2 Peter 1:3
Verse
Context
Partakers of the Divine Nature
2Grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.4Through these He has given us His precious and magnificent promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, now that you have escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
Sermons
John Piper
William MacDonald
Hans R. Waldvogel
Bob Bruton
David Roper
Al Whittinghill
Ron BaileySummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
As his Divine power - His power, which no power can resist, because it is Divine - that which properly belongs to the infinite Godhead. Hath given unto us - Δεδωρημενης· Hath endowed us with the gifts; or, hath gifted us, as Dr. Macknight translates it, who observes that it refers to the gifts which the Holy Spirit communicated to the apostles, to enable them to bring men to life and godliness; which were, 1. A complete knowledge of the doctrines of the Gospel. 2. Power to preach and defend their doctrines in suitable language, which their adversaries were not able to gainsay or resist. 3. Wisdom to direct them how to behave in all cases, where and when to labor; and the matter suitable to all different cases, and every variety of persons. 4. Miraculous powers, so that on all proper and necessary occasions they could work miracles for the confirmation of their doctrines and mission. By life and godliness we may understand, 1. a godly life; or, 2. eternal life as the end, and godliness the way to it; or, 3. what was essentially necessary for the present life, food, raiment, etc., and what was requisite for the life to come. As they were in a suffering state, and most probably many of them strangers in those places, one can scarcely say that they had all things that pertained to life; and yet so had God worked in their behalf, that none of them perished, either through lack of food or raiment. And as to what was necessary for godliness, they had that from the Gospel ministry, which it appears was still continued among them, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit which were not withdrawn; and what was farther necessary in the way of personal caution, comfort, and instruction, was supplied by means of these two epistles. That hath called us to glory and virtue - To virtue or courage as the means; and glory - the kingdom of heaven, as the end. This is the way in which these words are commonly understood, and this sense is plain enough, but the construction is harsh. Others have translated δια δοξης και αρετης, by his glorious benignity, a Hebraism for δια της ενδοξου αρετης· and read the whole verse thus: God by his own power hath bestowed on us every thing necessary for a happy life and godliness, having called us to the knowledge of himself, by his own infinite goodness. It is certain that the word αρετη, which we translate virtue or courage, is used, Pe1 2:9, to express the perfection of the Divine nature: That ye may show forth τας αρετας, the virtues or Perfections, of him who hath called you from darkness into his marvellous light. But there is a various reading here which is of considerable importance, and which, from the authorities by which it is supported, appears to be genuine: Του καλεσαντος ἡμας ιδια δοξῃ και αρετῃ, through the knowledge of him who hath called us by his own glory and power, or by his own glorious power. This is the reading of AC, several others; and, in effect, of the Coptic, Armenian, Syriac, Ethiopic, Vulgate, Cyril, Cassiodorus, etc.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
According as, &c.--Seeing that [ALFORD]. "As He hath given us ALL things (needful) for life and godliness, (so) do you give us ALL diligence," &c. The oil and flame are given wholly of grace by God, and "taken" by believers: their part henceforth is to "trim their lamps" (compare Pe2 1:3-4 with Pe2 1:5, &c.). life and godliness--Spiritual life must exist first before there can be true godliness. Knowledge of God experimentally is the first step to life (Joh 17:3). The child must have vital breath. first, and then cry to, and walk in the ways of, his father. It is not by godliness that we obtain life, but by life, godliness. To life stands opposed corruption; to godliness, lust (Pe2 1:4). called us-- (Pe2 1:10); "calling" (Pe1 2:9). to glory and virtue--rather, "through (His) glory." Thus English Version reads as one oldest manuscript. But other oldest manuscripts and Vulgate read, "By His own (peculiar) glory and virtue"; being the explanation of "His divine power"; glory and moral excellency (the same attribute is given to God in Pe1 2:9, "praises," literally, "virtues") characterize God's "power." "Virtue," the standing word in heathen ethics, is found only once in Paul (Phi 4:8), and in Peter in a distinct sense from its classic usage; it (in the heathen sense) is a term too low and earthly for expressing the gifts of the Spirit [TRENCH, Greek Synonyms of the New Testament].
John Gill Bible Commentary
According as his divine power,.... Meaning either the power of God the Father, to whom belong eternal power and Godhead; and he is sometimes called by the name of power itself; see Mat 26:64 being all powerful and mighty; or rather the power of Christ, since he is the next and immediate antecedent to this relative; and who, as he has the fulness of the Godhead in him, is almighty, and can do all things; and is "El-shaddai", God all-sufficient, and can communicate all things whatsoever he pleases, and does, as follows: for he hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness; referring not so much to a temporal life, though he gives that and preserves it, and furnishes with all the mercies and comforts of it; and which come to us, from him, in a covenant way, as his left hand blessings, and in great love; but rather a spiritual life, which he is the author and maintainer of, all the joys, pleasures, blessings, and supports of it, being given by him; as also eternal life, for that, and everything appertaining to it, are from him; he gives a meetness for it, which is his own grace, and a right unto it, which is his own righteousness; and he has power to give that itself to as many as the Father has given him, and he does give it to them; and likewise all things belonging to "godliness", or internal religion; and which is the means of eternal life, and leads on to it, and is connected with it, and has the promise both of this life, and of that which is to come; and everything relating to it, or is in it, or it consists of, is from Christ: the internal graces of the Spirit, as faith, hope, and love, which, when in exercise, are the principal parts of powerful godliness, are the gifts of Christ, are received out of his fulness, and of which he is the author and finisher; and he is the donor of all the fresh supplies of grace to maintain the inward power of religion, and to assist in the external exercise of it; all which things are given through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue. The call here spoken of is not a bare outward call, by the ministry of the word, but an internal, special, and powerful one, which springs from the grace, and is according to the purpose of God, and is inseparably connected with justification and glorification; and is either of God the Father, who, as the God of all grace, calls to eternal glory by Christ; or rather of Christ himself, who calls by his Spirit and grace; and hence the saints are sometimes styled, the called of Jesus Christ, Rom 1:6 what they are called unto by him is, "glory and virtue"; by the former may be meant, the glorious state of the saints in the other world, and so answers to "life", eternal life, in the preceding clause; and by the latter, grace, and the spiritual blessings of grace here, and which answers to "godliness" in the said clause; for the saints are called both to grace and glory, and to the one, in order to the other. Some render it, "by glory and virtue"; and some copies, as the Alexandrian and others, and so the Vulgate Latin version, read, "by his own glory and virtue"; that is, by his glorious power, which makes the call as effectual, and is as illustrious a specimen of the glory of his power, as was the call of Lazarus out of the grave; unless the Gospel should rather be intended by glory and virtue, which is glorious in itself, and the power of God unto salvation, and is the means by which persons are called to the communion of Christ, and the obtaining of his glory: so then this phrase, "him that hath called us to glory and virtue", is a periphrasis of Christ, through a "knowledge" of whom, and which is not notional and speculative, but spiritual, experimental, fiducial, and practical, or along with such knowledge all the above things are given; for as God, in giving Christ, gives all things along with him, so the Spirit of Christ, which is a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him, when he makes him known in the glory of his person, grace, and righteousness, also makes known the several things which are freely given of God and Christ: and this is what, among other things, makes the knowledge of Christ preferable to all other knowledge, or anything else.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:3-11 An explanation of all that God has given us in Christ (1:3-4) forms the basis for an urgent exhortation to grow in the knowledge of Christ (1:5-11). 1:3 By his divine power, God has (literally His divine power has): The name of God does not occur in the Greek text; Peter could be referring to the divine power of “Jesus our Lord” (1:2).
2 Peter 1:3
Partakers of the Divine Nature
2Grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.4Through these He has given us His precious and magnificent promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, now that you have escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Battling Lust
By John Piper4.7K22:32LustPSA 84:11MAT 6:33ROM 8:281CO 10:13PHP 4:19JAS 1:172PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation of knowledge and allegiance to God and Christ. He believes that by immersing oneself in the fullness of biblical revelation, individuals can overcome the dangers of lust and find true freedom. The preacher references 2 Peter 1:3, which states that God's divine power grants everything pertaining to life and godliness through true knowledge of Him. He also shares a powerful story of a man who had to amputate his own leg to save his life, highlighting the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to prioritize their relationship with God and seek His guidance in overcoming sinful desires.
All Spiritual Blessings
By William MacDonald3.6K38:08Spiritual BlessingsDEU 7:13PSA 119:89MAT 6:33JHN 15:13EPH 1:32PE 1:3REV 22:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses the contrast between earthly material blessings and spiritual blessings in heavenly places. He refers to Deuteronomy chapter 7, where God promises to bless the nation of Israel if they obey Him. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being members of the body of Christ and shares a personal experience of encountering fellow believers. He also highlights the significance of having the word of God as a spiritual blessing and mentions that it will be a topic of conversation in heaven. The sermon concludes with a prayer expressing gratitude for the spiritual blessings received and a request for guidance and protection.
Become Transparent Through Conviction
By Hans R. Waldvogel2.1K26:38ConvictionJHN 17:3ROM 6:17ROM 6:22HEB 10:38HEB 13:52PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of humbling oneself before God and acknowledging the truth of His word. He highlights the need for God's reproof and rebuke to bring about a transformation in our hearts. The preacher also discusses the dangers of false revivals that focus on signs and wonders rather than the true message of the Gospel. He encourages believers to seek a genuine relationship with Jesus and to continually strive to know Him better. The sermon references the Apostle Paul's attitude of forgetting the past and pressing forward towards Christ, as well as the story of David's realization of his own corruption and need for deliverance.
To the Elect Lady
By Bob Bruton1.7K21:37Elect LadyGEN 2:17PSA 119:10PSA 119:30ISA 8:22TI 3:162PE 1:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not just talking about our faith, but also living it out in our actions. He refers to the commandment to walk in truth, which he believes goes all the way back to Adam in the Garden of Eden. The speaker rejoices when he finds some of the elect lady's children walking in truth, highlighting that even the best leaders may not have perfect success in teaching others. He also emphasizes the importance of love and pleads with others to obey God's commandments. The sermon concludes with the reminder that it is not enough to talk about our faith, but we must also walk in truth.
The Alternative to Truth
By David Roper1.6K37:26Purpose2PE 1:3In this sermon, the speaker, Peter, emphasizes the importance of the Word of God in our lives. He explains that the apostles were responsible for preaching the good news and recording it in the Scriptures so that we can have a relationship with the Lord. Peter uses three terrifying illustrations from the Old Testament to highlight the judgment that awaits those who do not follow the teachings of the apostles. He urges believers to not only possess the Word of God, but to allow it to master their lives and dispel the darkness. The Word of God is described as the only source of lasting value and guidance in times of difficulty and uncertainty.
How to Deal With Personal Besetting Sin
By Al Whittinghill1.4K1:06:31Besetting Sin2PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Job and how he became a showcase for the universe. The preacher emphasizes that Job didn't even realize that all the angels were watching him. Job wished that his words were written down in a book, and the preacher highlights that every idle word is recorded and written down by God. The preacher also mentions that we, as believers, are also being watched by the world, spirits, and angels. The sermon encourages listeners to have faith, receive God's victory, and allow the word of God to bring power into their lives.
Propitiation
By Ron Bailey1.3K1:00:06PropitiationGEN 3:15GEN 3:24MAT 6:332PE 1:31JN 2:1REV 21:4REV 22:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Jacob and his encounter with his brother Esau. Jacob, known for his cunning and strategic thinking, divides his family into two groups to protect them from any harm that Esau may bring. The speaker emphasizes the use of various words and illustrations in the Bible to convey deeper meanings and associations. The sermon also touches on the parable of the prodigal son, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and confessing one's sins to God. Overall, the message emphasizes God's constant desire for repentance and forgiveness.
(Ephesians) a True Theology Produces a True Doxology
By Jeff Noblit1.2K1:05:15EphesiansPSA 95:1PSA 103:1PSA 150:6MAT 6:33EPH 1:3COL 3:162PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the incredible love and sacrifice of God the Father in sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to save the world. The preacher marvels at the concept of the incarnation, where God became flesh and dwelt among us. The sermon then focuses on the spiritual blessings that believers have received through Christ, with the goal of increasing praise, reverence, service, and obedience to God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having true knowledge and understanding of God's salvation in order to offer genuine praise and worship.
The Sufficiency of God for Holy Living
By Jeff Christianson1.2K36:00Holy LivingJHN 14:262CO 3:3COL 1:272PE 1:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life that reflects the truth and love of Jesus Christ. He encourages believers to be a shining light and a source of salt in the world, so that others may be drawn to Christianity. The speaker highlights that God alone can provide the resources needed to live a godly life, and that the New Covenant allows believers to rely on God's grace rather than their own performance. He emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is at work in the lives of believers, writing letters of Christ on their hearts and enabling them to be living testimonies of Jesus to the world.
Labor to Enter Into That Rest
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.1K24:31RestPSA 81:13PSA 119:11LUK 16:29JHN 5:39JHN 6:63HEB 4:122PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of hearing and heeding the word of God. He highlights how the word of God is alive, powerful, and transformative, likening it to a two-edged sword that discerns the thoughts and intents of the heart. The preacher expresses concern over the changing of the Bible in some churches, stating that it is still relevant and necessary in a world flooded with pornography. He encourages believers to diligently study and meditate on the word of God, allowing it to create substance within them and transform their lives. Additionally, the preacher emphasizes the privilege believers have to boldly approach the throne of grace and obtain mercy through Jesus Christ.
How to Grow Spiritually - Part 3
By Roy Daniel79435:19Spiritual GrowthFaith and ObedienceISA 53:6JHN 7:38JHN 10:10ROM 6:41CO 2:122CO 5:21GAL 5:1EPH 3:8COL 2:32PE 1:3Roy Daniel emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience for spiritual growth, contrasting the misguided pursuits of the Corinthian and Galatian churches. He explains that true spiritual life comes from simply looking to Jesus in faith, rather than seeking complicated rules or experiences. Daniel illustrates that salvation is straightforward and accessible, highlighting the abundant life available through Christ. He encourages believers to recognize the riches they have in Jesus, which are freely given and not earned through works. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of these spiritual treasures to foster growth and a closer relationship with God.
Will Ye Hear the Lord?
By Darin Chappell72135:47ObedienceEZK 2:3MAT 6:33ROM 1:17ROM 10:142TI 4:12PE 1:31JN 1:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following God's commands and teachings. They acknowledge that there may not be anything new in the message, as these instructions have been given for thousands of years. The sermon focuses on three principles: the purity of the church, the purity of individual Christians, and the need to spread the gospel to others. The speaker references 2 Timothy 4:1-3, where Paul charges Timothy to preach the word and teach the truth. The sermon also highlights the danger of taking God's relationship for granted and acting inappropriately. Additionally, the speaker mentions the importance of relationships in revealing the character of both individuals and nations.
(Radical Jesus) 2 Radical Jesus
By Glenn Meldrum66926:02Radical2PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the revolutionary power of God's wisdom in a fallen world. He warns against degrading the teachings of Jesus into mere moral lessons devoid of supernatural power. The preacher urges believers to embrace the radical truth of Jesus, which has the power to turn the world upside down. He emphasizes the importance of living out the truth of God's word, and warns against false prophets and teachers who distort the word of God. The preacher encourages listeners to strive to build their lives upon the firm foundation of the word of God, and promises to present practical applications of biblical truths that can revolutionize their lives.
A Review of Israel's Rebellions
By Chuck Smith66025:05IsraelDEU 9:6DEU 9:11PSA 116:12EPH 4:15COL 1:10COL 2:202PE 1:3In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith reviews the rebellions of the Israelites as they journeyed through the wilderness. He emphasizes the importance of walking in the ways of God and fearing Him. Pastor Chuck explains that through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are able to live according to God's commandments and will. He also highlights the significance of loving God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind, as well as loving our neighbors as ourselves. The sermon draws parallels between the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land and the Christian's journey in the life of the Spirit.
Christ, Our Foundation
By Edwin H. Waldvogel62835:47ChristPSA 107:20ISA 42:2MAT 3:17MAT 6:332TI 3:16HEB 4:122PE 1:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation in our faith. He highlights Jesus Christ as the cornerstone and how he identified with sinners through his baptism. The speaker also discusses the role of the Holy Spirit in teaching and guiding believers. He encourages the audience to be diligent Bible students and to live out God's word in their lives.
The Pastor's Wife and Revival
By Doris Hodges5221:16:22Revival2PE 1:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having certain virtues in our lives to bear fruit in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. The scripture warns that lacking these virtues makes us blind and forgetful of what God has done for us. The speaker reflects on the tendency to get busy and lose sight of God's work in our lives. They also address the issue of making judgments and how they personally have been guilty of it. The sermon encourages self-examination and allowing God to search and reveal our true standing before Him.
(Radical Jesus) 30 Radical Prayer
By Glenn Meldrum34324:41PrayerISA 55:2MIC 6:8MAT 6:33MAT 10:36JHN 13:232PE 1:3REV 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a close relationship with God. He compares it to the intimacy between Abraham and God, as well as the Apostle John leaning on Jesus' bosom. The speaker highlights that many Christians lack God's heart for the world because they have not gotten close enough to Him. He emphasizes that knowing and loving God requires investing one's life and being willing to give up everything. The sermon also addresses the need for a genuine relationship with Jesus, as well as the consequences of living a spiritually bankrupt life. The speaker quotes from Isaiah 55, urging listeners to seek God and not waste their efforts on things that do not satisfy. The sermon concludes with a powerful statement from George Whitfield, highlighting the importance of preaching about a real and felt Christ.
Marriage and the Mystery of Christ and His Church
By Michael Flowers15117:10MarriageGEN 2:24PRO 27:17MRK 10:91CO 12:12HEB 10:242PE 1:3REV 19:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of marriage as a sacred union between a man and a woman. He refers to the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus quotes Genesis 2, affirming that God created humans as male and female. The preacher highlights the relationship between Eric and Joanna Blossom, who started attending morning prayer together and eventually became a couple. He draws a parallel between their relationship and the relationship between Christ and the church, stating that Christian marriage can preach the good news of Jesus' sacrifice. The preacher concludes by offering a prayer for God's blessings and protection on the couple.
How to Live the Impossible Life
By Major Ian Thomas101:13:01Living in ChristSpiritual TransformationPSA 116:1JHN 10:10JHN 11:41ROM 5:12ROM 6:42CO 5:14GAL 2:20EPH 1:131PE 1:32PE 1:3Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the concept of living the impossible life through the indwelling of Christ, explaining that true life comes from being spiritually alive in Him. He discusses the significance of Christ's death and resurrection, highlighting that believers are not only forgiven but also empowered to live a life that reflects God's nature. Thomas illustrates that salvation is not merely about forgiveness but about sharing in the life of Christ, which transforms the believer's existence. He encourages Christians to recognize their own bankruptcy and to allow Christ to live through them, thus experiencing the fullness of life intended by God. The sermon concludes with a call to surrender to Christ, who is the source of true strength and victory.
Sanctification Up to Knowledge
By Daniel Steele0ACT 10:34ROM 2:13ROM 8:291CO 2:92CO 3:18EPH 3:19PHP 1:61TH 5:232PE 1:3Daniel Steele preaches about the immovable rock of faith in Jesus Christ as the foundation of salvation, emphasizing that knowledge is not a condition for salvation but a knowledge of Christ is implied in saving faith. He discusses the Wesleyan theory of entire sanctification, highlighting the need for self-knowledge and faith for purity to be attained. Steele explains the continuous need for sanctification as believers grow in knowledge and judgment, leading to a more perfect manifestation of inner purity in their outer lives. He delves into the surpassing love of Christ that goes beyond human comprehension and self-knowledge, emphasizing God's power to do exceedingly abundantly above all that believers can ask or think.
Righteousness
By Smith Wigglesworth0FaithRighteousnessMRK 11:24LUK 1:45JHN 14:10ROM 8:1PHP 3:14HEB 1:9JAS 1:252PE 1:12PE 1:31JN 5:18Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the importance of righteousness in the life of a believer, stating that just as Christ loved righteousness and hated iniquity, we too must embody these qualities. He highlights that through faith, we can access a divine life filled with limitless power and resources, allowing us to overcome the devil's influence. Wigglesworth illustrates this through biblical examples, such as Abraham's faith and the healing testimonies of individuals who believed in God's promises. He encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ, which grants them access to God's righteousness and the ability to manifest His power in their lives. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper faith that leads to greater exploits for God, urging the congregation to press on toward their divine calling.
The Message of 2 Peter
By G. Campbell Morgan0Anticipation of Christ's ComingGrace and Responsibility2PE 1:3G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the message of 2 Peter, focusing on the responsibilities that come with grace. He explains that believers are endowed with divine power and resources for life and godliness, which necessitate a diligent response to avoid spiritual perils. The sermon highlights the importance of remembrance and anticipation of Christ's coming, urging individuals and the church to live in a way that reflects their faith and readiness for His return. Morgan warns against the dangers of denying Christ and His second coming, which can lead to spiritual blindness and moral decay. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to grow in grace and to actively cooperate with God's power in developing character.
The Witness of the Spirit
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual AwarenessIntuitive Knowledge of GodPSA 46:10JHN 10:27JHN 14:17ROM 8:161CO 2:12GAL 4:6EPH 1:17HEB 11:12PE 1:31JN 5:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true knowledge of God comes from spiritual experience rather than intellectual reasoning. He explains that this awareness is intuitive and deeply rooted in the consciousness of the believer, which transcends mere thought. Tozer critiques Descartes' philosophical approach, asserting that self-awareness and knowledge of God precede rational thought. The inward witness of the Spirit provides a profound understanding of God that is beyond words, resulting from faith and obedience to Scripture. This experience is the essence of true religion, highlighting the importance of a personal relationship with God.
Filled With the Spirit
By David Wilkerson0Holy SpiritSpiritual EmpowermentJHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:11GAL 5:22EPH 3:202PE 1:3David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of truly understanding and experiencing the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He reflects on his own journey of faith, questioning whether he has fully embraced the Spirit's transformative power or merely accepted it as a doctrine. Wilkerson illustrates this with a parable about a farmer who lived in poverty despite having a gold-rich farm, paralleling how many Christians may live unaware of the spiritual wealth available to them through the Holy Spirit. He urges believers to seek a deeper relationship with the Spirit to unlock the fullness of life and godliness that God has promised.
Not "Ought" but "Are"
By Theodore Epp0Completeness in ChristSpiritual GrowthJHN 1:16ROM 8:321CO 1:302CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 1:3PHP 4:19COL 2:10COL 3:32PE 1:3Theodore Epp emphasizes that believers are already complete in Christ, as stated in Colossians 2:10, and that this completeness is not something to strive for but a reality from the moment of salvation. He warns against teachings that suggest Christians need additional experiences or ordinances to attain fullness in their faith, asserting that all spiritual blessings are already given in Christ. Epp encourages believers to grow in their knowledge of Him while recognizing that they lack nothing essential for life and godliness. The sermon highlights the importance of appropriating what is already possessed in Christ and living by faith.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
As his Divine power - His power, which no power can resist, because it is Divine - that which properly belongs to the infinite Godhead. Hath given unto us - Δεδωρημενης· Hath endowed us with the gifts; or, hath gifted us, as Dr. Macknight translates it, who observes that it refers to the gifts which the Holy Spirit communicated to the apostles, to enable them to bring men to life and godliness; which were, 1. A complete knowledge of the doctrines of the Gospel. 2. Power to preach and defend their doctrines in suitable language, which their adversaries were not able to gainsay or resist. 3. Wisdom to direct them how to behave in all cases, where and when to labor; and the matter suitable to all different cases, and every variety of persons. 4. Miraculous powers, so that on all proper and necessary occasions they could work miracles for the confirmation of their doctrines and mission. By life and godliness we may understand, 1. a godly life; or, 2. eternal life as the end, and godliness the way to it; or, 3. what was essentially necessary for the present life, food, raiment, etc., and what was requisite for the life to come. As they were in a suffering state, and most probably many of them strangers in those places, one can scarcely say that they had all things that pertained to life; and yet so had God worked in their behalf, that none of them perished, either through lack of food or raiment. And as to what was necessary for godliness, they had that from the Gospel ministry, which it appears was still continued among them, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit which were not withdrawn; and what was farther necessary in the way of personal caution, comfort, and instruction, was supplied by means of these two epistles. That hath called us to glory and virtue - To virtue or courage as the means; and glory - the kingdom of heaven, as the end. This is the way in which these words are commonly understood, and this sense is plain enough, but the construction is harsh. Others have translated δια δοξης και αρετης, by his glorious benignity, a Hebraism for δια της ενδοξου αρετης· and read the whole verse thus: God by his own power hath bestowed on us every thing necessary for a happy life and godliness, having called us to the knowledge of himself, by his own infinite goodness. It is certain that the word αρετη, which we translate virtue or courage, is used, Pe1 2:9, to express the perfection of the Divine nature: That ye may show forth τας αρετας, the virtues or Perfections, of him who hath called you from darkness into his marvellous light. But there is a various reading here which is of considerable importance, and which, from the authorities by which it is supported, appears to be genuine: Του καλεσαντος ἡμας ιδια δοξῃ και αρετῃ, through the knowledge of him who hath called us by his own glory and power, or by his own glorious power. This is the reading of AC, several others; and, in effect, of the Coptic, Armenian, Syriac, Ethiopic, Vulgate, Cyril, Cassiodorus, etc.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
According as, &c.--Seeing that [ALFORD]. "As He hath given us ALL things (needful) for life and godliness, (so) do you give us ALL diligence," &c. The oil and flame are given wholly of grace by God, and "taken" by believers: their part henceforth is to "trim their lamps" (compare Pe2 1:3-4 with Pe2 1:5, &c.). life and godliness--Spiritual life must exist first before there can be true godliness. Knowledge of God experimentally is the first step to life (Joh 17:3). The child must have vital breath. first, and then cry to, and walk in the ways of, his father. It is not by godliness that we obtain life, but by life, godliness. To life stands opposed corruption; to godliness, lust (Pe2 1:4). called us-- (Pe2 1:10); "calling" (Pe1 2:9). to glory and virtue--rather, "through (His) glory." Thus English Version reads as one oldest manuscript. But other oldest manuscripts and Vulgate read, "By His own (peculiar) glory and virtue"; being the explanation of "His divine power"; glory and moral excellency (the same attribute is given to God in Pe1 2:9, "praises," literally, "virtues") characterize God's "power." "Virtue," the standing word in heathen ethics, is found only once in Paul (Phi 4:8), and in Peter in a distinct sense from its classic usage; it (in the heathen sense) is a term too low and earthly for expressing the gifts of the Spirit [TRENCH, Greek Synonyms of the New Testament].
John Gill Bible Commentary
According as his divine power,.... Meaning either the power of God the Father, to whom belong eternal power and Godhead; and he is sometimes called by the name of power itself; see Mat 26:64 being all powerful and mighty; or rather the power of Christ, since he is the next and immediate antecedent to this relative; and who, as he has the fulness of the Godhead in him, is almighty, and can do all things; and is "El-shaddai", God all-sufficient, and can communicate all things whatsoever he pleases, and does, as follows: for he hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness; referring not so much to a temporal life, though he gives that and preserves it, and furnishes with all the mercies and comforts of it; and which come to us, from him, in a covenant way, as his left hand blessings, and in great love; but rather a spiritual life, which he is the author and maintainer of, all the joys, pleasures, blessings, and supports of it, being given by him; as also eternal life, for that, and everything appertaining to it, are from him; he gives a meetness for it, which is his own grace, and a right unto it, which is his own righteousness; and he has power to give that itself to as many as the Father has given him, and he does give it to them; and likewise all things belonging to "godliness", or internal religion; and which is the means of eternal life, and leads on to it, and is connected with it, and has the promise both of this life, and of that which is to come; and everything relating to it, or is in it, or it consists of, is from Christ: the internal graces of the Spirit, as faith, hope, and love, which, when in exercise, are the principal parts of powerful godliness, are the gifts of Christ, are received out of his fulness, and of which he is the author and finisher; and he is the donor of all the fresh supplies of grace to maintain the inward power of religion, and to assist in the external exercise of it; all which things are given through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue. The call here spoken of is not a bare outward call, by the ministry of the word, but an internal, special, and powerful one, which springs from the grace, and is according to the purpose of God, and is inseparably connected with justification and glorification; and is either of God the Father, who, as the God of all grace, calls to eternal glory by Christ; or rather of Christ himself, who calls by his Spirit and grace; and hence the saints are sometimes styled, the called of Jesus Christ, Rom 1:6 what they are called unto by him is, "glory and virtue"; by the former may be meant, the glorious state of the saints in the other world, and so answers to "life", eternal life, in the preceding clause; and by the latter, grace, and the spiritual blessings of grace here, and which answers to "godliness" in the said clause; for the saints are called both to grace and glory, and to the one, in order to the other. Some render it, "by glory and virtue"; and some copies, as the Alexandrian and others, and so the Vulgate Latin version, read, "by his own glory and virtue"; that is, by his glorious power, which makes the call as effectual, and is as illustrious a specimen of the glory of his power, as was the call of Lazarus out of the grave; unless the Gospel should rather be intended by glory and virtue, which is glorious in itself, and the power of God unto salvation, and is the means by which persons are called to the communion of Christ, and the obtaining of his glory: so then this phrase, "him that hath called us to glory and virtue", is a periphrasis of Christ, through a "knowledge" of whom, and which is not notional and speculative, but spiritual, experimental, fiducial, and practical, or along with such knowledge all the above things are given; for as God, in giving Christ, gives all things along with him, so the Spirit of Christ, which is a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him, when he makes him known in the glory of his person, grace, and righteousness, also makes known the several things which are freely given of God and Christ: and this is what, among other things, makes the knowledge of Christ preferable to all other knowledge, or anything else.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:3-11 An explanation of all that God has given us in Christ (1:3-4) forms the basis for an urgent exhortation to grow in the knowledge of Christ (1:5-11). 1:3 By his divine power, God has (literally His divine power has): The name of God does not occur in the Greek text; Peter could be referring to the divine power of “Jesus our Lord” (1:2).