The Christian Characteristics - Virtue
2 Peter 1:5-11

Introduction:

  1. Peter in this passage reminds us we must grow in our service to God.
  2. Eight areas for growth listed here.
  3. In this lesson we will look at virtue

Discussion:

I. What Is virtue?

  1. Webster defines as
    1. conformity to a standard of right
    2. a particular moral excellence
    3. a beneficial quality or power of a thing
    4. manly strength or courage
  2. BDB/Thayer defines as
    1. 703 arete AV - virtue 4, praise 1; 5
    2. a virtuous course of thought, feeling and action; virtue, moral goodness
    3. any particular moral excellence, as modesty, purity
  3. Bible defines as (Naves Topical Bible)
    1. Power - Luke 6:19; 8:46
    2. Excellence - Phil 4:8; 2Pet 1:5
  4. A practical definition would be
    1. The moral excellence that is demanded by the Word of God. We must be upright in all things
    2. Might also include the qualities that make us stand for right in face of opposition and would therefore include courage.
  5. Virtue takes courage
    1. English virtue from Latin virtus meaning manhood so manliness
      1. Makes us act like men 1Cor 16:13
      2. Be no more children 1Cor 14:20; Eph 4:14
    2. Jesus our example 1Pet 2:21; Phil 2:5-11
      1. Note difference between standards
      God's tiny.gif Man's
      1. no reputation
      2. servant
      3. humble
      4. obey
      		tiny.gif
      1. gain reputation
      2. master
      3. exalt self
      4. demand of others

II. Why do we need virtue?

  1. In our relationship with God
    1. God is Holy 1Pet 1:15,16
    2. He expects us to live righteously Titus 2:12
      1. Fear God Mt 10:28
      2. Confess Christ daily Mt 10:32-33
  2. In our own lives
    1. Only a righteous life will lead to Heaven Prov 14:34
    2. Resist temptation 1Pet 5:8-9
    3. Virtue is an asset in our business life
  3. In our relationship with our brethren
    1. We will be able to depend on others for support
    2. We will be an example for others to follow 1Cor 11:1
    3. We will rebuke sin from Scriptures Eph 5:11; Lk 17:3
  4. In our relationship with alien sinners
    1. They will respect us for our stand 1Pet 2:12
    2. We could lead someone to Christ 1Pet 3:1,16
    3. We will be able to give a reason for our hope 1Pet 3:15

III. How do we get or develop virtue?

  1. Trusting in God
    1. God will supply us with all we need Mt 5:6
    2. Study of God's word will guide us in righteousness Jhn 16:7-13; Rom 1:16-17
  2. Examples
    1. Moses before Pharaoh Ex 7-12
    2. Nathan before David 2Sam 12:1-7
    3. Elijah before Ahab 1Kings 18:17-18,21
    4. Three Hebrews Dan 3:17-18
  3. NT examples
    1. John baptizer before Herod Mt 14
    2. Peter and John Acts 4:19-20; 5:29
    3. Paul
      1. Going to Jerusalem Acts 21:10-14
      2. Stoned at Lystra Acts 14:19
      3. Jailed at Philippi Acts 16:19-25
      4. Before Agrippa Acts 26

IV. What is the result of strengthening our virtue?

  1. In the physical realm
    1. We will be respected in our jobs
    2. We will prosper
  2. In the spiritual realm
    1. We will be able to withstand Satan 1Cor 10:13
    2. We will lead others to Christ 1Pet 3:1
    3. We will live upright lives 2Tim 3:12
  3. In our dealing with others
    1. Virtue (uprightness) brings respect even from enemies
    2. Virtue will cause us to do what is right no matter the cost Rev 2:10
    3. We Will contend for the faith Jude 3

Conclusion:

  1. What about you?
  2. How strong is your virtue? Phil 1:27-28
  3. What changes do you need to make now to begin growing as you should?
  4. Invitation to the lost.