“Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you…” – 2 Peter 1:13
Scripture reading: 2 Peter 1:5-15
Peter writes to ‘stir us up’ (had he read Heb. 10:24?). His example is helpful for us as we consider how to stir up others! How did Peter do it?
First, Peter intentionally called the church to grow by ‘adding’ to their faith (v.5). He called them not to be satisfied merely with believing, but on top of believing to grow in virtue, knowledge, self-control, and much more. Here is a key to stirring up love and good works – it is the reminder that there is so much more to come in the Christian life, and we are to press on to attain it!
Second, Peter gave reasons for the church to press on in godliness. He warned that if they did not press on, they would gradually die in their Christian faith. They would become unfruitful as Christians, even forgetting what it meant to be cleansed from their sins! On the other hand, if they kept growing, the work of the Spirit in them would produce increasing fruit and assurance.
Growth in sanctification isn’t merely about God’s glory. The more we grow in Christ, the greater the blessing we experience!
How can we stir up others? Recognize and share that growing in Christ is fundamental to the joy and blessing of Christian living. Going further up and further in, confirms our faith and magnifies the joy of knowing Jesus.
Suggestions for prayer
Let us ask God to show us the joy of growing in Christ.
Pastor Greg Bylsma is the pastor of the Living Water Reformed Church of Brantford, Ontario (a member church of the URCNA). He is a graduate of Mid-America Reformed Seminary and was ordained to the Gospel ministry in 2005. After over 20 years in the ministry, he still loves his job and considers it an incredible honour to be able to teach others about the beauty of Jesus Christ. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.