Ep.1425: How Do I Grow in Godliness as a Christian? (Christian Character Series Part VII)
Recognizing the deep impact of true godliness on our discipleship walk
CHAPTERS
Theme Scripture: 2 Peter 1:6-7
The blueprint for Christian character development the Apostle Peter gives us in 2 Peter 1 focuses us on a profound series of steps we need to take in order to be more Christlike. With this blueprint, Peter lays out for us a ladder of Christian character development. As we examine it, we find that each rung of this ladder is vital to our success in climbing up onto the next rung. In the last five parts of this series, we have focused on one rung of this ladder at a time and worked on making the connections between what our foundation is and how each step makes us more like Jesus. Now comes the sixth step, and this one really begins to shape what our outward Christian character should look like!
In this episode, we continue our Christian Character Series by examining the sixth rung of Peter’s “virtue ladder” in 2 Peter 1:5‑7: godliness. Godliness is not "looking religious," but a whole‑life orientation toward God, expressed through reverence, devotion, humility and a character that consistently seeks God’s will. It is the “allegiance of our character,” the natural outgrowth of perseverance and self‑control working together.
Fake godliness
Godliness is not something humans possess naturally; it must be developed intentionally through discipline, sound doctrine and a continual turning away from worldly distractions (1 Timothy 4:6‑8). True godliness grows from the inside out and can't be faked, even though many in the “last days” may display only an appearance of it (2 Timothy 3:1‑5). Real godliness is rooted in Christ’s teachings, not tradition, and must never be used as a means of earthly gain (1 Timothy 6:3‑10). Instead, godliness produces contentment, freeing believers from the traps of wealth, status and self‑promotion.
Misplaced priorities
We also highlight the dangers of misplaced priorities through Jesus’ Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:22) and the encounter with the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16‑22). Can we truly be called “men or women of God” (1 Timothy 6:11)? Are we pursuing transformation through the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2‑3)? Ultimately, godliness must be visible, shining as a testimony that glorifies God (Matthew 5:16). It is the payoff of perseverance and a foundational step toward authentic discipleship.
Key Takeaways
- Godliness is the allegiance of our character, formed by the previous five virtues.
- True godliness is internal, genuine and rooted in Scripture, not outward performance.
- It can't be used for earthly gain; its true gain is contentment.
- Godliness requires discipline, perseverance and continual renewal of the mind.
- It must be visible, shining in a way that glorifies God, not us.
This a comment from an earlier episode that I enjoyed very much ! Joh 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be there also. (Thought of Jesus always connected to God in the spirit while living i.e. “where I am ” in the continuous present tense ! .While bearing the Perfect body in the Pattern shown on the Mount to the entrance to the Most Holy ! As also for us (.1Co 6:17 But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit.2Co 4:11 For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus may be revealed in our mortal flesh.2Co 5:14 For the love of Christ constrains us; because we judge thus, that one died for all, therefore all died.”)Joh 14:31 But that the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father commanded me, so I do. Arise, let us go from here.” The consummate blessing for the consecrated to be in heart and mind vessels of God’s Love ,as He is himself , while in the friendly legal confines of the Tabernacle Picture ! Eph.6:10-18 ,etc./ Rom. 8:17-29..Lord bless the fellowship !