Partakers Of The Divine Nature 2 Peter 1:4 Series

Partakers of the Divine Nature 2 Peter 1:4

Introduction:

Today we embark on a journey of discovery into the transformative power of God's truth, as revealed in 2 Peter 1:4. In this passage, Peter unveils a profound truth about our identity as believers—our participation in the divine nature. Let us delve into this scripture and uncover its riches, allowing it to deepen our understanding of who we are in Christ and how we are called to live transformed lives.

2 Peter 1:4 (NLT) "And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires."

Point 1: God's Promises Enable Us to Share His Divine Nature

In this verse, Peter highlights the foundational role of God's promises in our transformation. These promises, rooted in God's glory and excellence, are not merely words but powerful tools that enable us to partake in the divine nature. As believers, we are invited into a union with God Himself, experiencing His character, attributes, and purposes in our lives. This participation in the divine nature is made possible through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, who empowers and transforms us from within.

God's promises, as revealed in Scripture, are not empty words but declarations of His faithfulness and power. They serve as catalysts for our spiritual growth and enable us to live godly lives.

2 Corinthians 1:20 (NLT): "For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding 'Yes!' And through Christ, our 'Amen' (which means 'Yes') ascends to God for his glory."

This verse underscores the certainty and reliability of God's promises. In Christ, every promise finds its fulfillment, confirming God's faithfulness and His commitment to His people.

Romans 4:20-21 (NLT): "Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises."

The faith of Abraham serves as a powerful example. Despite facing seemingly impossible circumstances, Abraham's unwavering trust in God's promises strengthened his faith and glorified God.

Charles Spurgeon once said, "God’s promises are like the stars; the darker the night, the brighter they shine."

Romans 8:11 (NLT): "The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you."

This verse speaks to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers. Just as the Spirit raised Christ from the dead, He empowers believers to experience newness of life and transformation.

Point 2: Escaping the Corruption of the World

Peter also emphasises that God's promises enable us to escape the corruption of the world caused by human desires. The world around us is tainted by sin and its destructive influences, leading to moral decay and spiritual death. However, through our participation in the divine nature, we are empowered to overcome the sinful inclinations of the flesh and live holy and righteous lives that honor God.

The corruption of the world refers to the sinful and fallen state of humanity, characterised by disobedience and rebellion against God.

Romans 1:21-25 (NLT): "Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles. So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies. They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen."

These verses depict the downward spiral of humanity's rebellion against God. Despite knowing God, people suppressed the truth and worshipped created things instead of the Creator. This led to spiritual darkness and moral degradation.

Ephesians 2:1-3 (NLT): "Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God’s anger, just like everyone else."