6-11).
- The term translated “divine” [θεῖος] in our two verses today appears in one other context in the New Testament (Acts 17:29).
- “Godlike (neuter as noun, divinity): - divine, godhead” (Strong’s # 2304).
- “An adjective; 1) a general name of deities or divinities as used by the Greeks; 2) spoken of the only and true God, trinity; 2a) of Christ; 2b) Holy Spirit; 2c) the Father” (Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon).
- The term translated “power” [δύναμις] has various definitions. We see the word translated “wonderful works” (Matthew 7:22), “mighty works” (Matthew 11:20), “power” in the miraculous sense (Acts 1:8), “miracles” (Acts 2:22 and I Corinthians 12:29), “power” as in authority (Acts 4:7), or even “strength” (Revelation 3:8).
- We are going to talk about “divine nature.” Nature meaning “nature” and as it is used in what is natural (i.e. Romans 1:26, Romans 2:27, I Corinthians 11:14, Galatians 2:15, etc.).
- To take on His nature, which is holy (I Peter 1:13-16), through what the Scriptures provide (I Thessalonians 4:1-7).
- Thus, we are capable of being followers [imitators’ of God (Ephesians 5:1). As He is in character (Matthew 5:48, Luke 6:35-36, I John 2:3-6, etc.).
II. Body: II Peter 1:3-4
A. His divine power he has given us… (Matthew 28:18-20 and John 16:3-15).
- From the direct, miraculous, revelation to the Apostles; down to the continuation of teaching from man to man (II Timothy 2:2).
- Through the divinely revealed word we have been equipped to be His people (Titus 2:11-14; cf. Luke 4:4 and John 6:63).
- For whatever we say or do (Colossians 3:16-17).
- His word lighting the path for us (Psalms 119:97-105).
- Seeking now the glory to come (Romans 2:6-7).
- Enduring the trials of this life through faith to be found unto praise and honor and glory (I Peter 1:7-9).
- Consider a few things saints are promised… Matthew 16:24-27, Romans 8:31-39, I Corinthians 15:57, II Corinthians 4:8-5:1, II Corinthians 13:11, Ephesians 1:3-12, I Peter 3:10-12, etc.
- Being motivated by those promises enough to live aright (II Corinthians 6:14-7:1 and I John 3:1-3).
- Getting the right mindset aligned with the right actions (Colossians 3:1-10).
- As we addressed earlier in the lesson, imitating our moral God in being just and right (cf. Deuteronomy 32:4).
- No longer living according to the lusts of the flesh (Ephesians 2:1-10 and I Peter 4:1-5).
- Don’t turn back (II Peter 2:20-22; cf. Proverbs 26:11).
III. Conclusion: Our next lesson: II Peter 1:5-11