Growing in Faith: An Eternal Perspective on Discipleship

Summary

### Summary

Today, we delved into the final chapter of 2 Peter, reflecting on the apostle's last words before his imminent death. Peter's focus was not on leaving a personal legacy but on ensuring that the believers he cared for were firmly rooted in their faith and prepared for the challenges ahead. He emphasized the importance of growing in our discipleship with Jesus, paying careful attention to Scripture, and being vigilant against false teachings. Peter's concern was that the believers would not be led astray by false teachers, a warning that is particularly relevant in our current age of information overload and media bombardment.

We discussed the concept of legacy and how, in our culture, it often becomes a self-centered pursuit. Peter, however, shifted the focus from a self-centered legacy to an eternal perspective, urging us to invest in others and point them towards Jesus. This eternal impact is far more significant than any temporary mark we might leave on the world.

We also explored the differences between exegesis and eisegesis in interpreting Scripture. Exegesis involves drawing out the original meaning of the text, considering its context, language, and historical background. In contrast, eisegesis involves reading our own experiences, biases, and desires into the text, which can lead to misinterpretation and misuse of Scripture. We must be cautious not to become our own false teachers by relying too heavily on eisegesis or proof-texting, which involves taking verses out of context to support a particular viewpoint.

Peter's final exhortation was to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, ensuring that we are not led off course by false teachings. This call to vigilance and growth is a powerful reminder of the importance of grounding ourselves in Scripture and seeking God's truth above all else.

### Key Takeaways

1. Eternal Perspective Over Personal Legacy: Peter's focus was on leaving an eternal impact rather than a personal legacy. He understood that our greatest contribution might be through the people we invest in and disciple, who in turn, impact others for the gospel. This eternal perspective shifts our focus from self-centered ambitions to a Christ-centered mission. [29:51]

2. Importance of Exegesis: Exegesis involves drawing out the original meaning of Scripture, considering its context, language, and historical background. This method helps us understand what the text meant to its original recipients and how it applies to us today. It ensures that we are aligning our understanding with God's intended message rather than our own biases. [48:22]

3. Dangers of Eisegesis and Proof-Texting: Eisegesis and proof-texting can lead to misinterpretation and misuse of Scripture. Eisegesis involves reading our own experiences and biases into the text, while proof-texting involves taking verses out of context to support a particular viewpoint. Both practices can make us our own false teachers, leading us away from God's truth. [55:50]

4. Vigilance Against False Teachings: Peter's warning against false teachers is particularly relevant in our age of information overload. We must be discerning with the teachings we engage with and ensure they align with Scripture. This vigilance helps us avoid being led astray and keeps us grounded in the truth of God's Word. [38:25]

5. Growing in Grace and Knowledge: Peter's final exhortation was to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This growth involves a humble approach to Scripture, seeking transformation into Jesus' image rather than validation of our own perspectives. It is a call to be continually shaped by God's truth. [37:33]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[16:51] - Offering and Announcements
[20:25] - Prayer Partners and Mission Trip
[21:54] - Office Admin Position and Yard Sale
[23:19] - VBS Preparations
[24:49] - Family Update and Mount Rainier
[26:15] - Introduction to 2 Peter
[27:49] - Legacy vs. Eternal Impact
[29:51] - Peter's Eternal Perspective
[31:44] - Self-Focused vs. Christ-Focused Living
[33:15] - Peter's Reminders in 2 Peter
[35:12] - Overview of 2 Peter
[38:25] - Vigilance Against False Teachings
[41:35] - Exegesis vs. Eisegesis
[55:50] - Proof-Texting and Its Dangers
[01:00:21] - Final Exhortation and Benediction
[01:02:06] - Closing and Chair Instructions

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. 2 Peter 1:12-15 (NIV)
> "So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, because I know that I will soon put it aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. And I will make every effort to see that after my departure you will always be able to remember these things."

2. 2 Peter 3:17-18 (NIV)
> "Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen."

3. 2 Peter 1:14 (NIV)
> "Because I know that I will soon put it aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me."

#### Observation Questions
1. What does Peter emphasize as his primary concern in his final letter? ([26:15])
2. How does Peter describe the importance of Scripture in the life of a believer? ([36:38])
3. What are the differences between exegesis and eisegesis as explained in the sermon? ([46:40])
4. What warning does Peter give about false teachers and how is it relevant today? ([38:25])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Peter focus on reminding believers of the truths they already know? How does this relate to his understanding of his imminent death? ([26:15])
2. How can the practice of exegesis help believers avoid the pitfalls of eisegesis and proof-texting? ([48:22])
3. What does it mean to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, according to Peter's final exhortation? ([37:33])
4. How does Peter's perspective on legacy differ from the modern cultural view of leaving a personal legacy? ([27:49])

#### Application Questions
1. Peter emphasizes an eternal perspective over a personal legacy. How can you shift your focus from self-centered ambitions to a Christ-centered mission in your daily life? ([29:51])
2. Reflect on a time when you might have read your own experiences or biases into Scripture (eisegesis). How can you practice more careful exegesis in your Bible study? ([48:22])
3. Peter warns against false teachings. What steps can you take to be more discerning with the teachings you engage with, especially in this age of information overload? ([38:25])
4. Growing in grace and knowledge involves a humble approach to Scripture. What specific actions can you take to ensure you are seeking transformation into Jesus' image rather than validation of your own perspectives? ([37:33])
5. Consider the people you are investing in and discipling. How can you be more intentional about pointing them towards Jesus and ensuring they are grounded in Scripture? ([29:51])
6. How can you guard yourself from becoming your own false teacher by relying too heavily on eisegesis or proof-texting? What practical steps can you take to ensure your understanding aligns with God's intended message? ([55:50])
7. Peter's final words urge believers to be on guard and grow in grace and knowledge. What specific areas of your life need more vigilance and growth? How can you address these areas this week? ([37:33])

Devotional

Day 1: Eternal Impact Over Personal Legacy
Peter's focus was on leaving an eternal impact rather than a personal legacy. He understood that our greatest contribution might be through the people we invest in and disciple, who in turn, impact others for the gospel. This eternal perspective shifts our focus from self-centered ambitions to a Christ-centered mission. In our culture, the pursuit of a personal legacy often becomes a self-centered endeavor, but Peter's example teaches us to prioritize the eternal over the temporal.

Peter's concern was that the believers he cared for would be firmly rooted in their faith and prepared for the challenges ahead. He emphasized the importance of growing in our discipleship with Jesus, paying careful attention to Scripture, and being vigilant against false teachings. By investing in others and pointing them towards Jesus, we can leave a lasting, eternal impact that far surpasses any temporary mark we might leave on the world. [29:51]

1 Corinthians 3:12-14 (ESV): "Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward."

Reflection: Think of someone in your life whom you can invest in spiritually. How can you begin to disciple them and point them towards Jesus today?

Day 2: Importance of Exegesis
Exegesis involves drawing out the original meaning of Scripture, considering its context, language, and historical background. This method helps us understand what the text meant to its original recipients and how it applies to us today. It ensures that we are aligning our understanding with God's intended message rather than our own biases. By practicing exegesis, we can avoid the pitfalls of misinterpretation and misuse of Scripture.

Understanding the original context of Scripture is crucial for accurate interpretation. When we approach the Bible with a desire to uncover its true meaning, we honor God's Word and allow it to transform us. Exegesis requires diligence and humility, as we seek to understand the text as it was intended by its original authors. This approach helps us grow in our knowledge of God and His will for our lives. [48:22]

2 Timothy 2:15 (ESV): "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."

Reflection: Choose a passage of Scripture to study this week. How can you apply the principles of exegesis to better understand its original meaning and context?

Day 3: Dangers of Eisegesis and Proof-Texting
Eisegesis and proof-texting can lead to misinterpretation and misuse of Scripture. Eisegesis involves reading our own experiences and biases into the text, while proof-texting involves taking verses out of context to support a particular viewpoint. Both practices can make us our own false teachers, leading us away from God's truth. It is essential to approach Scripture with a desire to understand God's message rather than to validate our own perspectives.

When we rely too heavily on eisegesis or proof-texting, we risk distorting the truth of God's Word. This can lead to false teachings and a misunderstanding of God's will for our lives. By being aware of these dangers, we can strive to interpret Scripture faithfully and accurately, allowing it to shape our beliefs and actions according to God's truth. [55:50]

2 Peter 3:16 (ESV): "As he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures."

Reflection: Reflect on a time when you may have interpreted Scripture to fit your own viewpoint. How can you approach the Bible with a more humble and open heart, seeking God's truth above your own?

Day 4: Vigilance Against False Teachings
Peter's warning against false teachers is particularly relevant in our age of information overload. We must be discerning with the teachings we engage with and ensure they align with Scripture. This vigilance helps us avoid being led astray and keeps us grounded in the truth of God's Word. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information, it is crucial to be discerning and to test everything against the truth of Scripture.

False teachings can come in many forms, and they often appeal to our desires and biases. By grounding ourselves in Scripture and seeking God's truth, we can protect ourselves from being deceived. This requires a commitment to studying the Bible and being aware of the potential for false teachings in the media and other sources we consume. [38:25]

1 John 4:1 (ESV): "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world."

Reflection: Think about the sources of information you regularly consume. How can you be more discerning and ensure that the teachings you engage with align with Scripture?

Day 5: Growing in Grace and Knowledge
Peter's final exhortation was to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This growth involves a humble approach to Scripture, seeking transformation into Jesus' image rather than validation of our own perspectives. It is a call to be continually shaped by God's truth. As we grow in our understanding of God's Word, we are better equipped to live out our faith and to share the gospel with others.

Growing in grace and knowledge requires a commitment to studying Scripture and seeking God's guidance in our lives. It involves a willingness to be transformed by God's truth and to align our lives with His will. By continually seeking to grow in our faith, we can become more like Jesus and reflect His love and grace to those around us. [37:33]

Colossians 1:9-10 (ESV): "And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."

Reflection: Identify one area of your life where you need to grow in grace and knowledge. What steps can you take this week to seek God's truth and allow it to transform you?

Quotes

### Quotes for outreach

1. "What if the greatest impact, the most significant legacy we have, is an eternal one because of the way we were obedient to Jesus and loved and served and invested in our families and those around us? What if the person that we invest in and disciple goes on to invest in and disciple someone else, who goes on to invest in and disciple someone else, who goes on to make a global impact for the gospel?" [29:51] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "What if we got up on a Sunday morning and instead of considering whether or not we feel like going to church or what we hope to get out of church, whatever that means, we consider how we may possibly be used by Jesus to encourage or empathize, to support or pray for or just be there for someone else who really needs it that morning. What if the focus was not on ourselves?" [32:32] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Think about it. There's never been a time in history where the word of God has been more available to more people than right now. I don't carry a phone when I'm on platform. But my phone, my Bible app, has over 70 English translations of the Bible that are instantly available to me. And that's just in one app and in English." [39:36] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "We must come to scripture humbly. With a desire to be transformed into Jesus' image. And guard ourselves from misusing scripture. And becoming our own false teacher." [01:00:21] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for members

1. "Peter was concerned and focused about the eternal aspects of our existence and making a difference that would last for eternity. He was focused on pointing people towards Jesus. And that would have a lasting and eternal impact and legacy." [29:51] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Peter understood this idea. He got it. This idea of shifting the focus from a self-centered inward desire to make an impact and leave a legacy to an outward-looking eternal perspective. And he lays it out twice in this short letter." [33:15] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Therefore, dear friends, since you have been warned in advance, be on guard so that you are not let off course. This topic was really on Peter's heart at the end of his life. He did not want to see false teaching compromise the gospel or compromise the faith of the people he cared about." [37:33] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "We can begin with what we are feeling and believe. And then go find scripture. And read that scripture into that perspective. Instead of reading scripture and pulling out of scripture. What God wants us to understand. We can become our own false teacher. Exactly what Peter was warning us about. When his life was ending." [59:11] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "I can't think of a better benediction today. In closing prayer. Than the last few verses. Of 2 Peter. So let this serve. As our benediction today. Therefore dear friends. Since you have been warned in advance. Be on guard. So that you aren't led off course. Into the error of sinful people. And lose your own safe position. Instead. Grow in the grace and knowledge. Of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him belongs glory. And forever. Amen." [01:01:25] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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