Godliness
2 Peter 1:5-11 Introduction:
A. Peter in this passage reminds us we must grow in our service to God.
B. Eight areas for growth listed here.
C. In this lesson we will look at Godliness
Discussion:
I. What Is Godliness?
A. Webster defines as
1. Godlike - resembling or having the qualities of God or a god: divine
2. Godly - divine; pious, devout
B. Bible defines as
1. 2150 eusebeia - godliness 14, holiness 1; 15
2. reverence, respect
3. piety towards God, godliness
C. A practical definition would be
1. Showing God like qualities
2. God-like-ness
II. Why do we need Godliness?
A. In our relationship with God
1. It brings us closer to God
2. Only a God like character can bring salvation
B. In our relationship with our brethren
1. If all are Godly we will work together for good
2. We will deal properly with our fellow Christians
C. In our relationship with alien sinners
1. We will exhibit the same patience and love toward the lost soul 2Pet 3:9
2. We will be willing to sacrifice to save the lost Jhn 3:16
III. How do we get or develop Godliness?
A. Can we be like God and not know God?
B. We must study His word to learn of Him
1. All things pertain to life and godliness 2Pet 1:3
2. Keep my words, Father will abide Jhn 14:23
C. Only a Christian can truly be God-like
1. No man cometh unto Father but by me Jhn 14:6
2. God's grace to all, but Godly life comes from obeying teachings Tit 2:11-12
IV. What qualities make us God like?
A. Love (God is love)
1. Love for all Rom 5:8; Eph 2:4
2. To regulate conduct toward others Eph 5:1-2
3. A debt that is never fully paid Rom 13:8 Never work ill v. 10
B. Mercy
1. "Tender mercies...ever of old" Psa 25:6; abundant 1Pet 1:3
2. Character of blessed in the kingdom Mt 5:7
3. "Put on" as clothing befitting life of one in Christ Col 3:12
C. Forgiveness (Expression of mercy) Tit 3:5
1. David's desire Psa 25:7
2. Need for forgiveness illustrated by parable of two servants Mt 18:23-35
a. "Forgave" v. 32, "Had mercy" v. 33 ASV
b. No hope for forgiveness if unwilling to forgive from heart v. 35
D. Benevolent (acts of kindness, mercy)
1. Sunshine and rain on evil, good; just and unjust Mt 5:45
2. Judgment without mercy when show no mercy Jas 2:13-17
3. Tend to forget still many don't enjoy abundance
a. "Piety, religion" to begin at home 1Tim. 5:4
b. Responsibility not confined to next door, or congregation we worship
E. Impartial
1. God is no respecter of persons Acts 10:34-35
2. Favor to rich problem with God's people in every age Jas 2:1-3
3. God is "color blind" in spiritual matters Acts 10:34 Jew/Gentile
F. Holy
1. Nature of God 1Pet 1:15: Christ Heb 7:26
2. Must "come out, touch not the unclean" 2Cor. 6:17 3. Hate garments spotted by the flesh Jude 23
V. What is the result of strengthening our Godliness?
A. In the physical realm
1. Profitable unto all things 1Tim 4:8
2. Godliness with contentment great gain 1Tim 6:6
3. Prosper in this life Mt 6:33
B. In the spiritual realm
1. Eternal life Mk 10:30; 1Jhn 2:24-25
2. Living according to God's Word will be rewarded Mt 16:24-27
C. In our dealing with others
1. We will be fair and honest and more likely to really prosper and enjoy our time on earth as we prepare for Heaven
2. We will be busy doing all we can to teach others the Gospel that they might be saved Jhn 3:16
Conclusion:
A. What about you?
B. How strong is your Godliness?
C. What changes should you make to begin growing as you should?
D. Invitation to the lost.
This outline by Daniel Lee Henderson of Jasper, Texas
Go to Next Characteristic: Brotherly Kindness
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