This Present Truth – Week 22 / May 27th

The Apostle Peter is addressing believers and calling upon them to remain steadfast and faithful to the “present truth.”(2Peter1:12) that is, there is a “truth” that is always with us and comes with the seal and blessing of Heaven. This truth is unchangeable and it is totally reliable and has the power to determine our eternal destiny. This is the truth about Jesus’ transforming power. In the verses before Peter has told us that salvation has to do with a personal, that is real, knowledge of Jesus. This knowledge of Jesus is based upon and made entirely possible by His death on the cross for us. This death was all sufficient and brought us into fellowship with God. Thereby we are:

1. Given everything we need to live a godly life. (2Peter 1:3) The follower of Jesus is not short of ability and grace to become what God wants him or her to be. We have everything we need! This is present truth and we must embrace it and quit make excuses for our failures. It is truly time for the people of God to grow up and appropriate all that God in Christ has for them.

2. Given wonderful promises from God’s word by which to know the boundaries of His will and the nature of His purpose. Christians should be reliable and faithful dividers of God’s word. Living in God’s present truth means living in God’s word. Read it, read it and the read it again! Your life depends upon it and James writes that we must receive the word implanted that is able to save our souls. (James1:21)

3. Given the divine character. (2Peter1:4) Our world is filled with corruption. This downward plunge of the human condition is escalating as people embrace dirty life styles that are condemned by the word of God. The fact that most people do these things doesn’t make it right. Hitler came to power by a democratic process in Germany. This did not make his rise to power right. We all know the consequences! This present truth consists of becoming like Jesus from within and thus embracing His character by the power of the Holy Spirit. If we do not change we are simply not His. Truly we must make our election and calling sure as not everyone who exclaims, ” Lord, Lord” will be saved. Are you saved?

Embracing the “present truth” is therefore an urgent business and Peter was deeply concerned that his readers would do just that.In fact he states that as long as he is in his earthly body he would remind believers of their obligations to the present truth. (2Peter1:13-15) Don’t neglect the above, give it careful attention and thought and the God of peace will be with you and an abundant welcome will await you in Heaven.

Malcolm Hedding.

©Malcolm Hedding Ministries

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