Partakers of the Divine Nature

Introduction

A. Common expression: “That’s human nature, according to nature,” etc.

The natural (commonplace) thing to do.

B. Some have devilish nature. Eph. 2:3; Jno. 8:44.

C. But there’s a higher “divine nature” - 2 Peter 1:1-4

1. Escaped corruption. vs. 4

2. Design of promises. vs. 4

3. Adequate provisions. vs. 3

D. In creation, body came from earth. - Gen. 2:7; 3:19; 1 Cor. 15:47

but spirit came from God. Zech 12:1; Eccl. 12:7; Heb. 12:9

E. “Divine nature” in a sense is universally possessed; but “divine nature” of 2 Peter

1:4 is conditional.

I. What Christianity does.

A. The great work is to make men like Christ - Christ like.

B. To help men escape the corruption of sin.

C. The glory and excellence of God is our calling.

D. We must have “divine nature” to enjoy divine society.

E. Christianity changes the nature of a person; fitting him for the society of saints

and the joys of heaven.

F. But still has human nature: can choose good or evil.

II. Theory and Practice. - 2 Pet. 1:5-11.

A. Is the concept practical - will it work?

B. Example: “Love enemies” - Mt. 5:44

1. Contrary to human nature (usual custom) - Mt 5:43

2. But not contrary to divine nature – Mt 5:44-45; Jn 3:16; Rom 5:8; Luke 23:34; Acts 7:59-60; 2 Tim 4:16.

III. Some Items of Divine Nature.

A. Forgiveness. - Dan. 9:9; Ps 86:5.

1. Demonstrated by Jesus. Isa. 53:11-12; Lk 23:34.

2. We must forgive. Eph. 4:32; Mt. 6:14-15.

3. Human to err, but divine to forgive.

B. Holiness.

1. Ps. 145:17. All the moral principles of God’s nature.

2. God cannot sin – Titus 1:2; James 1:13

3. Be holy yourselves - 1 Peter 1:14-15

4. God chastens us that we might partake. - Heb. 12:10.

5. Cannot see - “enjoy” Lord otherwise. - Heb. 12:14.

6. Christians created in righteousness - Eph. 4:24

7. Be holy in conduct - 2 Pet. 3:11.

C. Longsuffering (Patience). - Ps. 86:15; Rom 2:4

1. Punishment deferred because of God’s patience - 1 Pet. 3:20; 2 Pet. 3:9

2. Enjoined upon all – Eph 4:1-2; Gal 5:22; 1 Tim 5:22

D. Mercy.

1. A divine characteristic - Ps 103:17; Eph. 2:4

2. Taught by precept and example – Lk 6:36-38; Mt. 5:7; Lk. 10:30-37.

3. Mercy consistent with justice. - Jas. 2:12-13

Conclusion: Are you a partaker?

1. Consequences of “corrupt nature” are terrible.

2. “Divine nature” brings untold blessings.

#divinenature