2 Peter 3:18

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

King James Version

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.

New International Version

Spiritual Growth

In this verse, the apostle Peter is giving a final exhortation to believers near the end of his second epistle. He emphasizes the crucial need for continual spiritual growth and deepening one’s relationship with Jesus Christ.

When Peter instructs believers to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” he is calling them to make spiritual maturity and Christlike character development their highest priorities. Grace refers to the unmerited favor God bestows through salvation, while knowledge speaks of an ever-increasing understanding and experience of who Jesus is.

Spiritual growth in the Christian life is not automatic but requires diligent effort and cooperation with the Holy Spirit’s work. Believers must intentionally study God’s Word, apply its truth, and seek to become more like Christ in their thoughts, speech, and actions. This is a lifelong journey of transformation.

Peter’s command implies that no matter how long one has been a Christian, there is always more spiritual progress to be made. No one reaches perfection in this life. Continued growth in God’s grace and in intimately knowing the Lord Jesus is essential.

Finally, Peter provides the motivation for this pursuit of maturity, that it brings glory to Christ. As believers increasingly reflect Christ’s character and experience more of His grace at work in their lives, it magnifies and honors the Savior. This doxology highlights that spiritual development ultimately points others to the greatness and majesty of Jesus deserving of eternal praise.

This verse is a rousing call for Christians to make diligent, unceasing efforts to grow in their understanding and application of God’s grace, with the aim of glorifying Christ both now and forevermore.