2 Peter 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. I. THE ORDINANCES OF THE NEW TESTAMENT ARE MEANS OF IMPROVEMENT IN RELIGION. 1. Divine revelation, by its influence on the understanding, the heart, the will, and the conscience of man, in every condition of life, promotes the Christian's growth in holiness, in comfort, and in usefulness. 2. The sacraments are means of improvement in religion. 3. Conversation among private Christians is one of the means of growth in knowledge, in holiness, and in usefulness. It is itself a part of our religious enjoyments; and the means of increasing both the desire and the capacity for more enjoyment. 4. Prayer. II. JUDICIOUS REFLECTIONS UPON OUR PERSONAL CONCERNS, IN THE LIGHT OF DIVINE REVELATION, HAVE A GREAT INFLUENCE UPON OUR RELIGIOUS IMPROVEMENT. 1. Let us consider the sinfulness of our disposition and deportment. 2. A due consideration of God's providence respecting us tends to our personal progress in true religion. 3. Meditations on the love of God are conducive to the improvement of the Christian character. 4. Judicious reflections upon our own mortality, and the future state which we are daily approaching, have a tendency to prepare us for both. III. DIVINE INFLUENCES ARE REQUIRED AND EMPLOYED IN THE PROGRESSIVE IMPROVEMENT OF THE SAINTS. 1. The Spirit presents to the saints the proper objects of pursuit. 2. The Spirit directs the affections of the heart to spiritual objects. 3. Divine influence strengthens the saints for every duty.Conclusion: 1. I observe that there are different degrees of gracious attainments, and I urge upon all ranks the duty of further progress — "Grow in grace." 2. Be not discouraged although your progress in religion is neither as uniform nor as rapid as you first expected it should actually prove. (A. McLeod, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. |
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