The sermon titled: Living in the Spiritual Dimension, based on 2 Peter 1, presented by Pastor Allen Victor.

In his second letter, the Apostle Peter encourages believers to live beyond the limitations of the natural world by stepping into the spiritual dimension, a life empowered by God’s divine nature. Peter begins by introducing himself as “Simon Peter,” highlighting his transformation from “Simon,” meaning “harkening” or “listening,” to “Peter,” the “Rock” upon which Jesus promised to build His church. He identifies himself as both a bondservant and an apostle—humble yet commissioned with divine authority to establish doctrine, raise leaders, and spread the Gospel (2 Peter 1:1).

Peter reminds his audience that their precious faith is not a result of human effort, but a gift granted through the righteousness of Jesus Christ. This faith is precious because it unlocks grace, peace, and the ability to experience God personally rather than merely learning about Him. Through experiential knowledge—described as epignósis, a deep, interactive understanding of Christ—believers gain access to everything needed for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:2-3).

Peter paints a vivid picture of the spiritual life as transcending the biological and soulish dimensions. Most people live in two dimensions—physical and emotional—but few embrace the third: the spiritual life, made available by God’s divine power. Drawing an analogy to a 4D theater experience where we not only hear and see, but feel wind, or the sprinkle of water, or vibrations from our seats.  Peter shows how the spiritual realm adds depth, power, and eternal purpose to life. Through the promises of God, believers partake in His divine nature, escaping the corruption of the world brought about by sinful desires (2 Peter 1:4).

However, Peter emphasizes that living in the spiritual dimension requires active participation. He outlines seven key components that must be diligently cultivated:

1. Virtue – Moral excellence and righteousness.
2. Knowledge – Biblical understanding gained through Scripture.
3. Self-Control – The discipline to restrain fleshly desires and impulses.
4. Perseverance – Endurance in the face of trials, driven by a desire to please Jesus above all else.
5. Godliness – Reverence and devotion that come from spending time with Jesus, reflecting His character.
6. Brotherly Kindness – Compassion and friendliness toward others.
7. Love – Agape, selfless and sacrificial love, modeled by Christ.

These qualities, Peter explains, ensure that believers will be neither barren nor unfruitful but will instead live lives that bear eternal fruit (2 Peter 1:5-8). He warns against spiritual shortsightedness and amnesia, which cause many Christians to live as though the spiritual dimension is out of reach. Shortsightedness focuses on temporal concerns, while spiritual amnesia forgets the transformative power of forgiveness through Christ (2 Peter 1:9).

Peter concludes with a call to diligence, urging believers to confirm their calling and election by actively living out their faith. This effort, he assures us, is not about earning salvation but about manifesting its evidence through godly living. He likens this journey to navigating into a safe harbor, guided by God’s promises and power (2 Peter 1:10-11).

As Peter faced his approaching death, he was determined to leave a lasting reminder of these truths for future generations. His confidence in the reliability of Scripture stems from his eyewitness experience of Christ’s majesty and the prophetic confirmation of God’s Word. The Bible, Peter asserts, is wholly inspired by the Holy Spirit, written by diverse authors over centuries yet united in its message of redemption (2 Peter 1:12-21).

This sermon challenges believers to examine their lives. Are we merely existing in the physical and emotional dimensions, or are we tapping into the fullness of spiritual life? By walking in the spiritual dimension, we experience a life that transcends the temporary, bearing eternal fruit that reflects the glory of God.

Join us at Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, where Pastor Allen Victor unpacks the timeless truths of God’s Word, helping us navigate life with faith and purpose.

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