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Call to worship: Psalm 119:105-112

Text: 2 Peter 1:13-21

Summary:

As his time of departure draws near, Peter discloses his final will and testament to the church. His finishing desire is the church's assurance via godliness and their steadfastness therein. This passion presses him beyond himself to a time when he will no longer be with them and, therefore, to a foundation for faith more firm than a mere man can give. The light of the world exists in a dark place, meaning to deter the church's recollection of God's revelation. But Peter, in order to establish recollection, directs the church to the nature and, therefore, the certainty of Scripture concerning the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. In this vein and over against opponents, a holy people gives a measure of certainty. Eyewitness testimony adds to it. And the divine disclosure of Jesus' identity in His transfiguration gives still more. And yet, Peter says we have something even more sure: the prophetic Word. Scripture. It's the Lamp of God in this dark place and, thus, in keeping to Christ, we have no greater call than to give it our alertest attention. Spiritual wellness is measured in spiritual attentiveness to the Spirit's testimony in Scripture.

Main idea(s):

We do well as Christians to give spiritual attention to Scripture.

Sermon Outline:

1. Peter's undying passion: powerful Christianity. (1:13-16a)
2. The church's present problem: a habitat of darkness. (1:19)
3. God's sure guide: the lamp of Scripture. (1:16b-21)

Prepare

Discussion Questions:

1. Read 2 Peter 1:13-21.
2. In 2 Peter 1:13-16a, what do you discern of Peter's undying passion for the church? Why is Peter in earnest about this? Why is it important that we understand, as Peter desires, that Peter (or any mere man) is not the church's firm foundation?
3. In 2 Peter 1:19 and the immediate context, what do you see to be the problem the church faces, even to this day?
4. In 2 Peter 1:16b-21, how does Peter seek to strengthen the church against the allure of darkness? How do we recollect or remember what vital Christianity is all about?
5. In 2 Peter 1:16b-21, what steps does Peter take to arrive at the church's surest foundation for powerful Christianity in a habitat of darkness? I see four allies for steadfastness, culminating in the testimony of Scripture. Why would Scripture be 'more sure' than, say, the voice of God from Heaven at the transfiguration of Christ? What is Scripture? And what is Peter's main exhortation based upon it?