2 Peter 1:3

Berean Standard Bible

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.

King James Bible

According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

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2 Peter 1:3, in the NIV translation, states, “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” This verse forms the opening of the main body of 2 Peter, a letter traditionally attributed to the apostle Peter, written to encourage believers to grow in faith and resist false teachings. Likely composed in the late first century CE (ca. 80–90 CE, though some argue for an earlier date), the epistle addresses a Christian community facing internal challenges from false teachers and external pressures in a Greco-Roman context. To fully grasp the significance of 2 Peter 1:3, we must explore its historical, theological, and literary dimensions, as well as its implications for both the original audience and contemporary readers.

The historical context of 2 Peter is shaped by the challenges faced by early Christians, possibly in Asia Minor, as they navigated their identity in a pluralistic and often hostile Greco-Roman world. The letter suggests a time when the apostolic generation was passing (2 Peter 1:14), and false teachers were introducing destructive heresies, likely related to moral laxity and skepticism about Christ’s return (2 Peter 2:1–3; 3:3–4). Peter writes to affirm the truth of the apostolic message and urge believers to grow in godliness, grounding their faith in God’s provision and promises. The verse comes after a greeting (2 Peter 1:1–2) that emphasizes the recipients’ faith and knowledge, setting the stage for an exhortation to spiritual maturity. The Greco-Roman cultural backdrop, with its emphasis on virtue and philosophical ideals, also informs the language of “godly life” and “glory and goodness,” which resonate with both Jewish and Hellenistic concepts of moral excellence.

The verse begins with “His divine power,” referring to God’s sovereign and creative authority. The Greek term for “divine power” (theios dynamis) underscores God’s transcendent ability, distinct from human effort, to accomplish His purposes. This power is the same force that created the world (cf. Genesis 1:1; Hebrews 1:3) and raised Jesus from the dead (Ephesians 1:19–20), now directed toward enabling believers to live godly lives. The phrase “has given us” (perfect tense in Greek, dedōrēmenēs) indicates a completed action with ongoing results, emphasizing that God’s provision is already fully available. The “us” includes all believers, reflecting the communal nature of salvation and the shared responsibility to live out their faith.

The statement “everything we need for a godly life” is a bold declaration of sufficiency. The Greek term for “godly life” (zōēn kai eusebeian) combines the ideas of life and piety, suggesting a holistic existence marked by devotion to God and ethical conduct. In a Greco-Roman context, “piety” (eusebeia) was a valued virtue, connoting reverence for the divine and moral integrity. For Peter’s audience, this phrase would counter the false teachers’ distortions, which may have promoted licentiousness (2 Peter 2:2, 18–19) or dismissed the need for moral effort. Instead, Peter affirms that God equips believers with all necessary resources—spiritual, moral, and practical—to live in a way that honors Him, negating any excuse for spiritual complacency.

The means of this provision is “through our knowledge of him who called us.” The Greek word for “knowledge” (epignōsis) implies a deep, personal, and relational understanding, not merely intellectual assent. This knowledge is of “him who called us,” referring to God (or possibly Christ, given the ambiguity of the pronoun), whose call to salvation is an act of divine initiative (cf. 1 Peter 2:9). This calling is rooted in God’s “own glory and goodness.” The term “glory” (doxa) points to God’s majestic splendor and authority, while “goodness” (aretē) denotes moral excellence or virtue, a term that would resonate with Hellenistic readers familiar with philosophical ideals. Together, these attributes highlight God’s character as the basis for His call and the believers’ transformation, contrasting with the corrupt desires promoted by false teachers (2 Peter 2:10).

Theologically, 2 Peter 1:3 is a profound statement about divine provision and human responsibility. It affirms that God’s power is the source of all that believers need for godliness, emphasizing grace as the foundation of Christian living. The “new birth” implied in a godly life (cf. 1 Peter 1:3) is empowered by God, yet the verse sets the stage for the exhortation in verses 5–7 to “make every effort” to grow in virtues, suggesting a synergy between divine enablement and human response. The focus on “knowledge” underscores the importance of a personal relationship with God, through which believers access His resources. This knowledge counters the “destructive heresies” of false teachers (2 Peter 2:1), grounding faith in the truth of God’s revelation. The verse also reflects a Trinitarian undertone: God’s power, Christ’s calling (if “him” refers to Jesus), and the Spirit’s role in enabling godliness (implied in the virtues of 2 Peter 1:5–7).

Literarily, 2 Peter 1:3 serves as a foundational statement for the epistle, introducing themes of divine provision, spiritual growth, and perseverance in truth. Its position after the greeting establishes the theological basis for the practical exhortations that follow (2 Peter 1:5–11). The verse’s language is rich and purposeful, blending Jewish and Hellenistic terms to appeal to a diverse audience. The emphasis on “everything we need” creates a tone of assurance, countering the uncertainty caused by false teachings and external pressures. The reference to God’s “glory and goodness” elevates the discourse, inviting readers to aspire to a life that reflects divine character. The verse also sets up a contrast with the false teachers’ corruption (2 Peter 2), highlighting the moral and spiritual superiority of God’s provision.

For the original audience, 2 Peter 1:3 would have been a source of encouragement and challenge. Facing false teachings that undermined Christian ethics and eschatology, these believers needed reassurance that God had equipped them to live faithfully. The affirmation of divine power and provision countered the allure of false teachers who may have promoted freedom through license (2 Peter 2:19). The emphasis on knowledge would encourage them to deepen their understanding of God through the apostolic testimony (2 Peter 1:16–21), resisting deceptive claims. The verse also called them to active faith, urging them to draw on God’s resources to grow in godliness despite their challenges as “exiles” in a hostile world.

For contemporary readers, 2 Peter 1:3 remains profoundly relevant. The declaration that God has provided “everything we need” offers hope in a world marked by spiritual confusion, moral relativism, and competing ideologies. It challenges believers to trust in God’s sufficiency, whether facing personal struggles, societal pressures, or false teachings within or outside the church. The emphasis on a “godly life” calls for holistic faith that integrates belief and behavior, countering the temptation to compartmentalize spirituality. The role of “knowledge” invites ongoing growth in relationship with God through Scripture, prayer, and community, guarding against shallow or distorted versions of faith.

The verse also speaks to the tension between grace and effort. While God provides all that is needed, the call to a godly life implies responsibility to act on that provision, as developed in the virtues of 2 Peter 1:5–7 (faith, goodness, knowledge, etc.). This balance challenges modern Christians to avoid both legalism (relying on works) and passivity (neglecting effort). The reference to God’s “glory and goodness” inspires believers to reflect His character in a world that often values self-interest over virtue. In a practical sense, the verse encourages reliance on God’s resources—such as the Holy Spirit, Scripture, and the church—to navigate challenges like ethical dilemmas, cultural hostility, or personal doubt.

In conclusion, 2 Peter 1:3 is a theologically rich and pastorally encouraging verse that affirms God’s provision for a godly life. Historically, it addressed a community facing false teachings and persecution, grounding their faith in divine power and truth. Theologically, it highlights the sufficiency of God’s grace, the importance of relational knowledge, and the call to reflect God’s character. Literarily, it sets a hopeful and urgent tone for the epistle, urging believers to grow in faith. For the original audience, it offered assurance and direction, while for contemporary readers, it challenges us to trust God’s provision, deepen our knowledge of Him, and live out a faith that mirrors His glory and goodness. By proclaiming that God has given all we need, 2 Peter 1:3 invites believers to embrace their calling with confidence and purpose.

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Grace and peace to you, beloved of the Lord, you who are chosen by the Father, redeemed by the blood of the Son, and sanctified by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. I address you as fellow heirs of the promises of God, as citizens of a kingdom that is unshakable, and as living stones in the house which God is building throughout the nations.

We live in a time when many in the Church walk in spiritual weakness not because they are truly lacking, but because they have not laid hold of what they have already been given. And it is to this that the Spirit speaks with clarity and power through the words of the apostle: “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.” This is not a small statement. It is a thunderous declaration. It is a foundation for victorious living, for holy perseverance, and for unwavering faith.

Let the Church hear it again: His divine power has already given us everything we need. Not some things. Not partial help. Not conditional access. Everything. That means there is no true lack in the believer’s life that heaven has not already answered. Everything we need to live as God calls us to live, everything we need to walk in righteousness, to endure hardship, to resist temptation, to bear fruit, to persevere in love, and to become like Christ—has been given. And it has not been given in pieces, but in fullness. Not because we have earned it, but because He has called us by His own glory and goodness.

You must grasp this: the life of godliness is not achieved by striving in your own strength, but by drawing from the inexhaustible power that is already at work in you. The Spirit of God who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you. The Word of God is living and active. The grace of God is abundant. The promises of God are sure. The call of God is irrevocable. And the power of God is already at work within you—not as a theory, not as a theological point, but as a living, dynamic reality.

But how is this power accessed? Through the knowledge of Him who called us. Not through mere information, but through relational knowing. To know Him is to receive life. To know Him is to walk in freedom. To know Him is to be conformed to His likeness. And this is not a one-time moment of salvation—it is an ongoing, deepening communion with Christ. The more we behold Him, the more we are transformed. The more we surrender to Him, the more we are strengthened. The more we trust in Him, the more we walk in His victory.

This is why the Church must not be content with shallow knowledge of Christ. We must press in. We must hunger for more of Him. We must seek His face, not just His hand. Too many are weak because they know about Christ but have not truly come to know Christ. They recite doctrines without intimacy. They perform religious activity without spiritual vitality. And so they live in frustration, defeated by sin, tossed by emotion, and crippled by fear—when all the while, everything they need has already been given.

This divine provision is sufficient. It is not lacking in power. It does not fail in the face of suffering. It does not run dry in the desert of adversity. If you are in Christ, then the power that enabled Him to endure the cross, to forgive His enemies, to silence demons, to conquer death, and to reign in glory—that power is available to you. Not to glorify self, not to pursue comfort, but to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

Therefore, I urge the Church: rise up in the truth of what has been given. Do not shrink back in fear. Do not live as though you are spiritually bankrupt. The riches of heaven are yours in Christ. You have access to the wisdom of God. You have the fruit of the Spirit. You have the armor of righteousness. You have the indwelling Helper. You have the authority of the Name. You have the victory of the cross and the power of the resurrection.

Let this truth awaken you to action. Do not be passive with grace. Do not treat power like potential—it is reality. Step into it by faith. Feed on the Word. Walk in the Spirit. Obey without hesitation. Live in purity. Endure hardship. Love one another fervently. And when trials come, do not ask for escape alone, but for endurance. For the same power that grants godliness also grants perseverance.

But let us also remember that this divine power is not given to us as an end in itself. It is given to us to glorify the One who called us. It is given so that our lives may point to Him. We have not been empowered to build our own kingdoms or platforms. We have been empowered to die to ourselves, to take up our cross, and to reveal Christ to the world. If divine power does not lead us to divine character, then we have missed its purpose. If it does not lead us to humility, holiness, and love, then we have turned it into something it was never meant to be.

So, Church of the Living God, examine your heart. Are you walking in what you have been given? Are you drawing from the well that never runs dry? Are you living in the knowledge of the One who called you? If you feel distant from His power, return to the place of knowing Him. Return to His Word. Return to prayer. Return to the posture of surrender. He has not withdrawn His hand. He has not rescinded His promise. But He will not force you to drink. You must come. You must draw near. You must take hold of what is already yours in Christ.

Let your life declare it. Let your trials reveal it. Let your witness proclaim it: His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness.

There is no excuse to live defeated. There is no reason to remain stagnant. There is no burden too heavy when His power is your strength. There is no sin too great when His grace is your supply. There is no calling too high when His presence is your portion.

Live, then, as those who have been given much. Steward the gift. Walk worthy of the call. Be holy as He is holy. And let the world see a Church not defined by weakness, but by the power of God made perfect in surrendered vessels.

To Him be the glory, now and forever,

To Him who has called us, filled us, and keeps us,

To Christ Jesus, our life, our power, and our hope,

Amen.

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O Sovereign Lord,

God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, exalted above the heavens, clothed in majesty and light, full of grace and truth—

We bow before You in awe and gratitude, giving thanks for the mercy You have shown to Your Church in every generation. You, who were before all things and who hold all things together by the word of Your power, have not left us in ignorance or weakness, but have provided for us all that we need through the divine gift of Your Son, and through the immeasurable power of Your Spirit.

We come before You now, lifting our hearts in intercession for the universal Church—scattered across nations and languages, joined together by the blood of Christ and bound by the indwelling Spirit. And we bless Your name, because You have not withheld from Your people what is necessary to live a godly life. You have not demanded from us that which You have not already supplied. You have given us everything we need for life and for godliness through the knowledge of You who called us by Your own glory and excellence.

O Lord, what generosity You have shown us! What kindness You have lavished upon us! Though we were once dead in sin, powerless to rise, blind to truth, and unable to change, You awakened us by the voice of Your call. You brought us out of death and into life, out of corruption and into righteousness, out of futility and into purpose. And You did not merely call us—you equipped us. You gave us Your Word, living and active. You gave us Your Spirit, present and powerful. You gave us Your promises, faithful and true. You gave us access to the fullness of divine provision so that we might become partakers of the divine nature, growing into maturity, holiness, and the likeness of Your Son.

So now, Father, let the eyes of Your people be opened to this glorious inheritance. Let the Church not live as though she is still in lack. Let her not walk in defeat when You have granted victory. Let her not stumble in fear when You have given boldness. Let her not wither in confusion when You have spoken wisdom. Teach us, Lord, to take hold of what has been given. Remove from us the ignorance that keeps us bound. Deliver us from the lies that tell us we are still powerless. Open the hearts of Your people to receive what You have already poured out.

Let Your Church no longer be passive in the face of spiritual opposition, but strengthened by Your divine power. Let us walk in purity, speak in truth, endure in trial, forgive in love, and live with purpose. Cause us to hunger not only for the gifts You give but for the knowledge of You who gives them. Draw us deeper into intimacy with You, for it is through knowing You that we access all You have made available. Let us not seek power apart from presence, nor blessing apart from obedience. Let us not chase experiences while neglecting communion with the Living God.

We pray for leaders across the body of Christ—that pastors, elders, and shepherds would be men and women of wisdom and integrity, filled with the Spirit and grounded in truth. May they not lead from their own strength, but from the divine sufficiency You have promised. Let their words be seasoned with grace and marked by truth. Let their lives be models of godliness and courage. Let their hands be strong to serve and their hearts be humble to learn.

We ask You to empower every believer, in every walk of life, to walk in the provision of heaven. Let parents raise children in the strength of Your wisdom. Let workers labor in their calling with integrity and witness. Let the elderly flourish in wisdom and prayer. Let the young be rooted in truth and fervent in love. Let the discouraged be reminded that they are not forgotten and that Your power is still enough. Let the weary remember that they are carried by an everlasting arm. Let the broken be rebuilt by Your hand. Let the proud be humbled in mercy.

Teach us, Lord, to live not in our own strength, but by the sufficiency of Your power. Let us no longer ask You to give what You have already made available, but rather give us the grace to walk in what we already possess. Train our hearts to respond with faith, not with fear. Cultivate within us the disciplines of holiness, the rhythm of prayer, the life of worship, and the obedience of love. Let our faith not be theoretical, but practical—seen in how we live, how we love, and how we endure.

Let the Church be a radiant bride, clothed in the garments of grace, equipped with divine power, and prepared for every good work. Let our testimony be not only in word, but in power—power that brings healing to the sick, hope to the hopeless, light to the darkened, and peace to the tormented. Let the world see in us a people who live not for this age, but for the eternal kingdom of our Lord. Let them see that there is a power at work in us that does not come from us—a power that testifies of Christ and glorifies His name.

Guard us, O God, from drifting into self-reliance. Remind us daily that apart from You we can do nothing, but through You, all things are possible. Keep us from the pride that forgets the source, and from the despair that denies the supply. Let our lives be a continual testimony to Your faithfulness—to the sufficiency of the divine power that sustains us in every season.

And as we await the return of our King, may we be found faithful. Not because we were strong in ourselves, but because we trusted fully in the One who called us. Let us persevere in joy. Let us abound in love. Let us grow in knowledge. Let us endure with hope. Let us shine with holiness. Let us run the race with endurance, empowered by the divine supply You have already placed within us.

To You, O Lord, be all glory and honor and power, for from You and through You and to You are all things. Yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and our sufficiency,

Amen.