2 Peter 1:8

Christians must develop these qualities. Then they will know Jesus better. They will also become mature Christians. They will be active, not lazy. They will be useful. ‘Useful’ actually means ‘full of fruit’. (See John 15:1-7.) It reminds us of the story that Jesus told about the seed in Matthew 13:22-23. Sadly, many Christians do not become mature. 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 and Hebrews 5:11-13 describe such people.

Peter referred to our ‘*Lord Jesus Christ’. This is his full title. ‘*Lord’ means that he has complete authority. He is head over everything. ‘Jesus’ is his human name. The name Jesus means ‘God is the one who saves’. Jesus saves people from their *sins (Matthew 1:21). ‘Christ’ means ‘the one whom God has *anointed’ (see verse 1).