2 Peter 1:5

KJV

¶ And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532}{G1161} beside {G846} this {G5124}, giving {G3923} all {G3956} diligence {G4710}, add {G2023} to {G1722} your {G5216} faith {G4102} virtue {G703}; and {G1161} to {G1722} virtue {G703} knowledge {G1108};

Complete Jewish Bible

For this very reason, try your hardest to furnish your faith with goodness, goodness with knowledge,

Berean Standard Bible

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge;

American Standard Version

Yea, and for this very cause adding on your part all diligence, in your faith supply virtue; and in your virtue knowledge;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Peter 1:5 serves as a crucial exhortation for believers to actively and diligently pursue spiritual maturity, building upon the foundation of their faith. It calls for intentional effort to cultivate a progressive series of virtues, beginning with moral excellence and practical understanding, as an essential response to the divine provisions already granted through Christ. This verse initiates a profound description of the Christian's journey of growth, emphasizing that genuine faith is dynamic and expresses itself through a life of increasing Christ-likeness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the opening salutation and theological foundation of Peter's second epistle. In the preceding verses, Peter establishes the divine enablement for Christian living, asserting that God's "divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life" through our knowledge of Christ ([2 Peter 1:3](/2_peter/1-3 "2 Peter 1:3 - Divine Power for Godliness")). He further highlights the "great and precious promises" that allow believers to "participate in the divine nature" and escape the world's corruption ([2 Peter 1:4](/2_peter/1-4 "2 Peter 1:4 - Participation in the Divine Nature")). Therefore, [2 Peter 1:5](/2_peter/1-5 "2 Peter 1:5 - The Call to Diligence and Virtue") is not a command to earn salvation or divine favor, but rather an imperative to actively live out the implications of the salvation and divine nature already received. It marks a transition from God's provision to the believer's diligent response, initiating the famous "ladder of virtues" that extends through [2 Peter 1:5-7](/2_peter/1-5-7 "2 Peter 1:5-7 - The Ladder of Christian Virtues").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter's audience likely consisted of believers in Asia Minor, facing internal challenges from false teachers and external pressures from the surrounding pagan culture. The concepts of "virtue" (aretē) and "knowledge" (gnōsis) were prominent in Hellenistic thought, but Peter redefines them within a Christian framework. While pagan philosophies might pursue virtue for self-perfection or societal honor, Peter grounds Christian virtue in God's character and the pursuit of Christ-likeness. Similarly, the "knowledge" he advocates is not the speculative, elitist "gnosis" that would later characterize Gnosticism (which Peter implicitly warns against throughout his letter, particularly in [2 Peter 2](/2_peter/2 "2 Peter 2 - Warnings Against False Teachers")), but rather a practical, experiential understanding of God's truth that leads to godly living and discernment. The urgency conveyed by "giving all diligence" reflects the spiritual battle against deception and moral decay that Peter's readers were experiencing.
* **Key Themes:** [Second Peter 1:5](/2_peter/1-5 "2 Peter 1:5 - The Foundation of Faith and Growth") contributes significantly to several key themes within the epistle. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **spiritual growth and maturity**, presenting it not as an automatic process but as a diligent pursuit. Secondly, it highlights **divine enablement and human responsibility**, showing that while God provides all that is necessary, believers must actively engage in their sanctification. Thirdly, it sets the stage for the theme of **combating false teaching** by emphasizing the need for true "knowledge" (gnōsis) that is grounded in Christ and leads to moral excellence, contrasting it with the deceptive "knowledge" offered by heretics. Finally, this verse introduces the **progressive nature of Christian character**, where each virtue builds upon the last, forming a complete and fruitful spiritual life, culminating in a fruitful knowledge of Jesus Christ as described in [2 Peter 1:8](/2_peter/1-8 "2 Peter 1:8 - Fruitful Knowledge of Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Diligence (Greek, _spoudḗ'_):** This term, meaning "speed," "despatch," "eagerness," or "earnestness," conveys the idea of putting forth maximum, eager effort. It implies a sense of urgency and wholehearted commitment. In [2 Peter 1:5](/2_peter/1-5 "2 Peter 1:5 - The Call to Diligence"), it underscores that spiritual growth is not passive but requires intentional, zealous exertion from the believer, indicating a purposeful and energetic pursuit of the virtues that follow.
* **Add (Greek, _epichorēgéō'_):** Derived from a word related to providing a chorus for a play, this verb means "to furnish besides," "to fully supply," or "to aid/contribute." It suggests a generous, abundant provision or contribution. Here, it signifies that believers are to actively and generously supply or "add" these virtues to their faith, implying a continuous and bountiful process of development, much like a patron fully funding a performance. It's not a meager addition but a rich, ongoing contribution to one's spiritual character.
* **Virtue (Greek, _arétē'_):** Properly meaning "manliness" or "valor," this word signifies "excellence" (intrinsic or attributed). In a moral and theological context, as used in [2 Peter 1:5](/2_peter/1-5 "2 Peter 1:5 - Adding Virtue"), it denotes moral excellence, goodness, or uprightness. It refers to a life that embodies ethical strength and integrity, reflecting God's character and demonstrating courageous adherence to His standards in the face of worldly pressures.
* **Knowledge (Greek, _gnōsis'_):** From the verb "to know" (ginōskō), this term refers to "knowing (the act)" or "knowledge." In the context of [2 Peter 1:5](/2_peter/1-5 "2 Peter 1:5 - Adding Knowledge"), it signifies a practical, experiential understanding of God's will, His ways, and His truth. It is not merely intellectual information but a discerning wisdom that allows one to apply virtue wisely, navigate life according to divine principles, and distinguish truth from error, particularly vital given Peter's warnings against false teachers.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And beside this, giving all diligence,"**: This opening phrase emphasizes the believer's active and earnest participation. "Beside this" connects to the preceding verses, indicating that *in addition* to God's divine provision of everything necessary for life and godliness, the believer must exert "all diligence"—a complete and zealous effort. This highlights the synergy between divine grace and human responsibility in the process of sanctification.
* **"add to your faith virtue;"**: Here, "faith" is presented as the foundational element, the initial trust in God and His promises that marks the beginning of the Christian life. Upon this bedrock, believers are commanded to "add virtue," which refers to moral excellence and ethical uprightness. This means that genuine faith is not static but must manifest itself in a life characterized by goodness, integrity, and courageous adherence to godly principles.
* **"and to virtue knowledge;"**: Following the cultivation of moral excellence, the believer is to add "knowledge." This is not abstract intellectualism but a practical, discerning understanding of God's truth and will. It is the wisdom that enables believers to apply their virtues appropriately, to discern spiritual truths, and to guard against error. This progression implies that moral excellence is to be guided and informed by a deepening, experiential understanding of God.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Progression** and **Emphasis** to convey its message. The structure of "add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;" illustrates a clear **Progression**, forming the initial steps of what is often called Peter's "ladder" or "chain" of virtues in [2 Peter 1:5-7](/2_peter/1-5-7 "2 Peter 1:5-7 - The Ladder of Christian Virtues"). Each quality is built upon the previous one, indicating a sequential and developmental process in Christian character formation. The phrase "giving all diligence" serves as a powerful **Emphasis** on the active, intentional effort required from the believer. This highlights that spiritual growth is not passive but demands earnest, zealous participation. The use of the verb "add" (epichorēgéō) also carries an implied **Metaphor** of a generous supply or contribution, suggesting that these virtues are not to be added grudgingly or minimally, but bountifully and continuously, like a patron fully funding a performance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Second Peter 1:5 profoundly articulates the biblical concept of sanctification as a cooperative endeavor between God's divine enablement and the believer's diligent response. It underscores that while salvation is a gift received by faith, the Christian life is a journey of active growth and transformation. This verse refutes any notion of passive Christianity, emphasizing that true faith is dynamic, manifesting itself in moral excellence and discerning knowledge. It highlights the progressive nature of spiritual maturity, where foundational faith leads to the cultivation of virtues, which in turn are guided by a deepening understanding of God's truth. This active pursuit of godliness is essential for a fruitful and effective Christian life, safeguarding believers against spiritual stagnation and the deceptive influences of false teaching.

* [Philippians 2:12](/philippians/2-12 "Philippians 2:12 - Work Out Your Salvation")
* [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind")
* [Colossians 1:9-10](/colossians/1-9-10 "Colossians 1:9-10 - Full Knowledge and Fruitful Life")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Second Peter 1:5 is a powerful call to intentional spiritual growth, reminding us that while our salvation is entirely by God's grace, our sanctification requires our active and diligent participation. It challenges any complacency in our faith journey, urging us to move beyond mere belief to a life characterized by increasing moral excellence and practical wisdom. This means consciously seeking opportunities to grow, making disciplined choices that align with God's character, and continually deepening our understanding of His Word and His ways. For the contemporary believer, "adding to your faith virtue and knowledge" translates into a commitment to ethical living, a pursuit of biblical literacy, and a desire for discernment in a world filled with competing truths. It is a lifelong process of transformation, where our initial faith in Christ blossoms into a mature, fruitful, and discerning walk that honors God and blesses others.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you need to "give all diligence" to cultivate Christian virtue?**
* **How does your current understanding of "faith" influence your pursuit of "virtue" and "knowledge"?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to "add" more virtue and knowledge to your faith?**
* **How does the pursuit of true "knowledge" (gnōsis) protect you from deceptive influences in today's world?**

### FAQ
**Does "add to your faith" imply that salvation is earned through works?**

Answer: No, "add to your faith" in [2 Peter 1:5](/2_peter/1-5 "2 Peter 1:5 - Not Earning Salvation") does not imply that salvation is earned through works. Peter has already established in [2 Peter 1:3-4](/2_peter/1-3-4 "2 Peter 1:3-4 - God's Provision for Godliness") that believers have already received "everything we need for a godly life" through God's divine power and "exceeding great and precious promises." The call to "add" these virtues is a response to, and an outworking of, the salvation already graciously given. It speaks to the process of sanctification—the lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ—which is a natural and necessary overflow of genuine faith, not a prerequisite for obtaining it. It's about living out the new nature received in Christ, not earning it.

**What kind of "knowledge" is Peter referring to here? Is it just intellectual understanding?**

Answer: The "knowledge" (Greek, _gnōsis_) Peter refers to in [2 Peter 1:5](/2_peter/1-5 "2 Peter 1:5 - Practical Knowledge") is more than mere intellectual understanding. While it includes knowing biblical truths, it primarily signifies a practical, experiential, and discerning knowledge of God and His will. It's the kind of understanding that transforms behavior and guides moral choices. It's the wisdom to apply "virtue" effectively and to discern truth from error, especially vital given Peter's warnings against false teachers who peddle deceptive "knowledge" later in his epistle ([2 Peter 2](/2_peter/2 "2 Peter 2 - Warnings Against False Teachers")). This knowledge is rooted in a relationship with God and empowers believers to live a life pleasing to Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Second Peter 1:5, while a direct call to human diligence, finds its ultimate fulfillment and enablement in Jesus Christ. He is the perfect embodiment of all the virtues Peter exhorts believers to cultivate. Christ is the very definition of "virtue" or moral excellence, living a life without sin and perfectly reflecting the character of God ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Christ's Sinlessness")). Furthermore, He is the source and sum of all "knowledge," for in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, the Treasure of Wisdom and Knowledge")). Believers are called to "add" these qualities not merely as a self-improvement project, but as a continuous process of being conformed to the image of Christ ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to Christ's Image")). Our diligence in adding virtue and knowledge is empowered by the Holy Spirit, whom Christ sent ([John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit, the Teacher")), and it is for the purpose of growing in our "knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" ([2 Peter 3:18](/2_peter/3-18 "2 Peter 3:18 - Grow in Grace and Knowledge of Christ")). Thus, every step on Peter's ladder of virtues is a step deeper into Christ, revealing more of His character through us and ultimately leading to a richer, more fruitful relationship with Him ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abiding in Christ and Bearing Fruit")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.

Proverbs 4:23

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life.

2 Peter 3:18

But grow in grace, and [in] the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him [be] glory both now and for ever. Amen.

2 Peter 1:2

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,

2 Peter 1:3

According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that [pertain] unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

Hebrews 6:11

And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:

2 Peter 1:10

Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: