This is the last week of This Is the New Testament! Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book or two of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we will finish reading the General Epistles and move on to Apocalyptic Literature.
What Is 2 Peter? In 2 Peter, the apostle Peter cautions believers against false teachers and immoral behavior. He also emphasizes Christ’s second coming and the importance of an active, growing faith as we await Christ’s return.
How 2 Peter Fits Into the Story: Second Peter is strongly tied to the Old Testament. In it, Peter highlights the significance of God’s Word through statements on the origin of Scripture, as well as the inspired nature of Paul’s letters. Peter challenges his audience to live with authenticity, clinging to Scripture as a guide for faithful living.
Reflection Questions:
1. What are some characteristics of a believer who is growing in the Christian faith? According to 2 Peter 1:3–21, how does God’s power help us grow in spiritual maturity?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
KERI BREWSTER –
Baptism is a special part of the church regardless of how you interpret the Bible. Where I land with baptism is whether you know exactly how it works or why it’s a huge deal to some people, ask God to reveal how He can use it in your life. I see it as a powerful tool to move towards God. My heart soars every time I see a baptism, and often I cry. God has called someone, they say yes, and they bring that yes to the community. It’s beautiful. Why not get baptized if you follow Jesus? The Bible says “believe and be baptized.” That’s good enough for me.
Humbled by God’s patient daily work in me. Amazed by how far I’ve come. As I go through life I have to occasionally look back to see who I was because my actions and struggles seem to never change.
“But God…
being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.” Ephesians 2:4, 5 ESV
AND
“Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you WILL carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 NIV
Thank you, God, for pursuing me!
Thank you, Jesus, for Your finished work!
Thank you, Holy Spirit, for your constant presence to guide me to a deeper intimacy with You! And giving me eyes to see how I can serve You in the world.
Good Morning all my Sisters, God’s word illuminates so much and I love the questions it makes me consider. Like today, is my faith in Jesus producing good works. Am I finding and doing the works that God has given me and do I give Him the glory? My answer is I do see God working in my life, and sometimes through me. And sometimes in spite of me. But I know He is working, fighting for, loving and I pray that I can be a part of what He is doing, though I fail, He does not. Thankful. for grace in it all. Melanie, praying for your son, that God gives him strength and shows Him he is not alone this day, but has Jesus walking with him. Praying for him to see the good and joy for his heart. And peace for your sister in the EEG, and His good in this. Joy and love to your day Sisters.
Maura, you remain on my mind and in my prayers since your “announcement”. I am praying that you and your children are okay and at peace.
Tina thank you for your sharing,as always i am blessed by another sister that helps me see this struggle in earth is real for all of us. I am so humbled some days at my words or thought. God thank you for a new beginning everyday. Thank you for your Never ending, And unlimited forgiveness
Lord I need YOU. Amen.
Tina, I remember when you told us the story of the bar owner and the dog. The part that stuck with me is that you were obedient,albeit with some hesitancy, and went back to apologize to the owner. I’ve thought abut that and how it wasn’t the apology, but the obedience that God desired from you. He calls us to have a soft and humble heart. I believe that He uses experiences like that to keep us focused on Him. As you said, it is those little steps that move us to where He desires us to be.
Loving all the comments so far this morning! As I was re-reading the 2 Peter passage in response to the 1st question I found myself wondering what “level” I was on in this progression. I found myself landing somewhere in the middle of self-control and perseverance, but I also feel like at times I struggle with faith, goodness, and knowledge. I feel like there are days that challenge every one of these qualities, but we can know and trust that God is not finished with us yet and continues to sanctify us day by day. Lord may I surrender every part of me to you so that I may become more and more like Jesus!
… the power of His Holy Spirit inside of me to guide me!