5 Growing in: Defence of grace (part II)

The 'grow in grace' picture of 2 Peter 3:18 is one of persistent growth. It is a tragedy to be spiritually stunted and immature. It is also a picture of uniform growth as believers grow in every Christian grace at the same time, with no glaring omissions. It should never be said of anyone, 'He is a good Christian man and has grown in knowledge, but no in conquering the world in his life.' Or, 'She is a fine Christian woman, believing in Calvary and trusting the Lord, but she knows so little about doctrine, and never reads anything.'

Another person may have a pleasing manner and a good knowledge of doctrine, but you would never catch him engaged in witness of Christian service, or working with fellow believers in the great mission of Jesus Christ. What a disaster it is to be lopsided in growth.

We should all want to grow uniformly in all respects, becoming like a great tree, stable, hospitable, beautiful, fruitful and drawing life from great depths.

Growth in grace is to grow in dependence upon grace, in the application of grace, in the exercising of privileges of grace, in the proclamation of grace, and the defence of grace.

by Peter Masters