1. In 2 Peter 1:1-11, some special blessings are revealed that God has provided for the benefit of His people. a. (vs.3-4) He has provided what we need so we can be "partakers of the divine nature," including: 1) "all things that pertain unto life and godliness" 2) "exceeding great and precious promises." b. (vs.5-11) He has provided "the Christian graces" to prevent His people from falling. 2. The 7 graces listed in vs.5-7 are to be added with "all diligence." 3. Review: a. "Faith" is the foundation upon which these graces are to be added. b. "Virtue" [courage, the determination to do what is right] is the first grace. c. "Knowledge" [moral wisdom, such as seen in right living] is the second grace. d. "Temperance" [self-control, self-discipline, mastering the desires and passions, the ability to control one's own life] is the third grace. 4. In this lesson we are concentrating on the fourth of the Christian graces: "patience." Discussion: I. LET US DEFINE "PATIENCE"
A. One word in the New Testament that is translated "patience" refers to "forbearance" or "longsuffering" (James 5:7-8). B. However, "patience" (2 Peter 1:6) refers to "endurance," "perseverance," "steadfastness," or "the ability to bear up under trials." II. WHY "PATIENCE" MUST BE DEVELOPED
A. Included in the instructions given in Romans 12 is the admonition to be "patient in tribulation" (vs.12). 1. Christians are not immune to tribulation (Acts 14:22). 2. Without "patience," tribulation can cause a person to fall away (Matthew 13:20-21). B. (Luke 21:19) Jesus said: "In your patience possess ye your souls." III. HOW "PATIENCE" IS DEVELOPED
A. "Patience" is developed as a result of going through "tribulation" (Romans 5:3). B. Some important instructions relating to "patience" are given in: 1. Romans 8:18 2. 1 Corinthians 10:13 3. Hebrews 4:14-16 4. James 1:2-8, 12. IV. SOME BENEFITS OF DEVELOPING "PATIENCE"
A. "Patience" will help us while we wait for the reward we hope to receive (Romans 8:24-25). B. "Patience" will help us in "bearing fruit" (Luke 8:15; John 15:8). C. "Patience" will help us in our prayer lives (Psalm 40:1). V. BIBLE CHARACTERS WHO DEVELOPED "PATIENCE"
