2 Peter 1:6 – And to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;
Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Peter continues the list of qualities that believers are supposed to add to their faith. He’s teaching that real faith leads to a growing, changing life. It’s not enough to stop at knowing the truth—you need to live it out.
After knowledge, Peter says to add self-control. This means learning to rule over your own desires and actions instead of letting them rule over you.
To self-control, Peter says to add perseverance—the ability to keep going when life is hard, without giving up.
And to perseverance, believers should add godliness. This means living in a way that reflects God’s character—living with respect, reverence, and obedience toward God in everyday life.
Peter is showing that the Christian life is a process of growth. Each step builds on the last, leading believers to become more like God in their character.
Historical Context
Peter wrote this letter to Christians who were surrounded by temptation and false teachers. Some people were saying that how you live didn’t really matter—as long as you had “faith,” you could do whatever you wanted.
Peter strongly disagreed. He wanted believers to understand that true faith shows up in changed behavior. He knew that without qualities like self-control, perseverance, and godliness, believers would be vulnerable to falling away or being led astray.
This verse was part of his call to live differently in a world full of selfishness and sin.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches us that:
- Knowledge isn’t enough. Knowing about God and truth is important, but it must lead to self-control and godly living.
- Spiritual growth is ongoing. Each virtue supports the next. A believer who is growing in knowledge will need self-control. Self-control requires perseverance. Perseverance leads to godliness.
- Character matters to God. Faith isn’t just belief; it is expressed in how a person lives.
The Christian life is a journey of becoming more and more like God in character, and that journey requires intentional effort and dependence on God’s strength.
Literary Analysis
Peter’s list is written in a step-by-step pattern, with each quality connected to the next:
- Knowledge → Self-control → Perseverance → Godliness
Each word carries deep meaning:
- Self-control – The ability to master one’s desires and actions.
- Perseverance – Steadfastness under pressure; the ability to keep going.
- Godliness – A life that honors and reflects God’s nature.
This structure builds momentum, showing that Christian growth is not random but purposeful and progressive.
Biblical Cross-References
- Galatians 5:22-23 – Lists self-control as part of the fruit of the Spirit.
- James 1:12 – “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial.”
- 1 Timothy 4:7-8 – “Train yourself to be godly.”
- Hebrews 12:1-2 – Encourages believers to run the race with perseverance, keeping their eyes on Jesus.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a clear call to active, intentional growth. It’s easy to say, “I believe in Jesus,” but Peter says that faith should lead to action—to real change in how you live, how you treat others, and how you handle life’s challenges.
Self-control is a challenge in a world that encourages people to follow their feelings and desires. Perseverance is needed when life is hard, and giving up feels easier. Godliness is often overlooked, but it matters deeply to God.
This verse reminds believers that following Jesus is a lifelong journey of learning, growing, and becoming more like Him.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in this verse through the invitation to grow. He doesn’t leave His people stuck in their old ways. Instead, He calls them to something better—a life marked by self-control, perseverance, and godliness.
God’s love isn’t just about saving people from punishment; it’s about shaping them into the people they were meant to be. He wants His children to live lives that reflect His goodness and grace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate example of these virtues:
- Self-control – He resisted temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11).
- Perseverance – He endured suffering, rejection, and the cross (Hebrews 12:2-3).
- Godliness – His entire life reflected the character of God (John 14:9).
Peter’s call to grow in these qualities is ultimately a call to become more like Jesus.
Other Relevant Scriptures:
- Romans 8:29 – “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son.”
- 1 Peter 2:21 – “Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.”
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Where in your life do you struggle most with self-control?
- What helps you to persevere when life gets difficult?
- How would you define godliness in your own words?
- Why do you think Peter emphasizes that believers should make every effort to grow in these qualities?
- What specific step can you take this week to grow in one of these areas?