2 Peter 1:4 Meaning
Point Two: For What Purpose Do We Have These Gifts?
Partakers of the Divine Nature
Peter writes, “So that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire” (2 Peter 1:4). This statement naturally raises the question: What does it mean to be partakers of the divine nature?
It is crucial to clarify what this does not mean. It does not suggest that we become deified or transformed into “little gods.” God’s divine essence cannot be divided or communicated to finite beings. Attributes unique to God, such as eternity and omnipotence, remain His alone.
Instead, Peter refers to a participation that is analogical, not ontological. We partake of the divine nature by regeneration, which impresses God’s holiness and righteousness upon us. Through the work of the Spirit, we begin to reflect Christ’s character. This is not a deification but a restoration of the image of God within us.
Escaping Worldly Corruption
Peter contrasts partaking of the divine nature with escaping the corruption of the world caused by sinful desires. Before regeneration, we were enslaved to sin, ignorant of saving knowledge, and spiritually dead. Through God’s divine power, we are renewed in holiness, righteousness, and knowledge, reflecting the image of God as it was intended.
This transformation is not a return to deity but a restoration of our original purpose as image-bearers of God. While this restoration is partial in this life, it will be complete in glory. As John Calvin aptly observed, “The end of the Gospel is to render us conformable to God.”
The Ultimate Purpose
Why are we given all that pertains to life and godliness? Ultimately, it is for God’s glory and our eternal happiness. These gifts will culminate in the second coming of Christ when believers are glorified, enjoying immortality and perfect fellowship with God.
The Powerful Effects of the Gospel
Enabled for Godliness
The Gospel enables us to deny ungodliness, flee unrighteousness, and grow in Christlikeness. It equips us to obey God’s commandments and love what He loves. With renewed hearts, we are no longer enslaved to sin but empowered to live for Him. Partaking of the divine nature means becoming more like Christ in our character and actions.
A Call to Holiness
If we partake of the divine nature, we must labor diligently to avoid anything that hinders our sanctification. This effort, however, remains dependent on God’s grace. He sustains and multiplies the grace and peace necessary for our growth, ensuring that His work in us continues.
Treasuring God’s Promises
Peter reminds us that God’s precious and very great promises are the means through which we partake of the divine nature. These promises, freely given, enable us to grow in holiness and experience God’s blessings. We should treasure them, seeking to know and apply them as one would pursue hidden treasure. The more we immerse ourselves in God’s promises, the more we are weaned from worldly desires and conformed to Christ’s image.
A Warning and an Invitation
The Danger for Unbelievers
Unbelievers lack the new nature in Christ and remain enslaved to worldly corruption. False teachers, who do not belong to Christ, also lack conformity to His image. Their end, if unrepentant, is swift destruction when Christ returns. The unbeliever must recognize that life and godliness are found only in Christ.
A Message of Hope
Yet, there is hope. As long as life remains, the opportunity for repentance and faith is open. Scripture promises that those who come to Christ in faith and repentance will not be cast out. Run to Jesus, not merely to escape punishment or gain heaven, but because true happiness, now and forever, is found in Him.
Living as Partakers of the Divine Nature
For believers, partaking of the divine nature means ongoing transformation. We are called to put off the old self, grow in Christlikeness, and glorify God in all we do. This transformation is entirely the work of God, who has graciously given us all we need in Christ.
Assurance in God’s Promises
Believers can rest in the completed work of Christ. The ransom has been paid, the penalty for sin has been served, and righteousness has been imputed to us. God has promised that these blessings will never be taken away. This assurance should lead us to worship, serve, and honor Him with grateful hearts.
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