Скачать или смотреть Part 1: Growing in Grace and Knowledge | 2 Peter 1:1-11; Luke

Growing in Grace and Knowledge: The Path to Spiritual Maturity

2 Peter 1:1-11; Luke 22:31-34,54; John 21:11-19

Pastor Jon Hanson

Introduction
What happens when we fail YHWH? We all do at times. We may break a promise or let someone down. These failures are not final. God is there to pick up the pieces and give us purpose. As we begin our study of 2 Peter, we will consider only the first two words of the letter – Simon Peter. God’s grace was in full display in the life of Peter.
Peter’s Key Experiences
Peter was among the first to be called by Jesus (Luke 5:1-11)
Peter walked on water (Matt 14:28-31)
Peter was the first to confess that Jesus is the Christ of God (Matt 16:16-19)
Peter witnessed the Transfiguration (Matt 17:1-9)
Peter’s Failure and Remorse (Luke 22:54-62)
Peter claims he will face whatever Jesus faces – prison or death.
Yet, Peter later claims “I do not know Him,” “I am not [one of them],” “I do not know what you are saying” when he is confronted regarding Jesus.
When the rooster crowed, Peter wept bitterly.
Peter’s Restoration and Renewed Purpose (John 21:11-19)
Jesus seeks out Peter.
Peter is not cast off.
Jesus allows Peter to reaffirm his love for the Messiah.
Peter is redirected – feed My lambs, take care of My sheep, feed My Sheep.
But most of all – Jesus’ final instruction to Peter, “Follow Me.”
An Invitation to Grace
No failure is final when it meets the forgiveness of Jesus.
We all have a little “Peter” in us. We have blown it at times.
Jesus offers the same grace to us as He gave to Peter.
Timeless Truth
Peter initially hid in shame after his mistakes but eventually chose to repent and come back to the Lord—follow his example. Bring your failures to Jesus. When He asks, “Do you love Me?” it isn’t because He doesn’t know, but because He wants you to reaffirm your love and experience His forgiveness. As you reply, “Yes, Lord, You know I love You,” He gladly welcomes you back. Because Christ died and rose again, it is grace, not your sin, that has the final word. Then take hold of the new purpose Jesus gives. His forgiveness isn’t the end—He restores us for service. He entrusts us with meaningful roles both now and in His Kingdom. As YHWH transformed Peter into a leader of the Church, He can do the same for you. The call to “feed His sheep” invites you to love others, share the gospel, or serve in your church or community.
Living Lesson
Maybe you’ve failed too. Maybe you’ve denied Jesus—not with your words, but with your silence, your compromise, or your choices. The good news? Jesus hasn’t given up on you. He’s not asking, “Why did you fail?” He’s asking, “Do you love Me?” If your answer is yes—even through tears—He says, “Then follow Me. I still have work for you to do.” Your failure is not final. Grace restores. And Jesus still calls your name.