Partakers of the Divine Nature

The Evangelical Herald -- Bible Study No. 00-03

PARTAKING OF THE DEVINE NATURE

Text: 2 Peter 1:4

Focus: Partaking of the Divine Nature means that we Cooperate with God in Cultivating His Attributes in Us

I. Growth -- a Divine principle (Eph.4:13, 1 Peter 2:2)

A. Cultivating God's Nature (Eph 4:22-24)

B. Cooperating with God (Rom 12:1-2)

C. State of Grace (2 Peter 3:18)

II. Attributes for Growth

A. Love

1. Kindness 4. Humility

2. Caring 5. Service

3. Respect 6. Forgiving

B. Justice

1. Moral excellence

2. Liberty

3. Law (principles of kingdom)

C. Wisdom

1. Immersed in His Word

2. Renewed Mind (mind eager to learn)

3. Spiritual Understanding

D. Power

1. Empowerment of Spirit

2. God's presence

3. Works of God

III. Manifestation of Growth in our Natures

A. Fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23)

B. Assurance of Communion with Father (Heb 10:22)

C. Sharers of Life (2 Cor 5:18-20)

D. Good Works (Eph 2:10)

Conclusion: As born again Christians, we must be grounded in His Word -- submitting ourselves to His leading that we may produce fruits that reflect His Character.