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Developing Spiritual Strength. Introduction. False teachers prey upon those who are unsettled and unstable, weak and vacillating (2 Peter 2:14; 3:16). In contrast, faithful disciples demonstrate a resolute commitment to Christ and His Word. Relevant Words & Meanings.
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Introduction • False teachers prey upon those who are unsettled and unstable, weak and vacillating (2 Peter 2:14; 3:16). • In contrast, faithful disciples demonstrate a resolute commitment to Christ and His Word.
Relevant Words & Meanings • The Greek word stērizō refers to a “support” or a “prop,” thus means “to make fast” or “establish” [4741]. • BDAG say it means “(1) to fix firmly in a place, set up, establish, support; (2) to cause to be inwardly firm or committed, confirm, establish, strengthen, fig. ext. of 1.”
Relevant Words & Meanings • Among related words of note, one is the Greek word stērigmos, which Thomas defines as “a setting firmly, steadfastness” [4740]. • The other is epistērizō, an intensification of stērigmos, which Thomas defines as “to make stronger” [1991].
Developing Spiritual Strength • Rooted in Proclamation(Acts 15:30-32; Rom. 1:11-12; 1:16-17; 16:25-27; 2 Pet. 1:12-15; 3:15-18; 2 Tim. 4:1-5). • Rooted in Practice(1 Thess. 3:11-13; 2 Thess. 2:16-17; Rev. 3:1-3; James 1:23-25)
Developing Spiritual Strength • Rooted in Patience(Acts 14:21-22; 1 Thess. 3:1-3; James 5:7-11; 1 Pet. 5:8-10) • Rooted in Providence(2 Pet. 1:2-11; 2 Thess. 3:1-3; 2 Pet. 2:7-9; 1 Cor. 10:13; Isa. 41:5-16; Rom. 8:31-39)
Conclusion • From a Biblical standpoint, spiritual growth is an imperative (1 Pet. 2:1-3; 2 Pet. 3:17-18). • The seed of the gospel still has potency (Luke 8:11; Heb. 4:12). • By speaking the truth in love, let us grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ (Eph. 4:15).