08 Nov 2026
1) REASON. We make every effort to grow because God has granted us everything needed for growth (v3–4). His work in us is the basis for our effort. Christian growth requires dependence and diligence. 2) RESPONSIBILITY. We must add to our faith the seven virtues in v5–7: virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection and love. Through our ABCD, we put away immorality, ignorance, indulgence, impatience, irreverence, indifference and individualism. 3) RESULT. Christian growth is more than reward; it evidences salvation, though it does not earn it. God has given us power and provision to battle sin. So make every effort, practise ABCD, reject the seven “I”s, and grow in grace.
The sermon explains how Christians are to grow in faith through dependent diligence, cultivating Christlike qualities as evidence of salvation.
Growth Basis
• God has reached out, rescued, renewed, and resourced believers; this provision motivates effort rather than eliminating responsibility.
• Christian growth involves both dependence on God and diligent action, avoiding both pride and passivity.
Virtues Pursued
• Believers are urged to add goodness, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love to their faith.
• Pastor Jason describes growth as acknowledging personal inability, trusting God’s provision, asking for help, and obeying.
Growth Results
• Increasing in these qualities makes believers effective and fruitful and strengthens assurance of their calling and election.
• Growth is presented as evidence, not the means, of salvation; it points toward entrance into God’s eternal kingdom.
Basis for Growth
• Peter’s call to make every effort follows God’s provision of what believers need for life and godliness.
• Growth requires dependence on God alongside diligent effort.
Qualities to Cultivate
• The seven qualities are goodness, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love.
• Pastor Jason contrasts them with immorality, ignorance, indulgence, impatience, irreverence, indifference, and individualism.
• Practical growth involves acknowledging inability, trusting God’s provision, seeking God’s help, and obeying.
Evidence and Outcome
• These qualities should be present and increasing; Christian service without character growth may be ineffective or unfruitful.
• Spiritual growth manifests genuine salvation and supports assurance, perseverance, and entrance into the eternal kingdom.
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