The Foundation

The Foundation

Seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust (2 Peter 1:3-4).

Peter has written to us about the foundation for living the Christian life. That foundation is knowing Jesus Christ. It is not just knowing about Him; it is having the true knowledge of Christ and His divine power. For he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him (Hebrews 11:6b).  

Therefore, Peter provides a list of virtues to add to our faith that, if employed, provide the means to the true knowledge of Christ.

Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:5-8).

Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble; for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you (2 Peter 1:10-11).

If you want to make your call and election sure, then put off worldly lusts and put on Christ. Utilize the means He has provided. Embrace His promises by fatih. Don’t go at this half-heartedly. Peter used the words diligence and diligent for a reason. The flesh is anything but diligent. 

So then, brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh— for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God (Romans 8:12-14).

Heavenly Father, thank You for making a way for us to know You better. Forgive us when we fail to use the means You have provided. Give us grace as we seek to know You better. Finish the work You have begun in us. Let our lives reflect Your glory for You are worthy of all praise and honor. Amen.