2 Peter 1:6

And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;

And {G1161} to {G1722} knowledge {G1108} temperance {G1466}; and {G1161} to {G1722} temperance {G1466} patience {G5281}; and {G1161} to {G1722} patience {G5281} godliness {G2150};

knowledge with self-control, self-control with perseverance, perseverance with godliness,

and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;

and in your knowledge self-control; and in your self-control patience; and in your patience godliness;

Commentary

2 Peter 1:6 is a pivotal verse in Peter's exhortation to believers, detailing a crucial step in the ladder of Christian virtues. Following the foundational call to add virtue to faith (2 Peter 1:5), this verse focuses on cultivating self-control, perseverance, and devotion to God as essential components of spiritual maturity.

Context

This verse is part of a longer passage (2 Peter 1:3-11) where Peter outlines the divine resources available to believers and the corresponding human responsibility to diligently pursue spiritual growth. Peter emphasizes that God has given us "all things that pertain unto life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3), and through these, we can "be partakers of the divine nature" (2 Peter 1:4). The list of virtues, starting with faith, is not merely a collection of good traits but a progressive chain, where each quality builds upon and strengthens the one before it, leading to a fruitful and effective Christian life.

Key Themes

  • Progressive Spiritual Growth: Peter presents a clear pathway for believers to mature in their faith. This verse highlights the importance of active participation in developing Christ-like character, moving from knowledge to self-control, then to patience, and finally to godliness.
  • Self-Control (Temperance): The ability to master one's desires, impulses, and passions. This virtue is fundamental for a disciplined life that honors God and resists the temptations of the world.
  • Endurance (Patience): Not merely passive waiting, but active perseverance and steadfastness under trials, difficulties, and opposition. It is the quality that enables believers to remain faithful and hopeful through adversity.
  • Devotion to God (Godliness): A deep reverence and piety towards God that manifests in a life lived in accordance with His will. It encompasses right conduct, holy living, and a genuine pursuit of God's ways.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Greek word for "temperance" is enkrateia (ἐγκράτεια), which signifies self-mastery or self-control. It implies a strong inner discipline over one's appetites, emotions, and desires, enabling one to live soberly and righteously. This concept is also echoed as a fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:23.
  • "Patience" is derived from hupomonē (ὑπομονή), meaning steadfastness, endurance, or perseverance. It describes the ability to remain firm and constant, not giving up when faced with difficulties or suffering. It is a quality that is developed through trials, as James 1:3-4 explains.
  • "Godliness" comes from eusebeia (εὐσέβεια), denoting piety, reverence, or devotion to God. It refers to a practical holiness and a life lived in conformity to divine principles, stemming from a genuine relationship with God.

Practical Application

2 Peter 1:6 calls believers to an intentional and disciplined pursuit of spiritual excellence. It reminds us that while salvation is by grace through faith, growth in character requires our active participation and diligence. Developing temperance means consciously choosing to control our thoughts, words, and actions rather than being ruled by impulses. Cultivating patience equips us to face life's inevitable challenges with steadfastness, trusting in God's timing and purposes. Embracing godliness means living a life that consistently reflects our devotion to God, impacting every area of our existence. These virtues are not isolated but interconnected, leading to a fruitful life that is neither "barren nor unfruitful" (2 Peter 1:8).

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Cross-References

  • Romans 5:3 (17 votes)

    And not only [so], but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

  • Romans 5:4 (17 votes)

    And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

  • 2 Peter 1:3 (15 votes)

    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 10:36 (14 votes)

    For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

  • Luke 21:19 (13 votes)

    In your patience possess ye your souls.

  • Hebrews 12:1 (11 votes)

    ¶ Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

  • 1 Corinthians 9:25 (9 votes)

    And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.