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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:
For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

New Defender's Study Bible Notes

1:3 all things. Note the repeated references to “all these things” (II Peter 1:3,8,9,10,12,15). God has provided everything we need for a fruitful Christian life through the marvelous promises of His Word.


1:3 to glory and virtue. This phrase can mean, “by His glory and virtue.” The beauty and strength of character seen in Jesus actually draw men to Himself for salvation.


1:4 precious promises. It has been calculated that the Bible contains some 3800 promises, from that in Genesis 3:15 to the final promise in Revelation 22:20.


1:4 divine nature. It is through the Word and its promises, if we believe them, that we are given a new nature, being “born again…of incorruptible [seed], by the Word of God” (I Peter 1:23).


1:5 add to your faith. This succession of seven attributes to be added to one’s saving faith should be understood as natural developments of true faith rather than as arbitrary additions. That is, “in your faith exhibit virtue, and in your virtue show knowledge, …etc.”


1:5 virtue. “Virtue” is not mere moral goodness, but spiritual valor, or strength of character.


1:7 brotherly kindness. “Brotherly kindness” (Greek philadelphia) is elsewhere translated “brotherly love.”


1:7 charity. “Charity” (Greek agape) is commonly rendered “love.” This type of love is thus distinct from brotherly love. It involves deep respect for a person, recognizing the value and interests of that person, and caring for him or her as a person of genuine worth.


1:8 barren. “Barren” means, literally “idle.” A fruitful and effective Christian life and work will be the natural product of true Christian character.


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