2 Peter 1:1-9 | Make Every Effort to Grow in Godliness

Peter teaches that Christian godliness begins not with self-improvement but with Christ’s righteousness covering us. Because believers are declared righteous, innocent, and pure in Christ, they can pursue practical holiness from a new identity rather than from guilt. Yet growth is not automatic: Christians must “make every effort” to develop virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. This growth is achievable because God has already given believers everything necessary for life and godliness through his power, promises, Spirit, Word, and church. Far from being restrictive, obedience frees Christians from the corruption and slavery of sinful desire in this world