2 Peter 1:5 – For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;
Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Peter is giving a clear and practical challenge. He has just finished telling his readers about God’s incredible promises and how He has given them everything they need to live a godly life. Now, he is saying: Because of all this, don’t just sit still. Do something with it.
He tells believers to make every effort—meaning, don’t be passive. Growth in the Christian life requires intentional action.
Peter begins a list here that builds step by step. The first thing to add to faith is goodness—a moral excellence, living in a way that reflects God’s character.
Then to goodness, believers are to add knowledge—not just head knowledge, but understanding God’s ways and how to live wisely in light of who He is.
Peter isn’t saying believers can earn God’s love or salvation by doing these things. He’s saying that, because they already have faith and have been given everything they need, they should now actively grow and develop in their walk with God.
Historical Context
Peter wrote this letter knowing that many Christians were facing confusion and false teachings. Some false teachers were saying that godly living didn’t really matter. Others were twisting grace to mean that people could live however they wanted.
Peter is fighting against this mindset. He wants believers to understand that real faith is active, not passive. It doesn’t stop at believing but keeps growing in character and knowledge.
Theological Implications
This verse shows that:
- Faith is the starting point, not the finish line. Once a person comes to faith in Jesus, they are called to grow and mature.
- Christian growth requires effort. God provides the power, but believers are responsible for responding and actively pursuing godly living.
- Growth is progressive. It builds one quality upon another, starting with faith and moving outward into goodness, knowledge, self-control, and more (as Peter continues in the following verses).
Literary Analysis
Peter uses a progression style here—each virtue builds upon the previous one. The phrase make every effort is an action phrase, urging urgency and dedication.
The words add to your faith in the original language imply supplementing or furnishing something, like adding strong beams to a house. Faith is the foundation, but goodness and knowledge are what make the house livable and beautiful.
Peter’s list is deliberate. He starts with faith, then immediately points to goodness (moral character) and knowledge (understanding). Both are crucial for a healthy Christian life.
Biblical Cross-References
- James 2:17 – “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
- Philippians 2:12-13 – “Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”
- Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
- 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 – Paul speaks about disciplining himself like an athlete to live for God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that spiritual growth doesn’t happen by accident. It’s not enough to say, “I believe in Jesus,” and then live however you want. Faith is real when it leads to action—when you actively pursue goodness and grow in knowledge of God.
This verse encourages believers to be intentional about their walk with God. It means making choices every day that align with God’s character and seeking to know Him better.
It also tells us that growth takes effort. It’s a partnership—God provides the power and grace, but you have to lean in and cooperate.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown here in that He doesn’t just save people and leave them as they are. He invites them to grow, mature, and flourish. He wants His children to experience the joy of becoming more like Him.
This verse shows that God’s love is not a distant love—it’s a love that wants what’s best for His people. And what’s best is a life shaped by goodness, wisdom, and purpose.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This call to action is rooted in Jesus. He is the one who:
- Gives us faith (Hebrews 12:2 – “Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith”).
- Is our example of goodness (Acts 10:38 – “He went around doing good”).
- Is the source of knowledge of God (John 14:9 – “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father”).
The motivation to make every effort comes from what Jesus has already done and the relationship believers now have with Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you see the connection between faith and action in your own life?
- What are some specific ways you can add goodness to your faith this week?
- How can you grow in your knowledge of God beyond simply knowing facts?
- What areas of your life require intentional effort to grow spiritually?
- How does knowing that God has already provided everything you need encourage you to make every effort?