Strive to Thrive in 2025

Sermon on 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV) "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen."

Introduction: The apostle Peter writes to the scattered believers, urging them to be steadfast in their faith amidst the trials and false teachings they face.

In 2 Peter 3:18, he provides a vital exhortation that applies to every believer, regardless of the time or situation.

This verse calls us to grow, not in our own strength, but in God's grace and the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Growth in the Christian life is a continual, lifelong process, and it has eternal significance.

Let's break down this powerful verse into four points that will guide us through 2025

1: The Call to Grow in Grace

"But grow in grace..."

Explanation: Peter begins with a command to "grow in grace."

Grace is God's unmerited favor, which we receive through Jesus Christ.

It is the foundation of our salvation and spiritual life.

To grow in grace means to understand more fully the grace of God and to allow it to transform us.

This grace teaches us humility, forgiveness, patience, and a deep dependence on God's power rather than our own efforts.

Application: We are called to continually grow in grace through a deeper experience of God’s love, mercy, and forgiveness.

Are we becoming more aware of how much God has done for us in Christ?

Growing in grace involves recognizing our dependence on God, surrendering our pride, and living out the love and mercy we’ve received.

Ask yourself: How can I reflect God's grace in my actions, words, and attitudes today and the days ahead this year?

2: The Call to Grow in Knowledge of Jesus Christ

"...and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ..."

Explanation: Peter also calls believers to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Knowledge in this context is not merely intellectual understanding but a deep, personal relationship with Christ.

The more we know Jesus, the more we are transformed by Him.

This knowledge is not limited to knowing facts about Jesus but involves knowing Him intimately—His character, His will, and His love.

Application: To grow in knowledge of Jesus, we must spend time in prayer, study the Word of God, and seek to understand His ways more deeply.

It is through His Word and the Holy Spirit that we come to know Him better.

Ask yourself: How can I deepen my relationship with Christ this year?

Am I making time for personal devotion and reflection on His life and teachings?

3: The Goal of Our Growth

"To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen."

Explanation: The ultimate purpose of our growth in grace and knowledge is to bring glory to Jesus Christ.

Our lives are meant to reflect His character, His righteousness, and His love.

This glory is not just for a time on earth but is eternal, as we glorify Him now and for eternity.

Our growth is not for our own self-improvement, but for the honor and praise of Jesus Christ.

Application: In everything we do, our goal should be to glorify Christ.

Whether in our work, relationships, or daily actions, we should ask, "Does this bring glory to Jesus?"

The way we grow in grace and knowledge of Him should lead us to live lives that point others to His greatness.

Consider: How can my life bring glory to Jesus this year?

How can I make sure my growth in Christ leads to His honor, not my own?

4: The Necessity of Continual Growth

Explanation: Peter’s command to "grow" implies that the Christian life is not static; it is a continual process.

We are never to stop growing.

Our growth in grace and knowledge of Christ should increase every day.

Just as a plant must be nourished to grow, we too must continue to be nourished by God’s Word, prayer, and fellowship with other believers.

Application: We must commit to continual growth in our Christian journey.

This means that even if we’ve been walking with the Lord for many years, there is always room to grow deeper in our understanding and experience of His grace.

Challenge yourself: Am I complacent in my walk with God, or am I pressing forward to know Him more each day?

Conclusion:

2 Peter 3:18 calls us to grow in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ, with the ultimate goal of glorifying Him.

This growth is a lifelong process, and it requires intentional effort on our part.

But as we grow, we become more like Christ, and our lives testify to His greatness.

May we take these four points—growing in grace, growing in the knowledge of Jesus, glorifying Him, and committing to continual growth—to heart, and may we press on toward the fullness of Christ.

Let us pray for the strength to grow and for the wisdom to know Him more deeply, that in all things, He may be glorified.

Closing Prayer: Father, we thank You for Your grace and the invitation to grow in the knowledge of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to continually seek You and grow in Your grace. May our lives reflect Your glory, both now and forever. Guide us in our walk with You, and help us to never stop growing in our love for You. In Jesus' name, Amen.