As Peter approaches his own martyrdom he is resolved in reminding us to continue to press onward and grow in our faith so that we can be assured of our calling and election.

How the gospel can transform our hearts and help us to grow in grace.

Introduction to II Peter. Peter was alarmed that false teachers were beginning to infiltrate the churches so he wrote this letter for the purpose of strengthening his fellow Christians in their faith so that they could perceive and fight the spread of heresy by stressing the true knowledge of God and the sure return of the Lord Jesus.

Peter concludes his letter reassuring the believers in Asia Minor that they are not alone, suffering will only be a little while, God is sovereign and at work, and that they will make it through by standing firm in the true grace of God.

As the church, under the headship of Christ we are called to humility, submitting to the mighty hand of God, casting everything upon Him. We are to stand firm in our faith and salvation, resisting the devil and turning to the truth of the gospel.

In light of suffering for doing good and God’s judgment upon the Church Peter exhorts the leaders (Pastor/Elders) of the church to shepherd with a spirit of humility.

Christians will encounter many fiery trials and difficulties but in the midst of suffering according to God’s will, we are to entrust ourselves to our faithful Creator.

Suffering offers an opportunity for us to grow in Christ-likeness by obeying God and loving and serving others.

Our suffering Savior demonstrates the greatest act of suffering and submission through His sacrifice on the cross, reigning victorious over sin and death.

In trying to live God-glorifying lives we will inevitably suffer, but it is a better witness to endure the trials and suffer for doing good than to repay with evil.