1. 2 Peter 1:9-11 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; 11 for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

2. Spiritual Growth is a Choice

3. Introduction “Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4).

5. Spiritual Growth is a Choice Commanded by God Matthew 28:18-20 2 Peter 3:18 2 Peter 1:5-8 Hebrews 5:12-6:1

6. Spiritual Growth is a Choice that Requires Diligent Effort John 6:27 Philippians 2:12 Philippians 3:13-14 2 Peter 1:10 1 Timothy 4:7-8 Spiritual growth is not easy. We must work at it Today, Tomorrow & Always

7. Spiritual Growth is a Choice that is Assisted by God We are not alone in our efforts. Philippians 2:12-13 Philippians 1:6 Ephesians 3:16 Ephesians 3:20 Ephesians 6:10-11 Philippians 4:13

8. Spiritual Growth is a Choice that is Blessed by God The blessings begin in this life 2 Peter 3:18 Romans 5:1-2 2 Peter 1:10 John 10:10 2 Peter 1:11

9. Conclusion: The hearts of some grow dull (Mt 13:15) The love of many grow cold (Mt 24:12) There is the danger of growing weary in doing good (Gal 6:9; 2 Thess. 3:13) There is possibility of growing corrupt according to deceitful lusts (Eph 4:22) There are those who grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived (2 Tim 3:13)

10. We have been talking about spiritual growth, the kind of growth that is… – Commanded by God – Requires diligent effort – Assisted by God – Blessed by God What kind of growth is taking place in our spiritual lives?

11. “Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4).