Most of us are keenly aware of the qualities we lack in following Jesus. As a result, we possess the assurance of our weakness instead of the assurance of his faithfulness. Perhaps you’re like me: from time to time I catch myself thinking, “If I only had a little more faith I could be a better disciple.” Or, “If I only tried harder . . .” or “I’ll never be able to do this.”
Let me share with you a passage from Peter’s second letter that changed my life forever. Following Jesus no longer seems like an impossibility. Now it feels like I’m not on my own, but the Holy Spirit empowers me to do it!
“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort . . .” 2 Peter 1:3-5
7 Truths About Following Jesus From 2 Peter
1. “His divine power . . .”
In following Jesus, our everyday life in Christ should be based upon his divine power, not our human strength. Our lives in Christ began with the miracle of our new birth. He did something for us we could not do for ourselves. Each continuing day with him should be based on this same revelation–we need his divine power daily.
2. “Has given us everything we need for life and godliness . . .”
The problem is, most of us think that God did “his part” on the cross and now the rest is up to us. It’s a common mistake, Paul needed to remind the Galatians that what was begun in the Holy Spirit could not be finished in the flesh. The good news is ongoing; he isn’t finished dispensing his grace!
3. “Through our knowledge of him . . .”
Roadblock! Our western mindset leads us to believe that the knowledge of him comes through mere study. I’m pretty sure Peter is not urging us toward an academic knowledge of Jesus. There’s nothing wrong with the study of Jesus, but a more fruitful approach is to know him by experiencing his presence.
