Scripture: 2 Peter 1:10-14
Many of us don’t respond well when someone tells us about something that we already know. We might respond with, “Yes [insert person here], you already told me that a thousand times. I will do it soon!” In these verses Peter tells us that is exactly what he is doing. Here are 4 reasons that he gives why it’s important to be reminded about your faith.
Number 1 – Proof of your Salvation (v.10a). Salvation is a free gift from God (Eph. 2:8). It is a result of grace through faith alone in Jesus Christ apart from anything that you do (Eph. 2:9). However, God has saved you for a purpose – for good works (Eph. 2:10). Those good works that you do will help you prove (often most importantly to yourself) that you are saved. It is easy to forget that calling and slip into ordinary living. When we are living like we are apart from God is easy to feel like we are apart from God. It is good to be reminded that God has called Christians to live a life that is different so that we can be different and be confident that we are a Christian.
Number 2 – Secure your Fellowship with God (v. 10b). Without being reminded about the importance of your faith, it is possible that you could fall away. Accountability is essential to accomplish a difficult task. The person that reminds you about the importance of your faith is helping you keep on track. We need someone to remind us about the promises of God, especially 1 John 1:9 when we mess up. If we don’t get our fellowship with God right and confess our sins so that he can forgive our sins, we will feel far away from God.
Number 3 – Prepare for your Entrance to Heaven (v. 11). Christians are not judged for their sin, but they will be rewarded in heaven for what they did for the Lord (2 Cor. 5:10). When we get to heaven it will be awesome to meet Jesus and have Him celebrate what you did for Him in the lives of so many others. It’s easy to fall into a mindset where the cares of this life control you. We need to be reminded that we must live with eternity in view.
Number 4 – It’s Someone’s Job to Remind You (v. 12). If Jesus personally tells you to do something, you should do it! This is what Peter is doing when he reminds his readers about their faith. In Luke 22:32, Jesus tells Peter to “strengthen your brothers.” Here in 1 Peter 2:12 Peter tells his readers to “stand firm.” Who does God want you to help “stand firm?” Everyone needs someone to remind them about the importance of their faith. Don’t be upset when people remind you, and play your part to remind others.
