Author: Pastor Page

Last week we learned about the role of Forgiveness to overcome Learned Helplessness from Joseph.

This week we are going to discover Learned Optimism in overcoming Learned Helplessness.

Learned Optimism is the direct opposite of Learned Helplessness

Learned optimism is a powerful tool for improving your mental and emotional well-being. By adopting a more optimistic explanatory style and challenging negative thoughts, you can:

• increase your resilience,
• improve your problem-solving abilities, and
• enhance your overall life satisfaction.

The practice of learned optimism encourages you to see setbacks as opportunities for growth and to approach life with a positive, hopeful mindset.

The Message

The story of Ruth is rich with moments that illustrate her learned optimism, faith, and perseverance.

Background:

The Book of Ruth is a story from the Hebrew Bible that centers on the themes of loyalty, faith, and redemption. It follows Ruth, a Moabite woman who, after the death of her husband, chooses to stay with her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi, rather than return to her own people. Ruth’s devotion to Naomi leads them back to Bethlehem, where Ruth works in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi. Boaz, impressed by Ruth’s loyalty and kindness, eventually marries her, ensuring the family’s lineage and providing for their future. The story ends with Ruth becoming the great-grandmother of King David, highlighting God’s providence and the inclusion of Gentiles in His plan.

More of Ruth’s Story

Ruth’s Decision to Stay with Naomi

Ruth 1:16-17: 

“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.’”

Cross-References:

Joshua 24:15: “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

• Ruth’s declaration mirrors the choice of the Israelites to serve the Lord, emphasizing the importance of choosing faith even in challenging circumstances.

Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

• Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi reflects the deep, selfless love and commitment described in this proverb.

Ruth’s Hard Work and Perseverance

Ruth 2:2-3: 

“And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, ‘Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor.’ Naomi said to her, ‘Go ahead, my daughter.’ So she went out, entered a field and began to glean behind the harvesters. As it turned out, she was working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelek.”

Cross-References:

Proverbs 31:17: “She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.”

• Ruth’s initiative and hard work are similar to the virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman, who is diligent and industrious.

Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

• Ruth’s perseverance in gleaning the fields is an embodiment of this New Testament principle, showing that consistent, faithful work yields a reward.

Ruth Finds Favor with Boaz

Ruth 2:10-12:

“At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She asked him, ‘Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me—a foreigner?’ Boaz replied, ‘I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband—how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.’”

Cross-References:

Psalm 91:4: “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”

• Boaz’s blessing to Ruth resonates with this psalm, as she has sought refuge under God’s wings, and God is beginning to provide for her.

Hebrews 6:10: “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”

• Boaz’s recognition of Ruth’s deeds and his prayer for her reward reflect the truth that God honors and remembers our acts of love and kindness.

Ruth’s Approach to Boaz for Redemption

Ruth 3:9-11: 

“‘Who are you?’ he asked. ‘I am your servant Ruth,’ she said. ‘Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family.’ ‘The Lord bless you, my daughter,’ he replied. ‘This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character.’”

Cross-References:

Ezekiel 16:8: “‘Later I passed by, and when I looked at you and saw that you were old enough for love, I spread the corner of my garment over you and covered your naked body. I gave you my solemn oath and entered into a covenant with you, declares the Sovereign Lord, and you became mine.’”

• Ruth’s request for Boaz to spread his garment over her is symbolic of protection and covenant, much like God’s covenant with Israel.

Proverbs 31:10-11: “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.”

• Boaz’s description of Ruth as a woman of noble character echoes the virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman, highlighting her worthiness.

Ruth’s Blessing and Inclusion in the Lineage of David

Ruth 4:13-17: 

“So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When he made love to her, the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. The women said to Naomi: ‘Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a guardian-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel! He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.’ Then Naomi took the child in her arms and cared for him. The women living there said, ‘Naomi has a son!’ And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.”

Cross-References:

Matthew 1:5-6: “Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of King David.”

• Ruth’s inclusion in the genealogy of David, and ultimately Jesus Christ, underscores her legacy of faith and learned optimism.

Psalm 37:4: “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

• Ruth’s story illustrates this promise, as her faithfulness and optimism led to God fulfilling the desires of her heart.

Conclusion

Ruth’s story is a profound example of learned optimism, as she faced significant challenges with faith, loyalty, and perseverance. These key scriptures, along with their cross-references, demonstrate how

• Ruth’s positive actions and trust in God led to blessings that extended far beyond her lifetime,
• including her role in the lineage of King David and Jesus Christ.
• Ruth’s life encourages us to remain faithful and optimistic, trusting that God is working through our circumstances for a greater purpose.

There are two main approaches:

• Forgiving in the Moment
• A Receptive Heart

In the examples provided, most of the individuals did not actively pursue those who had wronged them. Instead, they kept a receptive and forgiving heart, ready to reconcile when the opportunity arose. Here’s a closer look:

Joseph:

Receptive Heart: Joseph did not pursue his brothers after they sold him into slavery. Instead, he focused on his circumstances in Egypt, rising to a position of power. When his brothers came to Egypt seeking food, Joseph tested them and ultimately revealed his identity, showing a forgiving heart and readiness to reconcile (Genesis 45:1-15).

David:

Receptive Heart: David did not pursue King Saul to harm him, despite being pursued by Saul. David had multiple opportunities to kill Saul but chose not to, demonstrating his respect for Saul as God’s anointed king and his desire for reconciliation (1 Samuel 24:10-12; 26:9-11).

Stephen:

Forgiving in the Moment: Stephen forgave his executioners while he was being stoned, praying for them as he was dying. He did not pursue those who wronged him but maintained a forgiving heart even in his final moments (Acts 7:59-60).

Jesus:

Forgiving in the Moment: Jesus forgave those who crucified Him while He was on the cross, praying for their forgiveness despite their actions. He did not pursue them but kept a heart of forgiveness (Luke 23:34).

Peter:

Receptive Heart: Peter did not actively seek out Jesus for forgiveness after denying Him. Instead, Jesus initiated the reconciliation, and Peter’s receptive heart allowed him to accept Jesus’ forgiveness and restoration (John 21:15-19).

The Prodigal Son’s Father:

Receptive Heart: The father in the parable did not pursue his wayward son. Instead, he waited with an open and forgiving heart, ready to welcome his son back when he returned home (Luke 15:20-24).

Paul:

Receptive Heart: Paul did not actively seek out those who had persecuted him once he became a Christian. He focused on his mission and ministry, showing forgiveness and grace to those who opposed him throughout his journey (2 Timothy 4:16-18).

Esau:

Receptive Heart: Esau did not pursue Jacob to seek revenge for the stolen birthright and blessing. Instead, he lived his life, and when the opportunity for reconciliation came, he embraced Jacob and forgave him (Genesis 33:4-11).

Conclusion:

In each of these cases, the individuals maintained a receptive and forgiving heart rather than actively pursuing those who had wronged them. They were open to reconciliation and forgiveness when the opportunity presented itself, demonstrating the power of a forgiving and gracious heart in overcoming learned helplessness and past hurts.

Return to Related Sermon Notes

• Sometimes we need to forgive others
• Sometimes we need to forgive each other
• Sometimes we need to forgive ourselves (the trait of guilt)

Remember:  It is God’s desire that we forgive one another.

If you’re unforgiving, you might:

• Bring anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience
• Become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can’t enjoy the present
• Become depressed or anxious
• Feel that your life lacks meaning or purpose, or that you’re at odds with your spiritual beliefs
• Lose valuable and enriching connectedness with others

What is Biblical Forgiveness?

Colossians 3:12‭-‬15 NIV

12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

• Ephesians 4:32 NIV Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

• 1 John 1:9 NIV If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Note

• Forgiveness does not mean the offense is ok
• Forgiveness is a deliberate act of love, mercy, and grace.
• Forgiveness is a decision to not hold something against another person, despite what he or she has done to you.
• If you don’t know when you can, don’t say you never will…

14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

• 1 Corinthians 13:5 NIV It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

• Philippians 4:6‭-‬7 NIV Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

The Example of Joseph

The Approach to Forgiveness

Remember:

Forgiveness does not mean the offense was ok.  It mean we choose to not longer hold it against the offender.

Joseph’s Story (Genesis 37-50):

1. Betrayal by His Brothers:

Genesis 37:23-28: Joseph’s brothers were jealous of him because he was their father Jacob’s favorite son. They conspired against him, threw him into a pit, and then sold him into slavery to a caravan of Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.

2. Joseph’s Hardships in Egypt:

Genesis 39-41: In Egypt, Joseph faced many hardships, including being falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife and subsequently imprisoned. Despite these trials, he remained faithful to God and eventually rose to a position of power as the governor of Egypt, second only to Pharaoh.

3. Joseph’s Encounter with His Brothers:

Genesis 42-45: During a severe famine, Joseph’s brothers came to Egypt seeking food. They did not recognize Joseph, but he recognized them. Joseph tested them to see if they had changed and ultimately revealed his identity.

4. Joseph’s Forgiveness:

Genesis 45:4-8:Joseph forgave his brothers, explaining that it was God’s plan for him to be in Egypt to save many lives, including their own. He reassured them and provided for their needs.

“Then Joseph said to his brothers, ‘Come close to me.’ When they had done so, he said, ‘I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing and reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God.’ “

5. Joseph’s Continued Kindness:

Genesis 50:15-21:After their father Jacob died, Joseph’s brothers feared that he might seek revenge. Joseph reassured them of his forgiveness and continued to show kindness, stating that what they meant for evil, God meant for good.

“But Joseph said to them, ‘Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.’ And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.”

Key Takeaways from Joseph’s Story:

1. Forgiveness Despite Deep Hurt:

Joseph experienced profound betrayal and hardship because of his brothers’ actions. Despite this, he chose to forgive them, demonstrating that forgiveness is possible even when the hurt is deep.

2. Understanding God’s Sovereignty:

Joseph recognized God’s hand in his circumstances. His understanding that God had a greater plan helped him to forgive his brothers and see the bigger picture.

3. Reconciliation and Restoration:

Joseph’s forgiveness led to reconciliation with his family. He not only forgave his brothers but also actively worked to restore their relationship and provide for their needs.

4. Forgiveness Frees Both Parties:

By forgiving his brothers, Joseph freed himself from bitterness and resentment. This act of forgiveness also freed his brothers from their guilt and fear, allowing for healing and restoration.

Conclusion:

Joseph’s story is a powerful example of forgiveness in the Bible. It shows that through God’s grace, it is possible to forgive even the deepest wrongs. Joseph’s ability to see God’s purpose in his suffering, his choice to forgive, and his efforts to restore relationships provide a profound model of forgiveness for all believers.

Return to Related Sermon Notes

Learned Helplessness is a psychological condition in which an individual comes to believe that they are powerless to change their situation, even when opportunities for change are available. This state often develops after repeated exposure to stressful or uncontrollable events, leading the person to feel that they have no control over their circumstances. 

Key characteristics and concepts of learned helplessness include:

• Perceived Lack of Control: The individual believes they cannot influence the outcome of events, leading to a sense of helplessness.
• Passivity: People may stop trying to change or escape their situation because they believe their efforts will be futile.
• Depression and Anxiety: Learned helplessness is often associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety, as the constant perception of powerlessness can severely affect mental health.
• Behavioral Symptoms: This condition can result in a decrease in motivation, a decline in problem-solving abilities, and a tendency to give up easily.
• Cognitive Effects: Individuals may develop a negative outlook on life, feel pessimistic about the future, and have low self-esteem.

A biblical figure who exhibited signs of learned helplessness is the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness after leaving Egypt.

Their Past

Slavery in Egypt:

 Exodus 1:13-14: The Israelites had been enslaved in Egypt for centuries. They experienced harsh labor and oppression, which ingrained a mindset of powerlessness and fear.

Fear of the Unknown:

 Exodus 14:10-12: Upon leaving Egypt and facing the Red Sea, the Israelites were terrified of the Egyptian army pursuing them. They questioned Moses, expressing a preference for returning to slavery rather than facing an uncertain future.

Complaints and Grumbling:

 Exodus 16:2-3: Throughout their journey, the Israelites frequently complained about their conditions. They longed for the familiar comforts of Egypt, even if it meant returning to slavery. Their complaints reflected a lack of trust in God’s provision.

Lack of Immediate Gratification:

 Exodus 32:1-4: While Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments, the Israelites grew impatient and created a golden calf to worship. This act of idolatry demonstrated their inability to wait and trust in God’s timing.

Fear of the Inhabitants of Canaan:

 Numbers 13:31-33: The report from the ten spies about the strength of the Canaanite inhabitants instilled fear and doubt among the Israelites. They perceived themselves as “grasshoppers” and believed they could not conquer the land, despite God’s promise.

Rebellion Against Leadership:

 Numbers 14:2-4: The Israelites frequently rebelled against Moses and Aaron, doubting their leadership and God’s plan. Their calls to return to Egypt showcased their reluctance to move forward into the unknown.

Doubt in God’s Provision:

 Numbers 20:2-5: When faced with a lack of water, the Israelites quarreled with Moses, accusing him of bringing them to the wilderness to die. Their immediate reaction to difficulties often involved questioning God’s ability to provide.

Short-Term Memory of God’s Miracles:

 Psalm 106:13-14: The Israelites often forgot the miracles God performed for them, such as parting the Red Sea and providing manna. This short-term memory contributed to their recurring doubt and lack of faith.

The Message

The Spies’ Report (Numbers 13:26-33):

Numbers 13:26-33 NIV They came back to Moses and Aaron and the whole Israelite community at Kadesh in the Desert of Paran. There they reported to them and to the whole assembly and showed them the fruit of the land. [27] They gave Moses this account: “We went into the land to which you sent us, and it does flow with milk and honey! Here is its fruit. [28] But the people who live there are powerful, and the cities are fortified and very large. We even saw descendants of Anak there. [29] The Amalekites live in the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live near the sea and along the Jordan.” [30] Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.” [31] But the men who had gone up with him said, “We can’t attack those people; they are stronger than we are.” [32] And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, “The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. [33] We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.”

• Moses sent twelve spies to explore the land of Canaan.
• Upon their return, ten of the spies reported that although the land was fertile, the inhabitants were powerful and the cities were fortified. They concluded, “We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.”

The Israelites’ Reaction (Numbers 14:1-4):

Numbers 14:1-4 NIV That night all the members of the community raised their voices and wept aloud. [2] All the Israelites grumbled against Moses and Aaron, and the whole assembly said to them, “If only we had died in Egypt! Or in this wilderness! [3] Why is the Lord bringing us to this land only to let us fall by the sword? Our wives and children will be taken as plunder. Wouldn’t it be better for us to go back to Egypt?” [4] And they said to each other, “We should choose a leader and go back to Egypt.”

•  Upon hearing the report, the entire community raised their voices and wept aloud.
• They grumbled against Moses and Aaron, expressing a desire to return to Egypt.
• They said, “We should choose a leader and go back to Egypt.”

Signs of Learned Helplessness:

• Despite witnessing numerous miracles, such as the parting of the Red Sea and daily manna from heaven, the Israelites felt powerless and fearful. Their desire to return to slavery in Egypt rather than face the challenges ahead indicates a learned helplessness mindset.

God’s Response (Numbers 14:5-9):

Numbers 14:5-9 NIV Then Moses and Aaron fell facedown in front of the whole Israelite assembly gathered there. [6] Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among those who had explored the land, tore their clothes [7] and said to the entire Israelite assembly, “The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. [8] If the Lord is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. [9] Only do not rebel against the Lord. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will devour them. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them.”

• Joshua and Caleb, two of the spies, tried to encourage the people, reminding them that the Lord was with them and that they should not be afraid. However, the community continued to express their helplessness and fear.

The Consequences of Learned Helplessness

Judgment on the Spies and the People (Numbers 14:24-38):

• God stated that the Israelites would wander in the desert for forty years—one year for each of the forty days the spies explored the land—until the generation that disobeyed had died out.
• The ten spies who brought back a bad report and incited rebellion were struck down by a plague and died.
• Joshua and Caleb were spared.

Key Takeaways:

Recognize the Signs of Learned Helplessness:

Understand that feelings of helplessness can stem from past experiences and repeated setbacks. Just like the Israelites, it’s important to identify when these feelings are influencing our current mindset and actions.

Trust in God’s Promises:

Remember that God is faithful and His promises are true. Despite the challenges and fears we face, we can rely on His word and His commitment to guide and protect us.

Find Strength in God’s Presence:

Acknowledge that God is always with us, even in our most difficult times. His presence provides the strength and courage needed to overcome feelings of helplessness.

Be Encouraged by Faithful Examples:

Look to examples like Joshua and Caleb, who demonstrated unwavering faith and courage. Their trust in God can inspire us to face our own giants with confidence.

Seek God’s Whisper in Times of Despair:

Just as God spoke to Elijah in a gentle whisper, He often reaches out to us in subtle ways. Take time to listen for God’s voice and seek His guidance in moments of despair.

Rely on Community Support:

Remember that we are not alone in our struggles. Just as God reminded Elijah that there were others who remained faithful, we too have a community of believers who can support and encourage us.

Take Practical Steps to Overcome Helplessness:

Engage in prayer, worship, and scripture study to strengthen your faith and combat feelings of helplessness. Surround yourself with positive influences and seek professional help if needed.

Add to your faithgoodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 2 PETER 1:5–7 NIV

Scripture Analysis of 2 Peter 1:5-7

In 2 Peter 1:5, the phrase “For this very reason” refers to the preceding verses, particularly 2 Peter 1:3-4, where Peter discusses the divine power and promises given to believers. Specifically, the reasons mentioned include:

Divine Power: God’s divine power has given believers everything they need for life and godliness through their knowledge of Him (2 Peter 1:3).

Precious Promises: Through God’s glory and goodness, believers have received great and precious promises, enabling them to participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires (2 Peter 1:4).

“For this very reason” indicates that because believers have been equipped with everything they need for a godly life and have been given precious promises, they should make every effort to grow in their faith by adding to it the virtues listed in verses 5-7.

2 Peter 1:5-7 (NIV):

“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faithgoodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”

Breakdown and Cross-References

• Faith with Goodness (Virtue)
  • Definition: Faith is the foundation, and goodness refers to moral excellence or righteousness.
  • Cross-Reference:Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
  • James 2:17: “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
• Goodness with Knowledge
  • Definition: Knowledge here implies a deeper understanding of God’s will and scriptures.
  • Cross-Reference:Proverbs 2:6: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
  • Hosea 4:6: “My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children.”
• Knowledge with Self-Control
  • Definition: Self-control is the ability to control one’s emotions, desires, and actions.
  • Cross-Reference:Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
  • Proverbs 25:28: “Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.”
• Self-Control with Perseverance
  • Definition: Perseverance is the ability to endure and remain firm through trials and tribulations.
  • Cross-Reference:James 1:3-4: “Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
  • Romans 5:3-4: “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
• Perseverance with Godliness
  • Definition: Godliness is living a life that is pleasing to God, reflecting His character.
  • Cross-Reference:1 Timothy 4:8: “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
  • Titus 2:12: “It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”
• Godliness with Mutual Affection
  • Definition: Mutual affection refers to the love and care among believers, akin to family love.
  • Cross-Reference:Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
  • Hebrews 13:1: “Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters.”
• Mutual Affection with Love (Agape)
  • Definition: Love in this context is agape love, which is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional.
  • Cross-Reference:1 Corinthians 13:13: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
  • John 13:34-35: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Key Takeaways

Spiritual Growth: Peter outlines a progression of spiritual qualities that build upon each other, starting with faith and culminating in love. This progression signifies the journey of a Christian toward maturity.

Active Effort: The phrase “make every effort” emphasizes that these qualities require intentional and diligent effort on the part of believers. Spiritual growth is not passive but active.

Holistic Development: The list of qualities encompasses moral excellence, intellectual growth, emotional control, endurance, piety, familial love, and universal love. This indicates that true spiritual growth is comprehensive, affecting all aspects of a believer’s life.

Foundation of Love: Love is the ultimate goal and the greatest virtue that encapsulates all others. It is the defining mark of a true disciple of Christ.

Interconnectedness: Each quality is interconnected, showing that spiritual virtues are not isolated but rather work together to form a well-rounded and mature Christian character.

John 3:1-4 Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council. [2] He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.” [3] Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” [4] “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!”

Scripture:

John 3:5-7 (NIV) Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’”

Breakdown and Cross-References

John 3:5

• “Born of water and the Spirit”:
  • Ezekiel 36:25-27: “I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean… I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.”
  • Titus 3:5: “He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”
  • Acts 2:38: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

John 3:6

• “Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit”:
  • Romans 8:5-9: “Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.”
  • 1 Corinthians 15:50: “I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.”

John 3:7

• “You must be born again”:
  • 1 Peter 1:23: “For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.”
  • 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
  • James 1:18: “He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.”

Key Takeaways

Necessity of Spiritual Rebirth:

• Jesus stresses that to enter the kingdom of God, one must be “born again.” This rebirth is a spiritual transformation involving both water (symbolizing baptism) and the Spirit (the Holy Spirit).

Dual Nature of Birth:

• There is a distinct difference between physical birth (“flesh gives birth to flesh”) and spiritual birth (“the Spirit gives birth to spirit”). Physical birth grants earthly life, while spiritual birth provides eternal life.

Role of Baptism and the Holy Spirit:

• The mention of water and Spirit highlights the importance of baptism and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the salvation process. Baptism represents repentance and cleansing, while the Spirit brings regeneration and renewal.

Transformation into a New Creation:

• Being born again means becoming a new creation in Christ. This transformation signifies a new nature, driven by the Holy Spirit, transitioning from a life led by fleshly desires to one led by the Spirit.

Foundation in the Old Testament:

• Jesus’ teaching is rooted in Old Testament prophecies, such as Ezekiel’s promise of a new heart and spirit, demonstrating the continuity and fulfillment of God’s plan from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant.

Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV):

“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”

Put Off Your Old Self

• Scripture: Colossians 3:9-10 – “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.”
• Scripture: Romans 6:6 – “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin.“
• Key Takeaway: The “old self” represents our former way of life dominated by sin and deceitful desires. Believers are called to abandon this old self, acknowledging that it has been crucified with Christ, freeing us from sin’s power.

Being Corrupted by Its Deceitful Desires

• Scripture: James 1:14-15 – “But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.“
• Scripture: 1 Peter 1:14 – “As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.“
• Key Takeaway: Deceitful desires lead to corruption and death. Recognizing the destructive nature of these desires helps believers resist temptation and live according to God’s will.

Be Made New in the Attitude of Your Minds

• Scripture: Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
• Scripture: Philippians 2:5 – “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.”
• Key Takeaway: Renewal of the mind is essential for transformation. This involves adopting the mindset of Christ and aligning our thoughts with God’s truth, leading to discernment and spiritual growth.

Put On the New Self

• Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!“
• Scripture: Galatians 3:27 – “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.“
• Key Takeaway: The “new self” represents our new identity in Christ. This involves embracing the characteristics and virtues of Christ, reflecting a life transformed by the Holy Spirit.

Created to Be Like God in True Righteousness and Holiness

• Scripture: Colossians 3:12 – “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.“
• Scripture: 1 Peter 1:15-16 – “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
• Key Takeaway: Believers are called to reflect God’s character in their lives, embodying true righteousness and holiness. This means living out virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, striving to be holy as God is holy.

Summary of Key Takeaways:

• Transformation: The process of Christian transformation involves actively putting off the old self and its corrupt desires, renewing the mind, and putting on the new self that reflects Christ.
• Renewal: Central to this transformation is the renewal of the mind, which aligns our thoughts and attitudes with God’s will and truth.
• New Identity: Embracing the new self means living out our new identity in Christ, characterized by righteousness, holiness, and the fruit of the Spirit.
• Holiness and Righteousness: The ultimate goal is to be like God in true righteousness and holiness, demonstrating the virtues that reflect His character in our daily lives.