Biblion Bible Commentary
Read the introduction to 2 Peter · About this commentary
Grow in Grace
2 Peter 3:17-18
17 You therefore, beloved, knowing these things beforehand, beware, lest being carried away with the error of the wicked, you fall from your own steadfastness. · WEB
The last word of a letter full of warnings is not vigilance but growth — the only stability a living thing has.
You therefore, beloved, knowing these things beforehand, beware. The warning is given the shape the whole letter has had: forewarned is the condition, and the danger named is being carried away with the error of the wicked and falling from your own steadfastness.
The word for steadfastness is the noun behind the sure word of 2 Peter 1:19 and the sure calling of 2 Peter 1:10. What is at risk is the very firmness the letter has been supplying, and the loss is described as being swept along — the passive of the shipping image used of the prophets being carried by the Spirit 2 Peter 1:21. A person is always being carried by something.
So the final instruction is not to brace but to grow: grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Grace first, knowledge second, and epignōsis is the letter's own word, closing the circle it opened with 2 Peter 1:2. Nothing living holds still, and the only defense against drift the letter finally offers is movement in the right direction. Then the doxology, given to Christ directly: to him be the glory both now and forever.
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