2 Peter 3:18 – “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”
Extended Explanation
In this last verse of his letter, Peter closes with a strong encouragement and a clear purpose. He tells believers to grow — not to stay where they are, but to continue moving forward in two specific areas: grace and knowledge.
To grow in grace means to keep living in God’s undeserved kindness and learning how to show that kindness to others. It’s about growing in humility, faith, love, and obedience.
To grow in the knowledge of Jesus means not only knowing facts about Him but growing in a deeper relationship with Him — knowing His character, His teaching, and how to walk closely with Him every day.
Peter ends by reminding his readers that Jesus deserves all glory — not just now, but forever. Everything he has written points back to Jesus and the greatness of who He is.
Historical Context
Peter’s readers were surrounded by false teachers, scoffers, and people twisting God’s truth. He had spent much of this letter warning them to stay alert and live holy lives while they waited for Jesus’ return.
Now, Peter finishes by pointing them to what really matters: Keep growing. Keep learning. Keep living in God’s grace.
This was Peter’s final written message before his death. He wanted to leave the church with a lasting call to spiritual growth and worship.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches several key truths:
- Christian life is not static. We are called to keep growing and maturing.
- Grace and knowledge go together. True knowledge of Jesus leads to a life shaped by grace.
- Jesus deserves all glory. Our lives, our growth, and all of history are meant to point back to Him.
- This growth will continue forever. Our relationship with Jesus is not just for this life but for eternity.
Literary Analysis
Peter uses a simple but strong command: grow. He doesn’t give a list of religious rules but calls believers to a living, growing relationship with Jesus.
He ties together grace and knowledge — both are essential. Knowing the truth without grace can lead to pride. Living by grace without knowledge can lead to confusion. Peter wants believers to grow in both.
The closing words “To him be glory both now and forever!” remind us that everything in this letter, and in our lives, is ultimately about honoring Jesus.
Cross-References
- John 17:3 – Jesus defines eternal life as knowing God and Jesus Christ.
- Colossians 1:9-10 – A prayer that believers would grow in knowledge and live worthy lives.
- 2 Peter 1:2-3 – Peter earlier spoke of grace and knowledge as key to godly living.
- Ephesians 4:15 – A call to grow up in every way into Christ.
- Philippians 1:6 – God will carry on the good work He began in believers until completion.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a clear, simple call: Don’t stay where you are in your faith. Keep growing.
It’s easy to get distracted, discouraged, or stuck. But Peter reminds us that every day is an opportunity to grow in grace — to live more like Jesus, show more love, extend more forgiveness — and to grow in knowledge — to know God’s Word better and walk more closely with Him.
This verse calls us to a lifelong, joyful pursuit of Jesus.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in this invitation to grow. He doesn’t just save us and leave us. He invites us to keep learning, to keep receiving His grace, and to become more like Him.
God wants His children to flourish, not to stand still. His love is patient, guiding us step by step as we grow in grace and truth.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is at the very heart of this verse. He is the source of grace, the one we are called to know, and the one who deserves all glory.
Peter’s final words point everything back to Jesus:
- John 1:14 – Jesus is full of grace and truth.
- Hebrews 12:2 – Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith.
- Revelation 5:12-13 – In the end, all creation will give glory to Jesus forever.
Peter is urging believers to fix their eyes on Jesus, grow in Him, and live for His glory.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean for you personally to grow in grace and knowledge?
- In what ways have you seen growth in your faith over time?
- How can you continue to grow in your relationship with Jesus?
- Why is it important to remember that Jesus deserves all glory, both now and forever?
- How can you encourage others around you to keep growing in their faith?