Virtuous Faith
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Introduction
Introduction
In 2 Peter 1:5, Peter tells us to add virtue to our faith.
That word is variously translated in your Bibles which we will discuss further as we go along.
What is virtue, how does it relate to faith, and how do we pursue it in our lives?
Defining Virtue
Defining Virtue
This word shows up only a few times in the New Testament (1 Pet. 2:9; 2 Pet. 1:3, 5; Phil. 4:8).
The New Testament usages echo Isaiah (Isa. 42:12; 43:21; 63:7).
It carries the idea of “full realization” of function or purpose (2 Mac. 15:17).
There is much debate over how to translate this word both in and outside of the Bible.
One translator strongly argues for valor.
We see this most clearly in the concept of virtuoso.
“a person who has special knowledge or skill in a field.”
We will think more about this aspect later in the lesson.
God is the ultimate in “realizing full potential.”
Supplying Virtue
Supplying Virtue
We are adding excellence to our faith (2 Pet. 1:5).
Notice the words diligence and supply.
Diligence carries a sense of urgency and resolve.
The word for supply is a word that comes from the picture of a patron providing a chorus for festivals. These were lavish affairs generally put on by the town and the patrons who supplied the chorus along with other additions did so at great personal cost. “Thus the word came to mean generous and costly co-operation.”
This diligence is required to realize our hope (Heb. 6:11-12).
What are you willing to do to pursue excellence in your faith (1 Cor. 9:27)?
Trained Senses
Trained Senses
What does excellence in faith look like (cf. Heb. 5:12-6:2)?
Have you ever thought about getting good at something?
What hindered you?
Did you think, I just don’t have the talent (lie).
Or did you think, I am not willing to be that dedicated (resignation).
We can learn from the effort people put into other pursuits (1 Cor. 9:24-27).
The 10,000 hour rule (Outliers by Malcom Gladwell)
The athletes that you think are super human generally speaking, just put in more hours.
Arriving at a degree of excellence only means you can more clearly see room for improvement (Heb. 12:1).
Golfers make tiny adjustments to their clubs.
Cyclists make microscopic adjustments to the weight or drag on their bikes.
Conclusion
Conclusion
You are not called to a life walking away from effort and responsibility.
You are called to a life that makes those things worth while. A life with purpose.
Enter the race today.