Progressing Spiritually (2)

Text: “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).

I. Believe in Christ

“That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

A. We begin our spiritual journey by faith. When we repent of our sins and believe in Christ, we receive forgiveness.

B. Forgiveness brings a new life (2 Cor. 5:17). Our friends, amusements, desires, ambitions, and hopes for the future become new.

II. Belong to Christ

“Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God …” (Rom. 12:1).

A. Spiritual progress involves total commitment. When we surrender all to God, we are cleansed and filled with His love (1 John 1:7).

B. The Holy Spirit makes us pure and gives us peace and power, enabling us to persevere in trials and share Christ with others (Acts 1:8).

III. Be Used by Christ

“For we are labourers together with God” (1 Cor. 3:9).

A. The Christian life is not stationary. We are either going forward or backward. Many fail to make progress because they lack concern.

B. Doing God’s work brings spiritual growth. Helping the less fortunate, visiting the sick, and witnessing to the lost encourages progress (Eph. 4:32).

IV. Become Like Christ

“When he shall appear, we shall be like him” (1 John 3:2).

A. We should seek to be more like Christ. Imitating His love, compassion, and understanding brings maturity and growth.

B. Progress precedes promotion to our heavenly home. There we shall be like the Lord, and we shall live with Him forever (1 Thess. 4:17).

Russell E. Spray, Soul-Building Sermon Outlines, Sermon Outline Series (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1977), 26–27.