This passage, written by Peter, was to the churches scattered throughout Asia. He knew his death was imminent, and therefore wanted to instruct the Christians to pursue Christ’s virtues. The scripture begins with the instruction of “diligence”. This word shows the passion Peter had to teach believers to have Christ’s virtues. Diligence means careful and persistent effort. This was important and essential to the Christian life.
The beginning of the virtues is faith, which is mandatory for a relationship with Jesus. Peter instructs believers to add to their faith the following elements: knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and most of all, LOVE. If we lack any of the virtues, we are a distorted representation of God. Representing God creates a responsibility for us to continue to become more Christ-like through the virtues listed in this passage, above all, which is LOVE.
As you carefully consider this topic, please answer the following questions.
- Why do you think Peter was so passionate about these virtues for the believer that he used the word, diligence?
- Do you think a teacher can appropriately represent Christ without the virtues in II Timothy 1 :5-8? Explain your answer.
- What quality do you feel needs improvement in your walk with Christ?
Comments are closed