2 Peter 3:18 – “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”

ABSTRACT

This article examines the profound impact of the gospel on personal transformation, highlighting themes of grace, regeneration, character building, and duties toward God and fellow humans. It integrates biblical teachings and insights from Ellen G. White to demonstrate how spiritual advancement mirrors God’s love and culminates in eternal assurances. “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18, KJV).

GOSPEL POWER UNLEASHED!

Paul’s experience highlights the essence of the gospel. Romans 1:16 declares, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” The gospel’s power is not just theoretical; it brings radical change, redeeming the sinner and shaping the saint. It represents a divine invitation to transformation, providing a new identity rooted in faith. Ellen G. White writes, “In His teachings He dwelt upon the unchangeable principles of God’s word. He magnified the simple, practical truths that the common people could understand and bring into the daily experience” (Vol. 8, p. 201). The Bible also teaches this through 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” Ephesians 2:8-9 states: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Sr. White elaborates: “By the power of His grace manifested in the transformation of character the world is to be convinced that God has sent His Son as its Redeemer. No other influence that can surround the human soul has such power as the influence of an unselfish life” (Ministry of Healing, p. 470, 1905). She further notes: “The gospel we present for the saving of souls must be the gospel by which our own souls are saved. Only through a living faith in Christ as a personal Saviour is it possible to make our influence felt in a skeptical world” (Ministry of Healing, p. 469, 1905). My life once reflected arrogance, pride, and recklessness, but the gospel’s transforming power softened my heart and gave me peace. Sharing this transformation with friends and family often led to rejection, but it strengthened my relationship with Christ and deepened my reliance on His promises. But how does grace and peace multiply as we draw closer to Christ?

GRACE MULTIPLIED MARVELS!

Grace and peace multiply as we draw closer to Christ. Second Peter 1:2 offers encouragement, saying, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord.” This multiplication of grace implies a continuous and growing experience, where each step toward understanding God reveals deeper layers of His mercy and guidance. Sr. White affirms, “The experimental knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He has sent, transforms man into the image of God. It gives to man the mastery of himself, bringing every impulse and passion of the lower nature under the control of the higher powers of the mind” (C.O.L., p. 114). She adds that this transformation opens believers to the “rich treasures of the universe” as they grow spiritually. Scripture further illuminates this truth with Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Titus 2:11 declares: “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.” Sr. White explains: “Grace is an attribute of God shown to undeserving human beings. We did not seek after it, but it was sent in search of us. God rejoices to bestow this grace upon every one who hungers for it. To every one He presents terms of mercy, not because we are worthy, but because we are so utterly unworthy. Our need is the qualification which gives us the assurance that we shall receive this gift” (The Review and Herald, July 14, p. 1, 1891). She also states: “His grace makes it possible for us to draw nigh to Him by faith. By receiving it, and letting it work in our lives, we testify to the validity of the law; we exalt the law and make it honorable by carrying out its living principles through the power of the grace of Christ; and by rendering pure, whole-hearted obedience to God’s law, we witness before the universe of heaven, and before an apostate world that is making void the law of God, to the power of redemption” (The Review and Herald, September 15, p. 1, 1896). During my struggles, such as health issues and financial burdens, God’s promises brought reassurance that my circumstances were opportunities to lean on Him and discover His sustaining peace. Through regeneration, how do believers partake in the divine nature?

DIVINE NATURE AWAKENS!

Through regeneration, believers partake in the divine nature. Second Peter 1:4 explains that we are made “partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world through lust.” Regeneration represents a renewal—not just outward change, but an inward transformation that aligns our desires and actions with God’s character. Sr. White describes this process as mastering impulses and passions by bringing them under the “higher powers of the mind” (Christ Object Lessons., p. 114). She also states, “When the soul surrenders itself to Christ, a new power takes possession of the new heart. A change is wrought which man can never accomplish for himself. It is a supernatural work, bringing a supernatural element into human nature” (Desire of Ages, p. 324). The Bible also teaches this through Titus 3:5: “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.” Ezekiel 36:26 states: “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.” Sr. White elaborates: “The new birth consists in having new motives, new tastes, new tendencies. Those who are begotten unto a new life by the Holy Spirit, have become partakers of the divine nature, and in all their habits and practices they will give evidence of their relationship to Christ. When men who claim to be Christians retain all their natural defects of character and disposition, in what does their position differ from that of the worldling? They do not appreciate the truth as a sanctifier, a refiner. They have not been born again” (The Review and Herald, April 12, p. 1, 1892). She further notes: “True conversion is a change from selfishness to sanctified affection for God and for one another” (Selected Messages Vol. 1, p. 365, 1958). This regeneration manifested in overcoming habits and unhealthy behaviors. These changes reflected the Holy Spirit’s work, reminding me that God cares about every detail of our growth. But how does character development involve climbing the spiritual ladder?

CHARACTER QUEST COMMENCES!

Character development involves climbing the spiritual ladder outlined in 2 Peter 1:5-7: “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.” Each step on this ladder represents growth in grace, teaching us to build upon foundational faith through disciplined habits and Christlike behavior. Sr. White describes this progression as “ascending step by step, to the height of Christ’s ideal for us” (Vol. 2, p. 145). She adds, “Sanctification is not the work of a moment, an hour, or a day. It is a continual growth in grace. We know not one day how strong will be our conflict the next” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 340). The Bible also teaches this through Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Romans 5:3-4 states: “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And experience, hope.” Sr. White explains: “The life of the Christian is a life of constant conflict. It is a self-discipline, a battle with the powers of darkness, a struggle with the principalities and powers of evil. It requires continual watchfulness, unceasing prayer, and the exercise of faith” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 5, p. 231, 1885). She further notes: “Character is power. The silent witness of a true, unselfish, godly life carries an almost irresistible influence. By revealing in our own life the character of Christ we co-operate with Him in the work of saving souls” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 340, 1900). For me, patience has been the most challenging rung on this ladder. However, moments of prayer and surrender have shown me that God’s strength can replace my weaknesses, transforming my relationships and teaching me humility. How does cultivating these graces yield powerful results?

SPIRITUAL FRUITS FLOURISH!

Cultivating these graces yields powerful results. Second Peter 1:8 promises that “if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Spiritual fruitfulness does not happen overnight but grows through consistent faith and perseverance. Sr. White celebrates the grace of God as “more valuable than fine gold. It elevates and ennobles the spirit beyond all other principles, and sets the affections upon Heaven” (Vol. 2, p. 145). She encourages believers to cultivate these qualities diligently, recognizing that neglect leads to blindness and stagnation. The Bible also teaches this through John 15:5: “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” Galatians 5:22-23 states: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Sr. White elaborates: “The fruit borne upon the Christian tree shows the nature of the growth, for evil trees can bring forth only evil fruit. By their fruits ye shall know them” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 5, p. 113, 1882). She further notes: “The Spirit of God produces a new life in the soul, bringing the thoughts and desires into obedience to the will of Christ; and the inward man is renewed in the image of God” (Prophets and Kings, p. 233, 1917). When I have neglected spiritual growth, I experienced a sense of emptiness, anxiety, and discouragement. Reconnecting with God through prayer and Scripture restored my joy and focus, proving the truth of these promises. How do the concepts discussed ultimately reflect God’s love through spiritual growth?

GOD’S LOVE ILLUMINATES!

The concepts discussed ultimately reflect God’s love by revealing His desire to transform and restore humanity. The Bible declares, “God is love” (1 John 4:8), and this love is demonstrated through His provision of grace, regeneration, and character growth. Sr. White affirms, “It is the first and highest duty of every rational being to learn from the Scriptures what is truth, and then to walk in the light and encourage others to follow his example” (Great Controversy, p. 598). God’s love is evident in how He patiently leads us step-by-step, providing everything needed for spiritual growth. For instance, 2 Peter 1:3 reminds us that God “hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness.” This truth reassures us that no aspect of our development is overlooked. Scripture further supports this idea with John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Romans 5:8 states: “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Sr. White explains: “The love of God is something more than a mere negation; it is a positive and active principle, a living spring, ever flowing to bless others” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 58, 1896). She further notes: “The love of Christ constrains us to unite with Him in His labors and sacrifice for the salvation of men” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 3, p. 396, 1875). In my journey, I have experienced God’s love through His forgiveness, provision, and guidance, proving that His desire is to see each believer thrive spiritually. This love motivates us to grow in grace, develop Christlike character, and reflect His nature to the world. How do the concepts of grace, regeneration, and character development emphasize our responsibility to respond to God’s love with obedience and dedication?

The concepts of grace, regeneration, and character development emphasize our responsibility to respond to God’s love with obedience and dedication. Romans 12:1 urges, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Sr. White writes, “To love Him, to obey His commandments, is the first duty of every rational being” (Steps to Christ, p. 19). We are called to seek holiness, reflecting God’s character in our actions, thoughts, and words. God has equipped us with divine promises and spiritual resources, as 2 Peter 1:3 reminds us: “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness.” This provision eliminates excuses and calls us to diligence in pursuing Christlike qualities. The Bible also teaches this through Deuteronomy 6:5: “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” Micah 6:8 states: “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Sr. White elaborates: “Obedience to God is the highest evidence of our love for Him” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 2, p. 145, 1871). She further notes: “True obedience is the outworking of a principle within. It springs from the love of righteousness, the love of the law of God. The essence of all righteousness is loyalty to our Redeemer” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 97, 1900). My personal experience has shown that dedicating time to prayer, study, and service strengthens faith and aligns my will with God’s purposes. Our responsibility is to live in obedience, reflecting His love, and sharing His truth so others may also grow in grace. How do the principles of grace and character development not only reflect God’s love but also reveal our responsibility to love and serve our neighbors?

The principles of grace and character development not only reflect God’s love but also reveal our responsibility to love and serve our neighbors. Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” Sr. White elaborates, “Christ’s love is so broad, so full of glory, that it covers the whole world. Every soul is precious in His sight” (Steps to Christ, p. 100). Serving our neighbors means reflecting Christ’s love through acts of kindness, patience, and forgiveness. We are called to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) and demonstrate practical care in meeting physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. The Bible also teaches this through Leviticus 19:18: “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord.” Matthew 22:39 states: “And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Sr. White explains: “Our neighbors are the whole human family. We are to do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. We are to give to the world an exhibition of what it means to carry out the law of God” (The Review and Herald, January 1, p. 1, 1895). She further notes: “We greatly need consecrated women, who, as messengers of mercy, will visit the mothers and the children in their homes” (Welfare Ministry, p. 146, 1952). My personal journey has shown me that sharing the gospel, helping those in need, and praying for others not only strengthens relationships but also reflects the selfless love of Christ. In fulfilling these responsibilities, we become living testimonies of God’s transformative grace. How does adding grace to grace lead to a blessed promise?

FAITHFUL PROMISE REVEALED!

Adding grace to grace leads to a blessed promise. Second Peter 1:10 assures believers that growing in these virtues ensures they “shall never fall.” Sr. White reinforces this by encouraging us to “converse with God and contemplate things above, transform the soul into the likeness of Christ” (Vol. 2, p. 145). This reflection highlights our security in God’s promises, even amid trials and temptations. The Bible also teaches this through Hebrews 13:5: “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Psalm 37:25 states: “I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” Sr. White elaborates: “God has promised that He will never leave nor forsake those who put their trust in Him” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 6, p. 282, 1901). She further notes: “Those who put their trust in Him will find Him a very present help in time of trouble” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 129, 1890). My experiences with God’s sustaining power have taught me that He often changes my perspective rather than my circumstances. Learning to trust Him in financial and emotional struggles has strengthened my faith and enabled me to forgive those who hurt me, bringing healing and peace. How does the foundation of spiritual growth lie in confessing and forgiving?

CONFESSION HEALS HEARTS!

The foundation of spiritual growth lies in confessing and forgiving, which allows grace to flow freely among us. Sr. White writes, “The love and grace of God! Oh, precious grace! more valuable than fine gold. It elevates and ennobles the spirit beyond all other principles, and sets the affections upon Heaven” (Vol. 2, p. 145). Just as Christ forgave freely, we are urged to extend the same mercy to others. The Bible also teaches this through 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Matthew 6:14 states: “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Sr. White elaborates: “We must learn in the school of Christ. Nothing but His righteousness can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. We have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings, but have not received them because we have cherished the idea that we could do something to make ourselves worthy of them. We have not looked away from ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living Saviour” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 5, p. 742, 1889). She further notes: “Confession will not be acceptable to God without sincere repentance and reformation. There must be decided changes in the life; everything offensive to God must be put away” (Steps to Christ, p. 39, 1892). Through this continual cycle of confession, forgiveness, and growth, we not only build our character but also strengthen the bonds within our faith communities.

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