1:6 1:6

2 Peter 1:7

1:8 1:8

Bible Versions

And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
And {G1161} to {G1722} godliness {G2150} brotherly kindness {G5360}; and {G1161} to {G1722} brotherly kindness {G5360} charity {G26}.
godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.
and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.
and in your godliness brotherly kindness; and in your brotherly kindness love.

2 Peter 1:7 is a crucial verse in Peter's exhortation to believers, outlining the progression of virtues that should characterize a life transformed by faith. It specifically focuses on the development of love, moving from specific affection within the Christian community to a broader, all-encompassing love.

Context

This verse is part of a "spiritual ladder" or chain of virtues that Peter encourages believers to "add" to their faith. Beginning in 2 Peter 1:5, he lists: faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance (self-control), patience (endurance), godliness, brotherly kindness, and finally, charity (love). The purpose of cultivating these qualities is to ensure that believers are not "unfruitful" or "barren" in their knowledge of Christ, but rather that their calling and election are made sure (2 Peter 1:8-10).

Key Themes

  • Progressive Spiritual Growth: The verse highlights the dynamic nature of the Christian walk. It's not about acquiring a single virtue but building one upon another, demonstrating a continuous process of sanctification and maturity.
  • Brotherly Kindness (Philadelphia): This refers to the specific affection and love shared among fellow believers. It is the bond of unity and mutual care that should define the Christian community.
  • Charity (Agape Love): This is the pinnacle virtue, representing the highest form of selfless, unconditional, and divine love. It encompasses brotherly kindness but extends beyond it, demonstrating God's own nature.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV translation of "brotherly kindness" and "charity" reveals an important progression in the original Greek:

  • Brotherly Kindness: The Greek word is philadelphia (φιλαδελφία), which literally means "love of brothers" or "brotherly love." It signifies a deep affection and bond within a family or community, particularly among Christians. It is the love for one's spiritual siblings.
  • Charity: The Greek word is agape (ἀγάπη). This is the profound, unconditional, self-sacrificial love that characterizes God Himself (1 John 4:8). While philadelphia is a warm affection for fellow believers, agape is a deliberate, volitional love that extends even to enemies (Matthew 5:44) and seeks the highest good of the other. It is the love that "suffers long, and is kind" (1 Corinthians 13:4).

The progression in 2 Peter 1:7 suggests that as believers grow in godliness, their love for fellow Christians (philadelphia) should naturally lead to a broader, more profound, and self-sacrificial love for all (agape).

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Peter 1:7 is a call to intentional spiritual development:

  • Cultivate Community: Actively engage in Christian fellowship, showing genuine care, support, and affection for those within the church family. This is the foundation of brotherly kindness.
  • Extend Love Beyond the Circle: Don't let your love stop at your immediate Christian friends. Strive to exhibit agape love to all people, reflecting God's character. This includes those who are difficult to love, those outside the faith, and those who may oppose you.
  • Measure Your Growth: The presence and depth of these forms of love are indicators of spiritual maturity and effectiveness in Christ. Are you merely tolerating others, or are you actively seeking their good and demonstrating Christ-like love?

Ultimately, the development of brotherly kindness and charity is essential for a vibrant faith that truly honors God and impacts the world.

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.

  • Hebrews 13:1

    ¶ Let brotherly love continue.

  • Romans 12:10

    [Be] kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:12

    And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all [men], even as we [do] toward you:

  • John 13:34

    A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

  • John 13:35

    By this shall all [men] know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:1

    ¶ Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become [as] sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:8

    ¶ Charity never faileth: but whether [there be] prophecies, they shall fail; whether [there be] tongues, they shall cease; whether [there be] knowledge, it shall vanish away.
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