2 Peter 1:5-7
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
love.
Faith
2 Peter 1:5-7 lists several characteristics necessary to the Christian’s spiritual growth and fruitful maturity. Verse 5 notes we must work to attain these traits “with all diligence.” The term “diligence” implies we must be “doing our best” to “eagerly” acquire these virtues. The verse also says we must “add” these qualities to our own character. The term “add” means, “to supply in copious measure, to provide beyond the need, to supply more than generously, providing more than is barely demanded” (Wuest). Thus, the idea is we should not just do the bare minimum with regard to these qualities, but go above and beyond in the acquisition of these necessities.
The first trait mentioned and basis of all the other traits is “faith.” Looking at “faith” throughout the Scriptures, we notice it is…
Founded in the historical fact of Jesus Christ, not emotions. Even 2 Peter 1:16-21 makes the point Jesus is real and to be believed by His eyewitnesses.
Coupled with good works. A faith without works is a dead faith (see James 2:14-26).
Shown by our faithfulness. True faith exhibits itself in a life of obedience and faithfulness (Jude 3).
Never meant to be alone. 2 Peter 1 says we should “add to our faith.” Does that sound like an approval of the ever-popular “faith-only” doctrine?”
October 2008
Virtue
Virtue may not be as easy to define as it is to exemplify. In the Old Testament, Ruth had a reputation as a “virtuous woman” (Ruth 3:11). In studying Ruth, we can learn to work to add “virtue” to our own characters.
In Ruth, virtue was seen in her concern for others—not just herself. Although she could have left Naomi and stayed home she cared for her widowed mother-in-law (1:16-17). Later, Ruth even saves some of her “leftovers” to bring some home to the aged Naomi and share (2:14-18).
Secondly, Ruth portrayed virtue in her willingness to work. She did not expect to live at the pity of others but chose to do what she could to provide for herself (2:2).
Third, Ruth was virtuous in the way she spoke. She was thankful for her opportunities and respectful towards others (2:7-10). She does not take gifts for granted or receive them with a sense of entitlement.
Fourth, Ruth’s ability to listen to sound advice is a product of virtue. Naomi gives her daughter-in-law, Ruth, good advice on several occasions. Ruth is willing to listen and obey the voice of experience (3:1,18).
Finally, Ruth demonstrated virtue by showing good sexual discretion with Boaz and other young men. She works close to the other young women to avoid, not just the act, but the temptation with the younger men (2:8-9). As she converses with Boaz, she does not use sexuality to try to persuade him. The text discreetly points out they were careful to avoid such conduct (3:13-14).
By following such examples, we can develop a reputation for virtue!
November 2008
Knowledge
Peter’s emphasis on “knowledge” in the life of the Christian is evident in his second epistle. He refers to this quality several times and it is always connected to growth.
In 2 Peter 1:2 “knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord” leads to the multiplication of “grace and peace.” With this in mind, every Christian who desires personal and brotherly peace should endeavor to learn more about the Lord.
In 2 Peter 1:3 “knowledge” is the key to “life and godliness.” Life is more difficult and burdensome without a foundation of divine knowledge to help us conquer the trials of this life. Godly living is mere guesswork if we try to obtain it without a Scripture-based knowledge.
In 2 Peter 1:5 the “knowledge” we must “add” to our faith is defined as “moral wisdom” and “practical knowledge” (Thayer, Barnes). Being able to discern right from wrong and make honorable moral decisions depends upon our “knowledge.” One who is replete of divine knowledge will lack the tools essential to making good choices.
Finally, the last verse of 2 Peter teaches Christians to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” It should be every Christian’s goal to achieve spiritual growth. Yet, it cannot be done without “knowledge.” For this reason, personal Bible study, attending church assemblies for edification and making friends with wise spiritual advisers should be a priority for every Christian.
Is it a priority for you?
December 2008
Self-Control
The word “self-control” is also translated “temperance.” C.S. Lewis wrote, “One great piece of mischief has been done by the modern restriction of the word Temperance to the question of drink. It helps people to forget you can be intemperate about lots of other things” (Mere Christianity). Indeed, Lewis makes a valuable point. There are many ways the Christian must practice “self-control”in his Christian walk.
We must control our words. The Christian should not be one with “loose lips” or who “goes off.” The Christian must learn to use his tongue wisely, not allowing anger to lead to sin (James 3; Ephesians 4:29-5:4).
We must regulate ourselves sexually. One who engages in sexual relationships outside of Scriptural marriage is not exhibiting the proper type of self-control in this area. God expects us to act within His guidelines (Matthew 19:4-9; 1 Corinthians 6:18).
We must be disciplined in our spending habits. The one who “loves money” loves this world. Such a love causes us to forget the eternal God in favor of temporary possessions (Matthew 6:19-24; Colossians 3:1-4).
We must control our minds. In the list of elder’s qualifications in 1 Timothy 3, the term “temperate” is followed by the word “sober-minded.” One who exhibits self-control also has a sober mind. A lack of self-control starts with a failure in thinking. Can alcohol contribute to a failure to think clearly? Absolutely. For this reason, the one who seeks to exhibit “self-control” should avoid any drug which alters the mind and, thereby, weakens our ability to make sound decisions as Christians.
January 2009
Perseverance
The “perseverance” Peter notes we must “add to” our “faith” is the same “perseverance” James mentions Job possessed (James 5:11). By looking at this quality from the character of Job, we learn it includes…
...the ability to reasonably face any hardship. Job faced the reality of financial ruin as he lost his great possessions (Job 1:9-17). He felt the emotional pain of grief as his children died in a disaster (1:18-19). Boils brought physical suffering (2:7- 8). To add insult to injury, Job’s friends were pitiful comforters.
...a consistent endurance in the presence of trials. As Job’s wife cracked under the pressure, he remained reasonable in the face of adversity. Job 1 :22 says, “In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong.” Even after his body is struck with boils, “...Job did not sin with his lips” (2:10). Job’s question to his own wife displays his own attitude as he asks, “Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” (2:10). How many jump on God’s bandwagon in times of material prosperity only to jump off when the slightest challenge must be faced?
...an outlook which focuses on the goal. The one who perseveres to the end, must keep the end goal in mind. Job 42:12 says, “...the Lord blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning…” God rewards Job for having a faith that trusts God can provide. The Christian, despite his present struggles in this life, must also look to the reward of heaven. God has a place prepared for those who live their lives doing the Lord’s will. Perseverance demands we keep this goal in mind throughout our daily lives.
February 2009
Godliness
The word “godliness” is a word synonymous with “piety.” Such “piety” displays itself in a “Godward attitude” that offers “worship rightly directed” (Vine, Vincent). We may learn even more about “godliness” by noticing the contexts in which it is used in the Scriptures.
“Godliness” must be exercised. Paul wrote, “...exercise yourself toward godliness” (1 Timothy 4:6-9). Just like one must be “health-conscious” to promote bodily exercise, the one who is “God-conscious” will spend more time in spiritual exercise.
True godliness will lead to contentment. Paul also taught “godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:3-11). Here, Paul contrasts those who use godliness as a means of worldly gain with those who are content with their worldly lot because they are godly! The godly are not concerned with impressing others materially. Truly, if our only concern is impressing God, earthly treasures will matter little to us since God owns the entire world and all we have is His.
Godliness must be more than an empty show. Paul warned of those who had a “form of godliness” (2 Timothy 3:1-5). Some seem pious but are inwardly corrupt. To these, worship is merely a contrived act to bring themselves praise. Look at many “worship leaders” today and some are more interested in entertaining a crowd than offering heartfelt praise to God. Paul was warning of these types of false religious people.
Finally, God’s grace teaches us to deny ungodliness (Titus 2:11-14). If we focus on God’s role for us in life, we will make major strides toward accepting His grace.
March 2009
Brotherly Kindness
Mistreatment of our brethren is a common temptation and source of division. For that reason, the Spirit guides Peter to inform brethren of the need for “brotherly kindness” if we expect to be fruitful as the Lord’s workers (2 Peter 1:8).
A beautiful example of brotherly love may actually be found in the Old Testament. Abram and his nephew, Lot, had journeyed from their homes and just left Egypt on their journey to the “promised land.” Both of them were wealthy and successful (Genesis 13:2,5). Both of them took their journey together, suggesting a unity of purpose (Genesis 13:1). They even offered worship (13:3-4). Yet, as often occurs, a problem arose among these kinsmen. Unfortunately, the “land was not able to support them” and “there was strife between” their herdsmen (13:6-7). How did these men handle the problem?
They resolved not to allow a mere inconvenience ruin their friendship (13:8). This argument was not a matter of truth and error. It was a difference of opinion. Opinions should not be forced to the point of division.
They recalled their relationship and the attitude such demands (13:8). Abram simply says, “...we are brethren.” Family should not be so petty to allow issues of property lines and possessions tear them apart.
Abram sacrifices his own desires and gives Lot first choice (13:9-12). Abram may have preferred the “well-watered...plain of Jordan.” However, to keep his relationship intact he allows Lot to choose first. Do you allow opinions to cause division in your spiritual family?
April 2009
Love
The references to love in the Scriptures are extensive. Verse after verse could be cited to demonstrate love’s importance in our lives. Yet, the true character of love may be best understood as it is exemplified in the lives of the godly. One such character is Joseph from the book of Genesis.
Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers and a series of discouraging trials followed. Yet, through God’s providence, Joseph becomes Pharaoh’s second-in-command during the days of a great famine (41:39-40). During his tenure, his brothers traveled from Canaan to Egypt to find food and are forced to ask the brother they sold into slavery for help. Joseph’s response teaches much about love.
Love forgives. Joseph was able to forgive his brothers of awful crimes seeing God’s hand in the chain of events which followed (45:4-5).
Love saves. Joseph knew it was in his power to save his brethren from the famine. So, he acted on the opportunity (45:6-7).
Love emotes. The outpouring of emotion is seen as Joseph hugs and weeps openly (45:14-15).
Love is kind. Joseph, at Pharaoh’s suggestion, brings his entire family to Egypt so they might weather the famine together. This act suggests a sincere love (45:16-18).
Love will be blessed. As Jacob nears the end of his life he offers a blessing to Joseph and his two sons (Genesis 48). Just as hatred has its punishment love has its reward. The reward for the Christian is an “entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:11).
May 2009