2 Peter 1:5-9This second letter by the apostle Simon Peter contains many nuggets of wisdom. One of my favorite passages in this epistle (epistle is another word for letter) is 1:5-9. In these few verses, Peter challenges believers to grow and mature in their faith, becoming more and more like Christ. Though faith alone without works saves you (Eph. 2:8-9), God doesn't desire Christians to just become converted and then stay the same as they were before. His will is for Christians to become fruitful, mature, transformed individuals who bring God glory in all that they do and say. Let's look at the qualities Peter lists in this passage that Christians should strive to obtain.
Moral Excellence: This includes integrity, virtue, purity, goodness etc. This is someone who is above reproach in behavior and speech and chooses to do good over evil. **Do you cheat on homework, lie to your parents, etc?
Knowledge: This is someone who is wise and knows the truth. He/she has studied the Scriptures diligently and has a great understanding of what they say. **How much time have you spent examining God's Word and hiding it in your heart?
Self-Control: This is someone who is balanced and disciplined, showing restraint when needed. He/she isn't led astray by fleshly passions or lusts and isn't addicted to any substance. **Are you disciplined enough to know when to stop?
Perseverance: This is constancy, endurance, patience, and steadfastness. When circumstances change and trials occur, this person does not waver in his/her faith. **Do you remain firmly committed to Christ, no matter what happens?
godliness: A godly person lives with a fear of God, obeying His commands, displaying holiness, and imitating Christ. **Does your life reflect godly living?
Brotherly kindness: This is someone with love and compassion for the brethren. ** Is your attitude toward your brothers and sisters one of kindness and love, or do you criticize, judge, and get annoyed with them?
Love: This is the most important trait of all and includes a love for God and for everyone else. Without love, the rest of a Christian's works are useless (1 Cor. 13). **Are you fulfilling the two greatest commandments, which are to love God and others?
Verse 8 tells us that if we exhibit these qualities, we will be useful and fruitful. Maturity and fruitfulness are God's will for every Christian and should be our goal as well. On the other hand, verse 9 tells us that believers who fail to put on these qualities are blind. They were saved in order to bring God glory, show Christ to the rest of the world, and share the gospel. When believers fail to do this, they've missed the point.
I challenge you to focus on one of these qualities each week over the next 7 weeks. Think about specific ways you can display these qualities in your life and ask God to help you, because you can't produce these qualities on your own..you must rely on the work of the Holy Spirit!
