In what ways can we spiritually "escape" from worldly influences? Key Verse “Through these He has given us His precious and magnificent promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” (2 Peter 1:4) What We’re Escaping • The “corruption that is in the world through lust” • Empty values, godless thinking (Colossians 2:8) • Passing pleasures that war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11) How God Makes Escape Possible • He grants “everything we need for life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3) • His Spirit indwells us, empowering holy living (Romans 8:9–14) • His promises anchor hope and motivate obedience (Hebrews 6:17–19) Practical Ways to Step Into That Escape 1. Cultivate an Intimate Knowledge of Christ – Daily Scripture intake (Psalm 1:2–3) – Ongoing conversation with Him in prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17) 2. Add Virtue upon Virtue (2 Peter 1:5–7) – Faith → virtue → knowledge → self-control → perseverance → godliness → brotherly kindness → love – Growth in these traits crowds out worldly affections. 3. Guard the Mind – Filter entertainment and information (Philippians 4:8) – “Take every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). 4. Choose God-Centered Relationships – Walk with those who call on the Lord “from a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22). – Gently but firmly distance from persistent, corrupting influences (1 Corinthians 15:33). 5. Practice Regular Self-Examination – Ask: Is this drawing me closer to Christ or dulling my love for Him? (2 Corinthians 13:5) – Confess and forsake sin quickly (1 John 1:9). 6. Embrace Spiritual Disciplines – Fasting: breaks attachment to the world’s appetites (Matthew 6:16–18). – Generous giving: loosens grip on materialism (Matthew 6:19–24). 7. Stand Firm in Spiritual Warfare – Don the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10–18). – Resist the devil; he will flee (James 4:7). The Result of Walking This Path • Fruitful, effective knowledge of Jesus (2 Peter 1:8) • Steadfast assurance and stability (2 Peter 1:10) • A vibrant witness that draws others toward the same escape (Matthew 5:14–16) |
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