“Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. [18] 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.” 2 Peter 3:17-18
In life, you’re either growing or dying. Just like trees that grow until they begin to die, we, too, face two paths in our spiritual journey. Our text today presents us with a choice between two roads: falling away or growing in grace.
Our passage, II Peter 3:17-18, starkly contrasts the dangerous path of falling away from following the Lord with the rewarding journey of growing in His grace and knowledge. The text warns us about “being led away” into error by the wicked, highlighting the subtle and often unnoticed nature of spiritual decline. Falling away, then, is not a sudden plunge but a gradual drift, guided by wicked influences intent on drawing us away from the Lord.
Conversely, the process of growing in grace is an intentional, purposeful endeavor. Unlike the nature of falling away, growth in grace and knowledge is a deliberate act, a conscious choice to draw closer to God.
How can we ensure we’re on the path of growth in grace and knowledge rather than decline? Of course, we must pray, read our Bible and attend church faithfully. But how do we exercise grace and knowledge in our life?
Here are three ways:
- Grow in Grace by Using Your Gifts
“Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us,” Romans 12:6b
This verse from Romans 12:6 reminds us that we are each endowed with unique gifts, bestowed upon us by grace. Growing in grace involves recognizing these gifts and using them in service to others and to glorify God. Whether it’s the gift of prophecy, teaching, serving, or any other gift, using them not only strengthens our faith but also builds up the church. This purposeful use of our gifts is a concrete step toward growing in grace.
- Grow in Grace by Sharing the Gospel
“For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.” 1 Corinthians 3:9-10
These verses emphasize our role as co-laborers with God in the spreading of the Gospel. By actively participating in this divine work, we not only contribute to the foundation laid by apostles like Paul but also engage in a purposeful act of grace. Sharing the Gospel isn’t just an act of obedience; it’s a means through which we can grow in grace, as it aligns our purpose with God’s and strengthens our faith through witnessing others come to know Him!
- Grow in Grace by Using Your Infirmities
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
In these powerful verses, Paul speaks to the paradox of strength in weakness. Growing in grace often means embracing our vulnerabilities and infirmities, recognizing them as opportunities for God’s grace to shine through. Our weaknesses are not impediments to spiritual growth; rather, they are occasions for God’s power to manifest in our lives, demonstrating that true strength comes from relying on Him.
Growing in grace is not incidental; it requires intention, effort, and the wise use of the gifts and opportunities God provides us. By using our gifts, sharing the Gospel, and embracing our infirmities, we can ensure that we are on the path of growth, drawing ever closer to God and His infinite grace.
