Adam Clarke defines temperance as, “the proper and limited use of all earthly enjoyments, keeping every sense under proper restraint.” In reading 2 Peter 1:5-7, we find that this is another aspect of Christian character that God expects us to add to our spiritual life.
QUESTIONS
- Proverbs 16:32 indicates that one needs to rule his spirit. Explain how you think this verse relates to temperance.
- Looking at Luke 21:34, and using a dictionary, briefly define the following:
Overcharged
Surfeiting
Drunkenness - Read 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. Because of lack of temperance or lack of moderation, there are many things that could be done to defile the temple of God. For example, one may eat too much, or too little. Give other examples showing how the temple of God can be abused by extremes.
- Temperance for Christians involves moderation, not in sinful habits or wrongdoing, but in things that are lawful. Suggest how temperance could be exercised in the following areas:
Use of time
Control of appetites
Use of money - Temperance, or self-control, is discipline. Explain what you think Paul meant in 1 Corinthians 9:27.
- How do you “bridle” your tongue (James 3:2)? Controlling the tongue is more than eliminating the obvious sins of the tongue, such as lying or swearing. In what ways should a Christian be watchful or exercise control over his tongue? See Proverbs 10:19.
- Moderation in all aspects of our daily living will be possible if we can answer these questions in the affirmative. Pose a hypothetical question or situation that might confront one in your peer group, and make an application using the following questions.
Will it glorify God? 1 Corinthians 10:31-32
Can it be done for the Lord? Colossians 3:23-24
Can it be done in Jesus’ name? Colossians 3:17
How will it appear to others? 1 Thessalonians 5:22
Would it hinder another Christian? Romans 14:21
Does it involve the wrong company? 2 Corinthians 6:14-15
Does it compromise my testimony? 1 Corinthians 6:12
Is this God’s will for me? James 4:15,17
Am I willing to face it in the Judgment? 2 Corinthians 5:10
THEME THOUGHTS
The Apostle Peter, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, has given us a formula. We read: “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.” It is promised that “if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:5-8). With a promise such as this, we would do well to dig deep into the full meanings of these qualities. We, as Christians, must add them to our spiritual character so we can fulfill Christ’s charge to us to bring forth fruit. It is possible that Peter presented these attributes in an intended progression. Taking these attributes as a basis for our quarter, we have included several others which are important to the development of Christian character. As you study each of these lessons, be aware of how these attributes overlap and build on each other.