1. In 2 Peter 1:1-11, some special blessings are revealed that God has provided for the benefit of His people. a. According to 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. We learn from vs.5-11 that 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, the ability to control one's own life] is the third grace. e. "Patience" [endurance, perseverance, steadfastness, the ability to bear up under trials] is the fourth grace. 4. In this lesson we are concentrating on the fifth of the Christian graces: "godliness."
Discussion:
I. LET US DEFINE "GODLINESS"
A. Godliness: reverence or respect toward God, piety B. Illustration: Cornelius (Acts 10:1-2, 22). C. "Godliness" is an essential quality for the Christian because it is possible for a person to be good who has no reverence for God. D. However, to be accepted by God we must develop "godliness" (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
II. MANY SCRIPTURES TEACH US TO DEVELOP "GODLINESS"
A. (1 Timothy 4:7) We are to exercise ourselves unto "godliness." B. (1 Timothy 6:11) We are to follow after "godliness." C. (Titus 2:11-14) We are to live "godly" in this present world. D. Thankfully, God has given us "all things that pertain unto life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3). E. Activities such as Bible study, prayer, meditation, worship, and service are essential for the development of "godliness."
III. THE BIBLE CONTAINS WARNINGS THAT RELATE TO "GODLINESS"
A. God is not pleased with those who only have "a form of godliness" (2 Timothy 3:1-5). B. Those who profess true "godliness" will be adorned with good works (1 Timothy 2:9-10). C. We are to serve God "with reverence and godly fear" because He is a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:28-29). D. To be prepared for the Lord's return we must develop "godliness" (2 Peter 3:10-12).
IV. BLESSINGS ARE IN STORE FOR THOSE WHO DEVELOP "GODLINESS"
A. "Godliness is profitable unto all things" (1 Timothy 4:8). B. "Godliness with contentment is great gain" (1 Timothy 6:6). C. "The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations" (2 Peter 2:9).
