Linked UP Church
We all were created to live a fulfilling life that brings glory to God. At Linked UP Church, our Vision is to Connect people to God, Family, Purpose, and Community.
Pastor Joel E. Gregory
Grow in Perseverance
INTRODUCTION
1. We have observed that growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
2. Begins with the foundation of faith (conviction and trust).
3, To which we add the quality of virtue (striving for excellence).
4, Manifested by increasing in knowledge (regarding God’s will).
5. To which we add the grace of self-control (mastering one’s desires and passions).
7. In our text (2 Pe 1:5-8), we note that to self-control we are to add perseverance.
8. The KJV renders it patience (as does the NKJV in many places).
9. The RSV has the word steadfastness.
*Are you adding perseverance to your life as a Christian?
1. THE DEFINITION OF PERSEVERANCE
A. The Greek Word is Hupomone.
1. Literally, “an abiding under.”
2. Strong defines the word as “a cheerful (or hopeful) endurance.”
3. It implies suffering, enduring, or waiting, as a determination of the will and not simply under necessity. (ISBE)
2. PERSEVERANCE CAN BE BOTH PASSIVE AND ACTIVE.
A. In the passive sense, it would be like a ship anchored in a storm. Under attack by the wind and waves, yet remaining secured to that one spot by the anchor.
B. In the active sense, it is like a ship sailing despite the storm. Under attack by the same wind and waves, but pressing on to its destination despite the obstacles.
C. Adam Clarke describes it as “bearing all trials and difficulties with an even mind, enduring in all, and persevering through all.”
1. Best exemplified by Jesus. Hebrews 12:1-2
2. Also by Paul. 2 Timothy 3:10-11.
3. OUR SPIRITUAL GROWTH DEMANDS PERSEVERANCE.
A. NECESSARY FOR MATURITY.
1. We must allow patience (hupomone) to develop a mature character. Romans 5:1-5; James 1:4
2. We must bear fruit with patience (hupomone). Luke 8:15
B. NECESSARY TO ENDURE TRIALS.
1. Perseverance helped the Thessalonians to endure trials. 2Thessalonians 1:3-4
2. Even as it helped Job to endure his trials. James 5:11; Job 42:10
C. NECESSARY FOR ETERNAL LIFE.
1. We must be patient (hupomone) in doing good to receive eternal life. Romans 2:6-9
2. We must have patience (hupomone) to receive the promise. Hebrews 10:35-36
4. HOW PERSEVERANCE IS DEVELOPED.
A. Must have the right elements.
1. The Word of God, which provides patience (hupomone) and hope. Romans 15:4
2. A strong hope, which helps us to wait eagerly with perseverance. Romans 8:25
3. Prayer certainly helps, as Paul prayed for the Colossians. Colossians 1:11
4. Even tribulations themselves. Romans 5:3; James 1:3
B. Must have the right perspective.
1. Looking to Jesus. Hebrews 12:1-4
2. Looking to the prophets of old. Hebrews 11:32-38
3. Looking to each other. Hebrews 3:12-14; Hebrews 10:24-25
4. Looking at life with a positive attitude. James 1:2-3
5. Looking to the future. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
CONCLUSION:
Perseverance involves the idea of bearing up under trials and pressing on in times of tribulation, it means to spurn the trials while still doing what the Lord directs.
Self-control is a daily exercise. Perseverance is self-control exercised today, tomorrow, the next day, and so on which is why we need to “add” perseverance to self-control.
May we heed the admonition given to Timothy to “pursue...patience” in 1 Timothy 6:11. As we develop perseverance we will continue to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ!