Sermons
Sermons from Bay Vista Baptist ChurchGrowing Up
Peter concludes his letter to the early church by reminding them to grow in both the grace and the knowledge of God. This is the way the church under fire can withstand adversity, both from without and from within.
Always Be on Guard
Peter is nearing the end of his letter, but he uses the first part of his conclusion to remind his readers of their vulnerability to false teachers. He calls Christians to be committed to God’s Word, and to remain in fellowship with other believers, to help us resist being carried away from the faith.
How, Then, Shall We Live?
In view of what Peter has just laid out for his readers regarding the impotency of false teachers and the surety of Christ’s return, he asks and answers the question of how we should live. We should be eager for Christ’s return, while living holy lives marked with peace and gratitude.
He IS Coming Back!
After debunking the false teachers, Peter turns his attention to those who scoff at Christians over the doctrine of Jesus’ bodily return to earth. While we still believe He is returning “soon,” we must view that from His perspective, and take confidence from the fact that He has promised to return.
Powerless Poseurs
Up to this point, Peter has painted a very negative picture of the false teachers preying on the early church. In today’s Scripture, he reminds them that, while they need to be vigilant against false teaching, these teachers are ultimately powerless, and that their end will be harsh.
Intentional Ungodliness
Peter explains that these false teachers are not just misguided; they are arrogant predators who reject the very truth that could save them. We must, rather, embrace teachers who mirror humility, discipleship, and a willingness to live for the Lord.
Our Protector
After discussing those who would destroy the Church from within, Peter presents a long if/then statement. In it, he assures his readers that the ungodly are judged, even if it doesn’t seem like judgment is coming; and that God consistently rescues His people in their time of need.
False Prophets and Teachers
If the theme of 2 Peter is “the Church under fire from within,” this is the place where Peter describes the threat. These wolves among the sheep are something for which we should be alert, while understanding their motivation and acknowledging the judgment waiting for those who would try to destroy the Body of Christ from within.
The Prophetic Word
Before Peter starts in on the false teachers, he gives the believers encouragement, to strengthen their faith. Our faith in Christ s is a faith that is based on the witness of God the Father, recorded in the written Word, and continues through the work of the Holy Spirit.
A Confirmed Calling
Peter encourages the church to continue to assure themselves of their position in Christ. By testing and confirming our faith, know that we can rely on it when we need it.