Lesson 22

Second Peter

Warning against dangers facing the Church

Review:

#2 The character or nature of the things in the world (v. 16).

John details the components of the world that we as believers are not to love. Points out for us the contrast with what our lives should be as believers.

The following three phrases are an unfolding of the character of these things: the mindset of the world.

"the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world."

The first component is the "the lust of the flesh."

"The lust of the flesh" denotes what?

The second component is the "the lust of the eyes."

This has to do with desire for things that we see, things which catch our eye. The emphasis is on external attractiveness without examination of the underlying values.

"The lust of the eyes" then is associated with what?

The third component is the "The boastful pride of life"

It is the arrogant attitude by which people think more highly of themselves than they ought. It is the ambition to center one's life around self rather than God.

Having set forth the nature of "all that is in the world," John concludes his sentence with a double assertion concerning the source of this moral depravity: doesn't want anyone to miss it!

"is not of (ek) the Father, but is of (ek) the world"

#3. The contrasted ends (v.17).

On the one hand is the transitory nature of the world: "And the world is passing away, and also its lusts;"

Over against the transitory nature of the world stands the abiding life of the true believer: "but the one who does the will of God abides forever."

The abiding life of fellowship with God/F and Christ gives us the assurance of permanence even amid the present scene of change and decay that surrounds us.

The nature of this world view or mindset, the wisdom of man is seen in Jas. 3:13-17 [rabbit trail]

James 3:15 The character of the wisdom noted in VS:14

This section contrasts heavenly and earthly wisdom (sofia).

Have 3 characteristics of this wisdom that is not from above.

1. earthly = evpi,geioj(

2. natural = yuciko,j

3. demonic = diamoniwdhj

Summary Observations James 3:15

1. There is a clear distinction drawn in scripture between the wisdom of this world, the kosmos, and the wisdom of God. 1 Cor 1-2

2. This wisdom produces a line of thought, a mindset and a conduct which maintains the alienation of the UB'r from God. 2 Cor 4:3-4

3. The believer who chooses to operate with this mindset is alienated from God. no fellowship.

4. The term earthly stamps this wisdom as that which man possesses by natural birth and inclination.

5. Because it is earth-bound wisdom, under it man will never achieve a life of true peace and contentment. (world mindset, attempts to deceive man into thinking that under his system they will)

6. That its soulish relates it to the soul being ruled by the indwelling sin nature.

7. Such wisdom produces distorted concepts, desires and aspirations.

Seen in the examples given that demonstrate this wisdom is present in vs:14 & 16

8. Such wisdom is also demonic in that it mirrors the vpt of demons, who operate on the marching orders and vpt of Satan.

9. Satan has road blocks at every stage of the Christian life.