1. The Mainstay of Spiritual Growth
Endurance
The Mainstay of Spiritual Growth

2. Endurance is to define us
The Hebrews needed to endure to receive what was promised (Hebrews 10:36)
Peter says that endurance (“steadfastness”) will keep us from being ineffective in the Lord’s kingdom (2 Peter 1:5-8)
Endurance is the example set for us (Hebrews 12:1-3)

3. Understanding the need for endurance
Spiritual growth takes time (Hebrews 5:12)
To move from milk to solid food (Hebrews 5:13-14)
To rightly handle the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15)
To develop the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and the supplements to faith (2 Peter 1:5-8)

4. Understanding the need for endurance
Spiritual growth takes time (Hebrews 5:12)
Spiritual growth requires repetition (cf. 2 Corinthians 9:6)
To overcome mistakes (John 18:10John 18:17, 25, 27John 21:15-191 & 2 Peter)
To hone our skills (Ephesians 5:10 [KJV]; 1 Timothy 4:7)

5. Understanding the need for endurance
Spiritual growth takes time (Hebrews 5:12)
Spiritual growth requires repetition (cf. 2 Corinthians 9:6)
Without endurance, there is regression (1 Timothy 4:7)
The Hebrews had regressed to an unlearned state (Hebrews 5:12)
This is a very dangerous state to be in (2 Peter 2:20-22)

6. Maintaining endurance
Practice self control daily (2 Peter 1:6)
Establish the habit of prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Establish the habit of Scripture reading (Acts 17:11)

7. Maintaining endurance
Practice self-control daily (2 Peter 1:6)
Associate with like-minded people
We desire to be with those who do not draw back (Hebrews 10:36-39)
Who exhort us daily (Hebrews 3:12)
Who stir us up to love and good works, encouraging us (Hebrews 10:25-26)

8. Maintaining endurance
Practice self control daily (2 Peter 1:6)
Associate with like minded people
Keep your eye on the prize
This allowed Christ to endure (Hebrews 12:2)
This is what Paul did and encourages us to do (Philippians 3:12-15)