2 Peter 3:18
Verse
Context
Final Exhortations
17Therefore, beloved, since you already know these things, be on your guard so that you will not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure standing. 18But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But grow in grace - Increase in the image and favor of God; every grace and Divine influence which ye have received is a seed, a heavenly seed, which, if it be watered with the dew of heaven from above, will endlessly increase and multiply itself. He who continues to believe, love, and obey, will grow in grace, and continually increase in the knowledge of Jesus Christ, as his sacrifice, sanctifier, counsellor, preserver, and final Savior. The life of a Christian is a growth; he is at first born of God, and is a little child; becomes a young man, and a father in Christ. Every father was once an infant; and had he not grown, he would have never been a man. Those who content themselves with the grace they received when converted to God, are, at best, in a continual state of infancy: but we find, in the order of nature, that the infant that does not grow, and grow daily, too, is sickly and soon dies; so, in the order of grace, those who do not grow up into Jesus Christ are sickly, and will soon die, die to all sense and influence of heavenly things. There are many who boast of the grace of their conversion; persons who were never more than babes, and have long since lost even that grace, because they did not grow in it. Let him that readeth understand. To him - The Lord Jesus, be glory - all honor and excellency attributed, both now - in this present state, and for ever, εις ἡμεραν αιωνος, to the day of eternity - that in which death, and misery, and trial, and darkness, and change, and time itself, are to the righteous for ever at an end: it is eternity; and this eternity is one unalterable, interminable, unclouded, and unchangeable Day! Amen - So let it be! and so it shall be! Though this word is wanting in some reputable MSS., get it should be retained, as it has here more than usual authority in its support. Subscriptions to this epistle in the Versions: The end of the Second Epistle of Peter the apostle. - Syriac. The Second Epistle of Peter the apostle is ended. - Syriac Philoxenian. Nothing in the printed Vulgate. The end of the epistles of blessed Peter the apostle, the rock of the faith. - Arabic. The Second Epistle of Peter is ended; and glory be to God for ever and ever! - Aethiopic. Nothing in the Coptic. The end of the Second catholic Epistle of St. Peter. - Complutensian Polyglot. The end of the Second Epistle of St. Peter. - Bib. Lat., edit. antiq. Subscriptions in the Manuscripts; Of the second of Peter. - Codex Alexandrius, and Codex Vaticanus. Of the catholic epistle of Peter. - Codex Ephrem. The Second Epistle of the holy Apostle Peter. - Other MSS. We have now passed over all the canonical writings of Peter that are extant; and it is worthy of remark that, in no place of the two epistles already examined, nor in any of this apostle's sayings in any other parts of the sacred writings do we find any of the peculiar tenets of the Romish Church: not one word of his or the pope's supremacy; not one word of those who affect to be his successors; nothing of the infallibility claimed by those pretended successors; nothing of purgatory, penances, pilgrimages, auricular confession, power of the keys, indulgences, extreme unction, masses, and prayers for the dead; and not one word on the most essential doctrine of the Romish Church, transubstantiation. Now, as all these things have been considered by themselves most essential to the being of that Church; is it not strange that he, from whom they profess to derive all their power, authority, and influence, in spiritual and secular matters, should have said nothing of these most necessary things? Is it not a proof that they are all false and forged; that the holy apostle knew nothing of them; that they are no part of the doctrine of God; and, although they distinguish the Church of Rome, do not belong to the Church of Christ? It is no wonder that the rulers of this Church endeavor to keep the Scriptures from the common people; for, were they permitted to consult these, the imposture would be detected, and the solemn, destructive cheat at once exposed.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
grow--Not only do not "fall from" (Pe2 3:17), but grow onward: the true secret of not going backward. Eph 4:15, "Grow up into Him, the Head, Christ." grace and . . . knowledge of . . . Christ--"the grace and knowledge of Christ" [ALFORD rightly]: the grace of which Christ is the author, and the knowledge of which Christ is the object. for ever--Greek, "to the day of eternity": the day that has no end: "the day of the Lord," beginning with the Lord's coming. Next: 1 John Introduction
John Gill Bible Commentary
But grow in grace,.... In the gifts of grace, which, under a divine blessing, may be increased by using them: gifts neglected decrease, but stirred up and used, are improved and increase. And though men are to be thankful for their gifts, and be contented with them, yet they may lawfully desire more, and in the use of means seek an increase of them, which may be a means of preserving themselves, and others, from the error of the wicked. Moreover, by "grace" may be meant internal grace. The work of grace is gradual; it is like a grain of mustard seed, or like seed cast into the earth, which springs up, it is not known how, first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear; saints are first babes, and from children they grow to young men, and from young men to fathers. There is such a thing as growth in grace, in this sense; every grace, as to its act and exercise, is capable of growing and increasing; faith may grow exceedingly, hope abound, love increase, and patience have its perfect work, and saints may grow more humble, holy, and self-denying: this is indeed God's work, to cause them to grow, and it is owing to his grace; yet saint, should show a concern for this, and make use of means which God owns and blesses for this purpose, such as prayer, attending on the word, and looking over the promises of God, for an increase of faith; recollecting past experiences, and looking to the death and resurrection of Christ for the encouragement of hope, and to the love of God and Christ, for the stirring up of love to both, and to the saints; considering the sufferings of Christ, the desert of sin, and the glories of another world, to promote patience and self-denial, and the pattern of Christ, to excite to humility; though "grace" may also intend the Gospel, the knowledge of which is imperfect, and may be increased in the use of means, and which is a special preservative against error, a growth in which saints should be concerned for: and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ; of his person, office, and grace, than which nothing is more valuable, and is to be preferred to everything; it is the principal thing in grace, and is the beginning and pledge of eternal life, and will issue in it; for an increase of which, and a growth in it, the word and ordinances are designed; and nothing can be a greater security against error than an experimental growing knowledge of Christ. The Syriac version adds, "and of God the Father"; and so some copies read: to him be glory, both now, and for ever; or "to the day of eternity"; that is, to Christ, who is truly God, or otherwise such a doxology would not belong to him, be ascribed the glory of deity, of all divine perfections; the glory of all his offices and work as Mediator; the glory of man's salvation; and the glory of all that grace, and the growth of it, together with the knowledge of himself, which saints have from him; and that both in this world, and that which is to come. Amen; so be it. Next: 1 John Introduction
2 Peter 3:18
Final Exhortations
17Therefore, beloved, since you already know these things, be on your guard so that you will not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure standing. 18But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
That Dreadful Day No One Wants to Talk About
By David Wilkerson9.3K44:47HAB 2:4MAT 6:332PE 3:92PE 3:142PE 3:18In this sermon, the preacher highlights the current state of the world, emphasizing the vast disparities and suffering that exist. He challenges the notion that God wants believers to be rich and live in luxury, instead urging them to focus on holy conduct and godliness. The preacher emphasizes the need for the church to wake up from its spiritual slumber and conform to the image of Christ. He draws inspiration from the book of Habakkuk, reminding believers that they must live by faith in order to survive and overcome the challenges of the world.
(Titus - Part 19): The Grace of God I
By A.W. Tozer4.7K25:37Titus2PE 1:82PE 3:152PE 3:181JN 2:241JN 2:27In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the inability of the human race to rise to the teachings of great teachers and religions due to the inherent bad nature of human beings. However, the grace of God brings salvation and also provides the moral impulse within the heart to enable righteous living. The preacher highlights the significance of the word "pardon" and how it represents both a desire for forgiveness and a condemnation of wrongdoing. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of living a moral and virtuous life, growing constantly in righteousness and brotherly kindness, as taught by the grace of God.
(Biographies) Jonathan Edwards
By John Piper4.5K1:21:45MAT 6:332PE 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of journaling and note-taking as a means to sustain a sequence of thought and deepen one's understanding of God's word. He draws inspiration from the example of Jonathan Edwards and his 30 volumes of journals. The speaker also highlights the need to be single-minded in our occupation with spiritual things and to prioritize studying the Bible. He encourages believers to redeem their time and live with all their might, using the power of grace to overcome distractions and pursue a life of purpose and productivity.
Keys to Spiritual Growth - Part 1
By John MacArthur3.8K51:07EPH 3:192PE 3:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth as indicated in the Word of God. It highlights the three levels of spiritual growth: little children, young men, and fathers, focusing on knowing God intimately and deeply. The key to spiritual growth is to focus on giving God glory, understanding His fullness, and knowing Him in His glory, leading to a transformation into His image from one level of glory to the next.
(Genesis) Genesis 48:1-3
By J. Vernon McGee2.7K04:55GenesisGEN 28:13GEN 48:1GEN 48:4MAT 6:33HEB 11:212PE 3:18In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a young couple who came forward every Sunday seeking all that God had for them. However, they were expecting a sensational and momentary experience, rather than understanding the importance of growth in their faith. The preacher emphasizes the need to grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, and highlights the patience of God in allowing this growth to happen. The sermon then focuses on the story of Jacob, who, in his old age, reflects on his life and the faithfulness of God. Jacob's growth and spiritual journey are highlighted as he blesses his grandsons and worships leaning on his staff.
(Through the Bible) 1 Corinthians 1-2
By Chuck Smith2.7K1:17:58Through The Bible1CO 1:101CO 2:11CO 2:141CO 9:192CO 3:182PE 3:18In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of not lording over one another but serving one another in love. He introduces the concept of the natural man, the spiritual man, and the upcoming topic of the carnal man. The natural man is at a disadvantage because he cannot understand or receive the things of the Spirit. However, the preacher emphasizes that God reveals these spiritual things to those who love Him through the Holy Spirit. The sermon encourages listeners to allow God to work in their lives and grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Grace for Knowing God
By Bob Hoekstra1.7K1:02:47JHN 6:57JHN 14:10JHN 17:3GAL 2:20GAL 6:15EPH 1:7EPH 2:13PHP 3:8COL 1:272PE 1:22PE 3:18This sermon focuses on the theme of Grace for Knowing God, emphasizing the importance of developing a deep relationship with God through His grace. It highlights the concept of being in Christ and Christ being in us, leading to a transformative life lived by faith in the Son of God. The sermon encourages believers to seek a multiplied abundance of grace and peace through growing in the knowledge and intimacy of God and Jesus our Lord.
The Feast of the Lord
By C.H. Spurgeon1.6K39:32PSA 46:10ISA 40:31JHN 2:10ROM 7:241CO 2:91CO 13:122PE 3:18In this sermon, Charles Kelch discusses the concept of the feast of Satan and contrasts it with the feast that God has prepared for his people. He describes how Satan offers good wine at the beginning, but then provides something worse once people are intoxicated. Kelch emphasizes the need for rest and knowledge for the body and soul, especially for those who have had little instruction and are burdened with hard labor. He encourages believers to grow in grace as they age, so that when they reach the end of their lives, they can offer the best wine to God. Kelch concludes by expressing his gratitude for the privilege of being in God's embrace forever and the anticipation of being in heaven, as Jesus promised.
The Progressive and Corporate Aspects of Sanctification
By John Murray1.2K54:16SanctificationGAL 5:22EPH 1:17EPH 4:13PHP 1:9COL 2:19COL 3:142PE 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of corporate interaction and intercommunication among believers. He refers to Ephesians 4:30, which speaks about coming together in unity and growing to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. The speaker also mentions John 5:26, where Jesus is described as having the power of life in Himself and giving authority to the Son. The sermon highlights the need for believers to grow in knowledge and love, reflecting the image of the Lord and increasing in the knowledge of God.
The Much More of Grace
By Bob Hoekstra1.1K1:03:27EPH 2:7EPH 3:8HEB 4:161PE 4:102PE 3:18This sermon emphasizes the much more grace of God, highlighting the richness and unfathomable depths of God's grace. It warns against misusing grace as a license for sin and encourages believers to be good stewards of the manifold grace of God. The importance of coming boldly to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and find grace in times of need is emphasized, along with the call to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
(Romans) Justification by Faith
By Brian Brodersen90242:10ROM 1:18ROM 3:212PE 3:18In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of Romans, specifically chapter 3, verse 21. The speaker explains that Paul, speaking on behalf of God, lays out his arguments for the condemnation of the entire human race. He emphasizes that even those who may not be involved in outwardly wicked actions are still condemned because of the desires of their hearts. The speaker also highlights the pressure faced by church leaders and the opposition they receive when they take a stand on the word of God instead of following current theological trends. The core message of the sermon is the grace of God, which the devil hates and fights against. The speaker encourages Christians to understand and embrace God's grace in order to experience the fullness of the Christian life.
Christian Growth
By Roger Ellsworth81131:05GrowthMAT 6:33LUK 24:25JHN 3:3HEB 2:161PE 1:231PE 2:22PE 3:18In this sermon, the pastor discusses the desire for growth in the Christian faith. He emphasizes that believers are not saved to simply consume religious teachings, but to serve and advance the kingdom of Jesus Christ. He encourages those who may not be able to be as active in church ministry to devote more time to prayer. The pastor also compares physical birth to spiritual birth, highlighting the manifestation of new life in a believer's actions and lifestyle. He concludes by acknowledging the vastness and incomprehensibility of salvation, stating that even with unlimited time and resources, it would be impossible to fully grasp its glory and wonder.
The Church in Revival
By Don Courville45029:17RevivalSpiritual GrowthISA 53:5LUK 2:14ROM 5:81CO 3:1EPH 3:21COL 2:101TI 1:172PE 3:181JN 1:7REV 21:23Don Courville emphasizes the necessity of a personal walk with God for true revival in the church, urging believers to rely on the Holy Spirit rather than human efforts or organizational structures. He reflects on the importance of humility, transparency, and spiritual growth, highlighting that true revival comes from a deep, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Courville shares testimonies of revival in Africa, illustrating how the Holy Spirit can transform lives when believers unite in Christ. He encourages the congregation to seek spiritual growth by glorifying God in all aspects of life, as this is the key to experiencing true revival.
Week of Meetings 04 Unity of God's Family
By John W. Bramhall39152:53MAT 6:33JHN 14:9EPH 1:42PE 3:181JN 2:12In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of witnessing many souls being saved in a certain region of New York State. However, he faced difficulties when trying to teach them the word of God. He emphasizes the importance of abiding in the truth and having the word of God abide in our hearts. The speaker also highlights the spiritual strength of young men who have overcome the wicked one and encourages believers to prioritize the word of God over worldly satisfaction.
Northgate Anniversary Sunday 02
By Robert F. Adcock38423:44MAT 7:1EPH 2:82PE 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of continuing to grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. He encourages believers not to become complacent or stagnant in their Christian walk, but to make progress every day. The speaker reminds the audience that they are representatives of Jesus Christ and have the responsibility to share the gospel with others. He also reflects on the passing of time and the memories of those who have gone before, emphasizing the hope of being with the Lord in eternity.
Hearing From God
By George Warnock37845:41HearingEXO 33:14EZK 28:14MAT 6:11MRK 1:1JHN 1:11CO 10:132PE 3:18In this sermon, the preacher addresses the deep distress and longing of the heart that arises when one feels distant from God despite seeking Him diligently. The preacher emphasizes the role of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit in preparing believers for a victorious and triumphant life. The sermon highlights the importance of ministering in the Spirit and not seeking acceptance from others, but rather rejoicing in the fact that one is not accepted by the world. The preacher also emphasizes the need for believers to go home empty, recognizing that they don't always know what they truly need and should rely on God's provision for each day. The sermon encourages a balance between knowledge and grace, and emphasizes the need to lay down one's life and be jealous for God's glory.
Spiritual Balance (Dutch)
By George Verwer1921:16:43DutchMAT 6:33ACT 8:25ACT 20:321TH 5:12HEB 13:172PE 3:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of finding balance in various aspects of life. They emphasize the need for discipline and planning, while also allowing room for God to guide and bring something special. The speaker also addresses the balance between zeal and wisdom, highlighting the difference between reckless faith and discernment. They emphasize the importance of using both faith and common sense in decision-making. Additionally, the speaker talks about the balance between intellectual and emotional aspects of Christianity, emphasizing the need for both theology and emotional experiences. They also mention the importance of freedom and allowing room for failure in spiritual development.
Wise Words for Living (English to Dutch)
By George Verwer1301:20:23DutchACT 4:31ACT 8:4ACT 8:25ACT 20:321TH 5:122PE 3:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of finding balance in various areas of life. He emphasizes the need to plan ahead while also leaving room for God to guide and bring something special. The speaker also highlights the balance between zeal and wisdom, reckless faith and discernment. He mentions the balance between crisis experiences and spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of both emotional recommitment to God and steady spiritual development. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the need for balance in other areas of life, such as organization, family dynamics, and church ministry.
Knowing God
By Joy Dawson491:26:33Knowing GodIntimacy With GodJER 9:23DAN 11:32HOS 4:1HOS 6:6JHN 17:32CO 3:18PHP 3:10COL 1:92PE 1:22PE 3:18Joy Dawson passionately speaks on the vital importance of truly knowing God, emphasizing that our understanding of His character shapes our relationship with Him and our ability to evangelize. She warns against distorted views of God that can hinder our spiritual growth and calls for a deep, personal pursuit of His presence. Dawson encourages believers to seek God diligently, as true knowledge of Him leads to a fulfilling relationship and empowers us to make Him known to others. She highlights that knowing God is not merely about acquiring information but about experiencing His love and character intimately. Ultimately, she asserts that our effectiveness in ministry is directly proportional to our knowledge of God.
2 Peter 3:18
By John Gill1Spiritual GrowthKnowledge of ChristROM 12:22CO 9:8EPH 4:15PHP 1:9COL 1:101TH 5:16HEB 5:12JAS 1:41PE 2:22PE 3:18John Gill emphasizes the importance of growing in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, highlighting that spiritual growth is a gradual process akin to the growth of a seed. He explains that while believers should be thankful for their gifts, they are encouraged to seek an increase in grace through prayer, the Word, and reflection on God's promises. Gill notes that growth in grace leads to increased faith, hope, love, and humility, which are essential for preserving oneself and others from error. He concludes with a doxology, attributing glory to Christ for His divine attributes and the grace bestowed upon believers both now and forever.
To the Christian Readers of the Oberlin Evangelist
By Charles Finney1Spiritual GrowthSanctificationJHN 17:17ROM 12:12CO 3:18EPH 4:15PHP 1:6COL 3:101TH 5:23HEB 12:141PE 1:152PE 3:18Charles Finney addresses the Christian readers of the Oberlin Evangelist, emphasizing the need for the sanctification of believers alongside the conversion of sinners. He reflects on his past focus on evangelism and acknowledges the neglect of spiritual growth within the Church, realizing that converts require ongoing support for their sanctification. Finney expresses his commitment to teaching the high and pure doctrines of grace to elevate the standard of holiness among Christians. He encourages readers to seek a deeper understanding of Christ, not just as a Savior but as a sanctifying presence in their lives. Finney concludes with a plea for prayer and support as he embarks on this new course of lectures aimed at spiritual edification.
Grow in Grace
By C.H. Spurgeon1Spiritual GrowthKnowledge of ChristPSA 42:1JHN 17:3ROM 5:5EPH 4:15PHP 1:9COL 1:10HEB 10:22JAS 4:101PE 2:22PE 3:18C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of growing in all aspects of grace, particularly in faith, love, and humility. He encourages believers to deepen their faith in God's promises, expand their love in practical ways, and cultivate humility by recognizing their own limitations. Spurgeon highlights the importance of knowing Jesus more intimately, asserting that true knowledge of Christ leads to eternal life and greater happiness. He warns that a lack of desire to know Christ better indicates a lack of genuine love for Him. Ultimately, he calls for a continuous pursuit of a closer relationship with Jesus, as this is essential for spiritual growth.
Retrocession a Prerequisite of Sanctification
By Daniel Steele0PRO 4:181CO 9:24PHP 3:12HEB 6:12PE 3:18Daniel Steele discusses the theory of successive partial sanctifications, highlighting the misconception of implying backslidings after every cleansing and the confusion between entire sanctification and being reclaimed from spiritual decline. He emphasizes that true inward purity is grasped by live, growing, and intensely earnest Christians, discouraging the preaching of Christian perfection to those who have retrograded or are indifferent to spiritual advancement.
Life of a Christian Man. Scriptural Arguments Exhorting to It
By John Calvin0LEV 19:1PSA 15:1PSA 24:3ROM 5:41CO 15:58GAL 6:9EPH 4:22PHP 3:12HEB 12:11PE 1:162PE 3:18John Calvin preaches about the importance of aligning the life of believers with the righteousness of God through regeneration, repentance, and daily progress in piety and righteousness. He emphasizes the need to avoid extremes such as false Christians denying Christ by their works or despairing due to imperfection, while urging believers to strive for holiness and righteousness as a reflection of God's image. Calvin highlights the significance of dedicating and devoting ourselves to righteousness as a response to God's adoption and Christ's example, guiding us towards a well-regulated life rooted in Scripture's exhortations and the pursuit of righteousness.
Growth
By J.C. Ryle0Spiritual GrowthDiligence in FaithPSA 35:27JHN 15:2EPH 4:15PHP 1:9COL 1:101TH 4:102TH 1:3JAS 4:61PE 2:22PE 3:18J.C. Ryle emphasizes the necessity of spiritual growth in the life of a true Christian, urging believers to examine their progress in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. He highlights that growth in grace is not about increasing one's justification but rather about deepening one's faith, love, and holiness. Ryle warns against complacency and encourages believers to actively pursue growth through diligent use of private and public means of grace, self-examination, and communion with Christ. He outlines the signs of growth, such as increased humility, faith, and zeal for doing good, and stresses that neglecting growth can lead to spiritual stagnation. Ultimately, Ryle calls Christians to strive for continual growth, reminding them that their spiritual health is vital for their own joy and for the benefit of others.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But grow in grace - Increase in the image and favor of God; every grace and Divine influence which ye have received is a seed, a heavenly seed, which, if it be watered with the dew of heaven from above, will endlessly increase and multiply itself. He who continues to believe, love, and obey, will grow in grace, and continually increase in the knowledge of Jesus Christ, as his sacrifice, sanctifier, counsellor, preserver, and final Savior. The life of a Christian is a growth; he is at first born of God, and is a little child; becomes a young man, and a father in Christ. Every father was once an infant; and had he not grown, he would have never been a man. Those who content themselves with the grace they received when converted to God, are, at best, in a continual state of infancy: but we find, in the order of nature, that the infant that does not grow, and grow daily, too, is sickly and soon dies; so, in the order of grace, those who do not grow up into Jesus Christ are sickly, and will soon die, die to all sense and influence of heavenly things. There are many who boast of the grace of their conversion; persons who were never more than babes, and have long since lost even that grace, because they did not grow in it. Let him that readeth understand. To him - The Lord Jesus, be glory - all honor and excellency attributed, both now - in this present state, and for ever, εις ἡμεραν αιωνος, to the day of eternity - that in which death, and misery, and trial, and darkness, and change, and time itself, are to the righteous for ever at an end: it is eternity; and this eternity is one unalterable, interminable, unclouded, and unchangeable Day! Amen - So let it be! and so it shall be! Though this word is wanting in some reputable MSS., get it should be retained, as it has here more than usual authority in its support. Subscriptions to this epistle in the Versions: The end of the Second Epistle of Peter the apostle. - Syriac. The Second Epistle of Peter the apostle is ended. - Syriac Philoxenian. Nothing in the printed Vulgate. The end of the epistles of blessed Peter the apostle, the rock of the faith. - Arabic. The Second Epistle of Peter is ended; and glory be to God for ever and ever! - Aethiopic. Nothing in the Coptic. The end of the Second catholic Epistle of St. Peter. - Complutensian Polyglot. The end of the Second Epistle of St. Peter. - Bib. Lat., edit. antiq. Subscriptions in the Manuscripts; Of the second of Peter. - Codex Alexandrius, and Codex Vaticanus. Of the catholic epistle of Peter. - Codex Ephrem. The Second Epistle of the holy Apostle Peter. - Other MSS. We have now passed over all the canonical writings of Peter that are extant; and it is worthy of remark that, in no place of the two epistles already examined, nor in any of this apostle's sayings in any other parts of the sacred writings do we find any of the peculiar tenets of the Romish Church: not one word of his or the pope's supremacy; not one word of those who affect to be his successors; nothing of the infallibility claimed by those pretended successors; nothing of purgatory, penances, pilgrimages, auricular confession, power of the keys, indulgences, extreme unction, masses, and prayers for the dead; and not one word on the most essential doctrine of the Romish Church, transubstantiation. Now, as all these things have been considered by themselves most essential to the being of that Church; is it not strange that he, from whom they profess to derive all their power, authority, and influence, in spiritual and secular matters, should have said nothing of these most necessary things? Is it not a proof that they are all false and forged; that the holy apostle knew nothing of them; that they are no part of the doctrine of God; and, although they distinguish the Church of Rome, do not belong to the Church of Christ? It is no wonder that the rulers of this Church endeavor to keep the Scriptures from the common people; for, were they permitted to consult these, the imposture would be detected, and the solemn, destructive cheat at once exposed.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
grow--Not only do not "fall from" (Pe2 3:17), but grow onward: the true secret of not going backward. Eph 4:15, "Grow up into Him, the Head, Christ." grace and . . . knowledge of . . . Christ--"the grace and knowledge of Christ" [ALFORD rightly]: the grace of which Christ is the author, and the knowledge of which Christ is the object. for ever--Greek, "to the day of eternity": the day that has no end: "the day of the Lord," beginning with the Lord's coming. Next: 1 John Introduction
John Gill Bible Commentary
But grow in grace,.... In the gifts of grace, which, under a divine blessing, may be increased by using them: gifts neglected decrease, but stirred up and used, are improved and increase. And though men are to be thankful for their gifts, and be contented with them, yet they may lawfully desire more, and in the use of means seek an increase of them, which may be a means of preserving themselves, and others, from the error of the wicked. Moreover, by "grace" may be meant internal grace. The work of grace is gradual; it is like a grain of mustard seed, or like seed cast into the earth, which springs up, it is not known how, first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear; saints are first babes, and from children they grow to young men, and from young men to fathers. There is such a thing as growth in grace, in this sense; every grace, as to its act and exercise, is capable of growing and increasing; faith may grow exceedingly, hope abound, love increase, and patience have its perfect work, and saints may grow more humble, holy, and self-denying: this is indeed God's work, to cause them to grow, and it is owing to his grace; yet saint, should show a concern for this, and make use of means which God owns and blesses for this purpose, such as prayer, attending on the word, and looking over the promises of God, for an increase of faith; recollecting past experiences, and looking to the death and resurrection of Christ for the encouragement of hope, and to the love of God and Christ, for the stirring up of love to both, and to the saints; considering the sufferings of Christ, the desert of sin, and the glories of another world, to promote patience and self-denial, and the pattern of Christ, to excite to humility; though "grace" may also intend the Gospel, the knowledge of which is imperfect, and may be increased in the use of means, and which is a special preservative against error, a growth in which saints should be concerned for: and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ; of his person, office, and grace, than which nothing is more valuable, and is to be preferred to everything; it is the principal thing in grace, and is the beginning and pledge of eternal life, and will issue in it; for an increase of which, and a growth in it, the word and ordinances are designed; and nothing can be a greater security against error than an experimental growing knowledge of Christ. The Syriac version adds, "and of God the Father"; and so some copies read: to him be glory, both now, and for ever; or "to the day of eternity"; that is, to Christ, who is truly God, or otherwise such a doxology would not belong to him, be ascribed the glory of deity, of all divine perfections; the glory of all his offices and work as Mediator; the glory of man's salvation; and the glory of all that grace, and the growth of it, together with the knowledge of himself, which saints have from him; and that both in this world, and that which is to come. Amen; so be it. Next: 1 John Introduction