May 1 Sermon: Be Reminded (2 Peter 1:1-11)

Pastor: John Pennylegion

Series: 2 Peter

As I was looking over this passage, I was struck by Peter's words that those who do not live lives that are maturing, they have forgotten the gospel. Thus, the implication for God's people is that we must be diligent to remember the gospel and the implications of the gospel. These implications included (1) remembering who we are - those called by God and those made clean by God - and (2) remembering how we are to live - lives that are increasing and lives that are dependent.

Below are some questions for reflection and discussion:

1. In the discussion of remembering who we are, it was said that we have been called and that we have been cleansed. What are the ideas that compete with the truth that God has called us his own and that before him we are clean? Is it easy for you to cling to these competing ideas? Why?
2. During the sermon, there was a quote referenced by another pastor: “many think of sanctification as not sinning for the longest amount of time possible.” Is this the primary way you approach your maturing in Christ?
3. Vv. 5-8 describe different qualities that Peter expects Christians to grow in. How do you see your maturing in these areas as a way to choke out existing sin? Is it easier for you to focus on the qualities to be rid of than the qualities to grow in? Where do you see the need for maturing in your life? How can you seek to grow in these areas?

"Calling is an act of God and of God alone. This fact should make us keenly aware of how dependent we are upon the sovereign grace of God." - John Murray