“For this reason I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things, though you know and are established in the present truth.”
to remind you always of these things
Peter knew his days were numbered on earth. He now speaks of essential components of Christianity because so little time remains for him. At the point of death, we speak of the most important things to us.
God’s purpose for the believer is to be constantly reminded of the importance of God’s Word. This is a daily challenge for every pastor.
The “these things” are seven items listed in verses five through seven. “These things” have to do with living the Christian life. When we get sloppy with our walk with God, we become a distinct liability to the cause of Christ; we are no asset to Him. We are not a good advertisement for Christ. We are not a help but a hindrance to Him.
though you know
Peter says, in effect, “You already know these matters, but nevertheless, I will always remind you of them.” It is one thing to know these things in our minds, and it is another to know them in our hearts.
PRINCIPLE:
We need to familiarize ourselves with the familiar.
APPLICATION:
A good minister always reminds his congregation of foundational truths. A pastor who does not put his assembly in remembrance of truth fails as a minister of Jesus Christ. The church does not always need to hear new and novel things. Dr. Harry Ironside used to say, “If it’s new, it’s not true, and if it’s true, it’s not new.” Many leaders today try to be sensational and spectacular to attract followers. A “good minister” nourishes his people in the faith.
1 Ti 4:6, “If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.”
We cannot drive 100 miles an hour through the countryside and enjoy the beauty of the landscape around us. Neither can we rush through the Christian life and appreciate what the Lord has done for us. We need to spend time in the Word and thus dwell in God’s truth.
