March 5 2 Peter 1:5-7
For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.
Context & Meaning
This passage is part of Peter’ss exhortation to believers to grow in their faith. He emphasizes a progressive spiritual development, a kind of ladder of virtues, that builds upon itself. This aligns with his earlier statement (2 Peter 1:3-4) that God has granted believers everything they need for a godly life through His divine power. In response, Christians are to actively cultivate godly character.
Verse Breakdown:
1. Faith >Virtue
Faith is the foundation of the Christian life, but it must be accompanied by virtue (moral excellence or righteousness).
2. Virtue >Knowledge
Moral excellence should be guided by knowledge, meaning understanding of God’s will, wisdom, and discernment.
3. Knowledge >Self-Control
As believers gain knowledge, they must exercise self-control, mastering their desires and impulses.
4. Self-Control >Steadfastness
Self-discipline must be paired with perseverance, the ability to endure trials with faith and patience.
5. Steadfastness >Godliness
Perseverance fosters godliness,reverence and devotion to God.
6. Godliness >Brotherly Affection (Philia)
True godliness expresses itself in philia, or brotherly kindness, genuine care for fellow believers.
7. Brotherly Affection >Love (Agape)
The highest virtue is agape, selfless, unconditional love that mirrors Christ’s love.
Application & Theological Significance
Spiritual Growth is Intentional
Peter urges believers to make every effort, showing that spiritual maturity is not passive but requires discipline and diligence.
Christian Character is Holistic
Each virtue builds upon the other, leading to a well-rounded Christian life that balances faith, knowledge, discipline, endurance, and love.
Love is the Ultimate Goal
The culmination of this spiritual progression is love (agape), which is the mark of a true disciple (John 13:35).
Conclusion
2 Peter 1:5-7 provides a roadmap for Christian growth, showing how faith must be actively cultivated with moral excellence, wisdom, discipline, perseverance, reverence, kindness, and ultimately, love. It serves as both an encouragement and a challenge for believers to pursue spiritual maturity diligently.
I have certainly experienced that living a Christlike life is an ever deepening process of growth towards the fullness of faithfulness. Almost each day has an Ahah moment of challenge to live into oneness with Jesus.
How has your faith eccolved over time?
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