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. 2 Peter 1:3-4 NIV
Is your Christian life working?
I’d like to share with you Peter’s recipe for a successful Christian life.
Peter’s interpretation of the word ‘successful’ may be a little different from yours.
What does a successful Christian look like anyway? Is he/she a famous evangelist or healer who travels the world and participates in the conversion of others? Perhaps a famous pastor like Rick Warren who has a church with thousands of people in it and whose books sell in their millions?
Peter certainly saw a lot of conversions the first time he preached and he plays a starring role in the New Testament. However his idea of a successful Christian life is listed above, for him the successful Christian is one who is able to participate in the divine nature (of God) and escape the corruption of the world. What, no great preaching abilities?
Maybe that does not sound quite so exciting, but it gives a solid place in heaven and it makes us stand out in this world. It led Peter not to fame and fortune but often to imprisonment, trouble and eventually a martyr’s death. It has led many others the same way. But those good souls live forever in the joy of heaven - as Peter himself points out in the closing section of this reading.
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, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:10-11 NIV
The Kingdom of God is not just ‘pie in the sky when we die’ it is also ‘cake on a plate while we wait.’ The Kingdom of God longs to be released into this world too.
Lord, I want to be eager for my life to reflect your Glory, please help me to listen to Peter’s testimony and make it my own. Amen
