What does 2 Peter 1:6 mean?

And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 2 Peter 1:6

Explanation

2 Peter 1:6 is part of a larger passage where the Apostle Peter discusses virtues that Christians should strive to cultivate in their lives. In this specific verse, Peter is constructing a sequence of virtues that build upon each other, much like a ladder of personal development. The verse mentions temperance (self-control), patience (endurance), and godliness (piety towards God), and emphasizes that each virtue is to be added to the one before. This suggests that Christian growth is a process that involves expanding upon simpler virtues to achieve greater ones, eventually leading to a more divine character and closeness to God.

Historical Context

2 Peter is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Peter and is thought to have been written between A.D. 60 and 68. The epistle addresses various churches experiencing false teachings and moral laxity. During this time, the early Christian community faced internal disputes about doctrine and behavior. Peter’s instructions reflect the need for a moral compass against the backdrop of Roman culture, which was often at odds with Christian values.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse underscores the concept of sanctification, the process by which a believer is made holy through the work of the Holy Spirit. It shows a progression in the Christian life that moves from faith to love, with each virtue being a step towards holiness and divine nature. Different theological perspectives might emphasize the role of divine grace in this process, while others may focus on the individual’s responsibility to cultivate these virtues.

Practical Applications

The verse provides a blueprint for character development for Christians. The progressive nature suggests that developing virtues is an ongoing process requiring diligence and commitment. Applying this in daily life might involve practicing restraint and self-control in temperance, persevering through trials with patience, and seeking a deeper relationship with God to foster godliness.

Cross-References

• Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”
• James 1:4: “But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”
• 1 Timothy 4:7-8: “But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek of this verse are:

• “temperance” (ἐγκράτεια – enkrateia): meaning self-control, especially over one’s desires and appetites.
• “patience” (ὑπομονή – hupomonē): the capacity to hold out or bear up in the face of difficulty.
• “godliness” (εὐσέβεια – eusebeia): meaning piety or reverence towards God.

Analyzing these original terms emphasizes the internal and spiritual discipline that the verse promotes.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing Christianity with other ancient religions, one can find parallels in the emphasis on virtues. For example, in Stoicism, a Hellenistic philosophy, the progression of virtues and self-mastery are central themes. However, most ancient systems place virtue within the context of human achievement, whereas in Christianity, virtues are often seen in relation to divine grace and relationship with God.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology supports the idea that virtues and character strengths can be developed over time, aligning with the verse’s promotion of personal growth. Certain therapeutic approaches, like cognitive-behavioral therapy, might even echo the process of adding to one’s virtues as a method for self-improvement and mental health.

Commentaries

Commentators offer various insights:

• Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of adding to faith to prevent it from being barren or unfruitful.
• John Wesley notes that the virtues listed must go together, each building on the other.
• The Pulpit Commentary discusses how the Greek stoics also had a ladder of virtues but lacked the Christian element of divine support and the ultimate aim of love.
• Commentators like Albert Barnes explore the importance of the order of virtues, noting that temperance leads to patience, which sets the stage for godliness.