Growing in Grace

 MESSAGE | PASTOR JORDAN MOODY
Growing in Grace – 2 Peter 3:8-18; 1:3-8

INTRODUCTION: The Longing for Change   

 

A life of holiness and godliness (2 Peter 3:8-13) 

 

Be Diligent. Be Alert. (2 Peter 3:14-17) 

 

Grow in Grace (2 Peter 3:18) 

 

Implanted Power to Grow (2 Peter 1:1-4)  

Make Every Effort to Increase (2 Peter 1:5-8)   

 

SUMMARY: Guiding Assumptions & Goals 

 

CONCLUSION: Less Can Be More

 

 Small Group Discussion Questions

 

1. What comes to mind when you think of “means of grace” or “spiritual disciplines?” What are they? What are they not? 

2. Reflecting on 2 Peter 3:8-18 (particularly verses 11 and 14), what stands out about Peter’s call to pursue holiness and godliness? How does the promise of Christ’s return motivate us to live holy and diligent lives today?

3. What does it look like practically to “be diligent” and “make every effort” in your spiritual growth? Are there specific areas where you feel called to grow in holiness this year? (2 Peter 1:5; 3:14,18) 

4. Discuss the statement: “Grace is not opposed to effort; it is opposed to earning. Earning is an attitude; effort is an action.” (Dallas Willard). How does this idea help you balance dependence on God’s power with personal responsibility in spiritual growth? (Phil. 2:12-13) 

5. How can we avoid legalism in our pursuit of growing in grace and seeking transformation through spiritual disciplines? 

6. The illustration of the tree rings of growth related to pruning and thinning out distractions was used to show how less can lead to more growth. What distractions or “weeds” in your life might be choking out spiritual growth? What is one thing you could subtract to make more room for God’s grace to work in your life?