Audio Sermons

Reflecting Christ, Redeeming the Time
The Results of Growing in Christlikeness
Life B-P Church Worship Service, 13th September 2026
Text: 2 Peter 1:8-11

• God has given us the resources for growth (vv.1–4).
• But we must diligently follow the recipe for growth (vv.5-7).
• Then we will be able to enjoy the results of our growth (vv.8-11).

1.    Growing in Christlikeness Results in Fruitfulness (vv.8–9)

• The presence of the eight characteristics of vv.5-7 ensures that we are neither barren nor unfruitful in our knowledge of Christ.
• True spiritual growth transforms our character, enabling us to reflect Christ effectively to a dark world.
• Stopping our growth leads to:
  • Spiritual Myopia (Short-sightedness): Unable to see beyond earthly concerns, and blind to things of eternal value.
  • Spiritual Amnesia: Unable to remember that our sins have been washed away, and reverting to our old sinful ways.
• Continual Increase: While we live, we can never reach an end-point of growth because of our constant struggle with sin.

2.    Growing in Christlikeness Results in Firm Assurance (v.10a)

• Many Christians long to know how they can be sure of their salvation. (Cf. 2 Timothy 3:5; Matthew 7:21-23)
• Service Motivated by Love: Assurance frees us from the fear of hell, to serve God out of genuine gratitude rather than self-interest.
• Making Our Calling and Election Sure: Diligence in spiritual growth confirms God’s saving work in our lives.
• Evidence, Not Merit: Good works do not earn salvation; they provide visible evidence of it. More evidence yields stronger assurance.

3.    Growing in Christlikeness Results in Faithfulness (v.10b)

• Preservation from Falling: Peter promises – “if ye do these things, ye shall never fall”.
• Defence Against Deception: Spiritual growth is a key defence against falling away like the false teachers did. (cf. Jude 24;)
• Discernment and Stability: Maturing in Christ protects us from being “unstable souls” carried away by false doctrines. (cf. 2 Peter 2:14; 2 Thessalonians 2:3)

4.    Growing in Christlikeness Results in Final Blessings (v.11)

• The Greatest Result: Being able to look forward to being blessed with a grand welcome into the everlasting kingdom of Jesus Christ.
• The Glorious Homecoming: Our heavenly welcome will be hosted by the King of kings, with an eternal inheritance and eternal rest from our labours.
• The Greatest Joy: Beholding our Saviour’s smile and hearing: “Well done, good and faithful servant…” (Matthew 25:21,23)

Conclusion & Response

• Examine your heart – 
  Ask God to show you the true state of your spiritual life.
• Commit yourself to spiritual growth – 
  Be diligent in cultivating Christlikeness driven by these four results: Fruitfulness, Firm Assurance, Faithfulness and Final Blessings.

Questions for Personal Reflection:

1. What kind of return is God receiving from His investment in your life?
2. Are you suffering from spiritual myopia or spiritual amnesia?
3. What is the true motivation behind your service to God?