A Secret Revealed

For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 1:8 (NKJV)

It often happens that church members come to me after the sermon to ask questions about certain points we've discussed. Most of the time, their questions concern their lifestyle and how to live according to God's will. These are the kinds of questions most believers ask themselves, even those in positions of responsibility. For them, despite all their efforts, it seems impossible to lead a holy life or to fully please God—a goal every believer hopes to achieve someday.

We may not be able to please God through our own efforts alone. However, He gives us the secret to a healthy life, in harmony with His word. This secret is knowing Jesus Christ, His life, His example, and His sacrifice. Those who know Jesus through His example and seek to develop a personal relationship with Him cannot help but bear abundant fruit and manifest the fruits of the Spirit. It is when we truly know Jesus by keeping His word that the Holy Spirit helps us to live a life that conforms to God's heart.

After explaining the virtues of the Christian life and urging his listeners to cultivate them, Peter affirms that they will no longer be barren or unfruitful. This means they will no longer be spiritual children, but will gradually mature in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. The true secret of Christian maturity lies in knowing Jesus. This knowledge is not limited to what we read about Him in the Bible, but stems from the intimate relationship we develop with Him. If a secret revealed is no longer a secret, then you have the means to grow in faith and lead a godly life, in accordance with God's heart.

May the grace and peace of God be with you all.