RICHARD CORDER
The final words of the Apostle Peter in his second letter remind believers of two vital truths: the need for spiritual growth and the call to remain faithful. In 2 Peter 3:18, he urges followers of Christ to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” This instruction comes as both a warning and an encouragement for all who walk with God.
Peter’s audience faced hardship and confusion. False teachers had spread distorted ideas, leading some away from the truth. Peter’s desire was to protect these believers from losing their stability in faith. He reminded them that the best defence against error is growth. I’m speaking of growth in God’s grace and in understanding who Christ truly is. This growth begins with a firm commitment to God’s Word. Reading, studying, and reflecting on Scripture help believers know God’s character and promises.
The Bible reveals how He is present with us, answers prayer, strengthens us in trials, and keeps us faithful through difficulties. Forgetting these promises can make believers vulnerable to doubt, so Peter calls them to remember what God has said and live by it.
Growth also comes through prayer. Many people find prayer difficult because they feel alone while doing it, but prayer is a real conversation with God. It draws us closer to Him and teaches us trust. Sometimes prayers are answered exactly as asked; other times, God allows challenges to continue so that we can grow in patience and faith. Either way, prayer shapes our hearts to depend on Him.
Worship and fellowship are other ways that God’s grace helps us grow. When believers gather to sing, study, and share life together, they encourage each other and are reminded of God’s faithfulness. The early church devoted itself to these same practices. The early believers practiced teaching each other, breaking bread, prayer, and fellowship. In these they found strength in unity. These same habits remain essential for the church today.
Peter also warns against being influenced by the world’s thinking. The Apostle Paul gave a similar message in Romans 12, where he told believers not to conform to the world but to be transformed by renewing their minds through God’s Word. Only Scripture has the power to cleanse our thoughts and guide us toward what is good and pleasing to God. As our minds are renewed, we begin to see life as God sees it and can better understand His will.
Growing in grace means becoming more aware of God’s kindness and influence in our lives. Grace is not only unearned favour, it is also God’s active work in turning us to Christ, strengthening our faith, and helping us live in a way that reflects His character. Through prayer, Scripture, worship, and fellowship, God’s grace shapes us into people who show love, patience, humility, and faithfulness.
Alongside grace, Peter emphasizes growing in knowledge, knowing Christ personally. This knowledge comes through reading the Gospels, where His life and teachings are recorded, and through daily prayer, where we experience His care in our own circumstances. As believers see how God answers prayers and provides for needs, they come to trust His wisdom more deeply.
Peter ends his letter by directing all praise to Christ, saying, “To him be the glory both now and forever.” Spiritual growth is not only for our benefit; it brings honour to Jesus. When we live in a way that reflects His truth and kindness, we give glory to the One who saved us. The Christian life, then, is a journey of continual growth.
but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
2 Peter 3:18
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