2 Peter 1_1-4
Tonight marks the beginning of the month of Av - the 5th month.
This is considered a somewhat solemn month on the Jewish calendar.
It contains the 9th of Av on which the first and second temple were destroyed, among a number of other tragedies.
The word Av means father.
According to chabbad.org “It is customary to add the name “Menachem,” which means “comforter” or “consoler”—so Menachem Av.”
Which carries the idea that even in tragedy God the Father gives us comfort.
So, that is the month that we are entering into.
But what I would like to discuss tonight is the beginning passage of 2nd Peter –
2 Peter 1:1-4
V1
Precious faith.
Like precious faith.
The faith that we have is the same sort of faith as what Peter, James, John and the other apostles had. That is what is being said here.
Sure, they certainly exercised more faith,
but our saving faith is the same.
It is one faith, the same faith that we all participate in.
Ephesians 4:4-6 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
We have access to the same God through the righteousness of the same Lord, Yeshua Messiah, and in the same Holy Spirit.
These words “like precious”
Greek: “isotimos” (G2472)
“Usage: equally privileged, equal in honor.”
V2
Is it fair to say from this verse that the grace and peace that we experience can be more or less?
If it can be multiplied to us, we can have more peace. We can have more grace.
The amount of peace (shalom) that we experience is directly related to our knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
The more we know Him, the more we trust Him.
The more He speaks to our heart and we are strengthened by Him.
“Grace and peace be multiplied to you”
V3
This is in some way a reiteration of the previous verse, but adding detail and insight.
“Through the knowledge of Him” we are granted all things that pertain to life and godliness by His divine power - that is grace.
This is the resurrection power of God at work in our lives.
We sing “The same power that rose Jesus from the grave…”
“Lives in us”
V4
It is by this power, by God’s glory and virtue that we are given these promises
What are some of the promises that we are given in Scripture?
Resurrection
Eternal life
Become like Him
Forgiveness
Holy Spirit
Family
Protection - guard our hearts
Persecution
Power over the devil
Peace
Grace
He says by these exceedingly great and precious promises we become partakers of the divine nature.
The promises that we are given are for whatever will make us Christ-like.
That is the goal.
That is where peace is found. That is what it means to have life and godliness.
That is where true Peace resides.
So I thought it was only fitting if we had a P themed potluck to have a P themed sermonette.
Let us pray.