Simon Peter, having failed his Lord at a strategic time, lived to recover and become a powerful force for Christ and His church. In a thrilling letter to his brethren, those of “like precious faith,” he declares: “His divine power has given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that has called us to glory and virtue,” 2 Peter 1:3. The verses that follow provide us with the richest motivation to be loyal to the source of that “faith.”
- Faith
The foundation upon which all the following qualities rest is the “faith” that comes from “hearing” God’s word, Romans 10:17. Without that faith no one can be pleasing to God, Hebrews 11:6 and none of the other qualities can prosper. - Virtue
The word “virtue” is defined as “moral excellence; strength of character.” This is the means by which our “faith” is made known to the world. Without virtue, genuine faith cannot be seen/known by our associates. - Knowledge
This is literally a “seeking to know; inquiry.” In Matthew 5:6 we read, “Blessed are they which hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” Without this, faith is lost and replaced with opinion. “The entrance of your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple” Psalm 119:130. - Temperance
This term includes self-control that requires the ability to discern good from evil. It is a learned quality of controlling one’s appetites/passions and then putting into practice that which is learned by knowledge. The apostle Paul “kept” his body under control so that his efforts in preaching would not be compromised 1 Corinthians 6:12, 9:27. Temperance here is not “dabbling in wickedness, but not going to extremes.” It is having the will to say “no” to Satan and his devices. - Patience
Synonyms for this term include “endurance, steadfast and perseverance.” This quality is attained by having a goal for life, determining to reach that goal, and doing what it takes to achieve the goal. When pressed by an opponent, “patience” does not give up, does not quit until the goal is reached. Jesus told His disciples they would be tested and proved, even to the point of death, John 16. See also Romans 5:3, 1 Peter 1:3-9, and James 1:2-4.
So, possessing faith, virtue, knowledge, and self-control, we are steadfast though tempted, threatened, and rejected.
For part 2 of this epistle, check out Add to Your Faith (Part 2 of 2)