Prior Book | Prior Chapter | Prior Verse | Next Verse | Next Chapter | Next Book | Viewing NASB and Amplified 2015 | |
NASB | 2 Peter 3:18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 2 Peter 3:18 but grow [spiritually mature] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory (honor, majesty, splendor), both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. |
Subject: Grow in grace? |
Bible Note: Greetings Hank! Thanks for the reply. What happens when obedience becomes a means to an end? In other words, when the trust component is overlooked in our walk, we find ourselves marching along under our own power. I see this as an area to be concerned about in our churches. All too often I hear messages that focus on measuring the maturity of the believer based upon performance rather than on "growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ." When we are encouraged to passionately pursue a love relationship with the Lord, it will be reflected in what we do. The current catch phrase, "What would Jesus do?" would be consistent with "trust and obey" if it asked, "What DID Jesus do?" When we focus on the finished work of Christ, the mercy and grace that He gives to us, we are prompted to respond likewise in our relationships with others. I don't have to DO anything but respond to this Truth. But when a minister preaches that unless a believer is engaged in service at the church, gives or lives according to church standards, etc, then that individual is not fully surrendered to the Lord's ownership of their life - this strikes a sour note in my spirit. Can one ever attain personal holiness by their own efforts? This is what is being suggested when preachers tie performance to grace. If we would allow Christ to reign without these man made constraints, I suspect that the body would function as God designed it. To me, the message of "grace and" (aka performance Christianity) is what Paul called "another gospel." Well, these are just some thoughts I've been wrestling with lately as I realize how I too have fallen into this trap especially with my children ("So, did you go to church today?" might as well be heard as "If you didn't go to church you don't love God; you are no better than a heathen."!) mommapbs |