The Role of Knowledge in Building Spiritual Character

 

    

As Christians, we strive to live a life that emulates the qualities of Christ. This is what it means to participate in God’s nature. It is a path that requires faith, perseverance, and a willingness to continually grow and develop.

Second Peter 1:6 describes this quest as one that requires knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. These qualities are what make us Christlike, and they guide us as we walk with God. 

Knowledge: The first step in participating in God’s nature is to gain knowledge of who He is and what He desires for us. This knowledge is not just head knowledge but involves a deep understanding that transforms our hearts and minds. 

Self-Control: As we gain knowledge, we must exercise self-control. This means we must resist temptation, and overcome our weaknesses, and submit to God’s will. It’s not always easy, but with God’s help, we can develop self-control.

There are more God-like qualities that we will focus on the next personal Bible Study but these are the first two that were emphasized on verse 5 and 6 of Second Peter chapter one. When we participate in God’s nature, we become more like Christ. We become people who are characterized by knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. This is the life of a Christian who is truly living out their faith.

Let us remember 2 Peter 1:6, and let these qualities guide us as we seek to live a Christlike life. Let us continually grow in our knowledge of God, exercise self-control, remain steadfast in our faith, strive for godliness, show brotherly affection, and above all, love.