Introduction

1. The first few verses of Peter's second letter and powerful indeed

2. In these few verses he gives us the key to partaking of the Divine nature

3. We see great and precious promises that are within our grasp

4. Yet we see the things we must do to have them

5. Consider these verses together

Body

 I. For This Very Reason - verse 5

A. This is where we usually begin in studying the chapter

1. However Peter is referencing us back to verses 2-4 when he says for this very reason

2. Consider II Peter 1:2-4

B. Given us all things that pertain to life and godliness

1. This comes through a knowledge of Christ

2. Through knowing Christ we have what we need to succeed spiritually

C. Given us exceedingly great and precious promises

1. Spiritual life vs. spiritual death

2. Eternal heaven vs. eternal hell

3. Children of God vs. children of satan

4. Forgiveness vs. condemnation

5. All of the great and precious promises of God

D. We may partake of the divine nature

1. Through the promises we can take on a new nature

2. We have the opportunity to be like God

3. We can conform to His image

4. In doing so we partake of His divine nature and escape the corruption of the world

II. Giving All Diligence - verse 5

A. Not just a casual glance

1. Too many look at the process of adding to our faith and brush it off after a casual glance

2. Perception is that somehow simple attendance and listening to sermons from time to time will provide me with all that I need spiritually

3. However, Peter is clear when he says "giving all diligence".  It will take more than a casual glance to have the blessings of Christ

B. It urges strong devotion

1. It points to a process of continual development

2. It points to a focus of life and consistent effort

3. To give all diligence means hard work - focus - devotion

III. Add To Your Faith - verses 5-7

A. Qualities that emulate the divine nature

1. As we build on the foundation of faith we grow closer and closer to the divine nature

2. We begin to look more and more like Jesus

B. It pictures for us strength

1. The foundation of a house is not strong until we have added the structure

2. So with a Christian.  The foundation of faith is not strong until virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love have been added

3. This is when we see true lasting strength

IV. The Results - verses 8-9

A. He who lacks

1. Shortsighted to the point of blindness

2. Forgotten that he has been forgiven

3. Ultimately his faith fails

B. He who has

1. Is not barren nor unfruitful

2. Is an active part of kingdom

3. Abounds in service to God

Conclusion

1. These will determine our spiritual success or failure

2. Eternal life is at stake

3. II Peter 1:10-11