2 Peter 1:8-11

Avoiding Spiritual Myopia by Developing Eternal Vision

The graces of verses 5-7, must be in the Christian and multiply if he would not become idle (See K.J.V. margin) and without fruit in the knowledge of Christ. Peter uses the word "if" to show the great importance of having these in one's life. He also uses the word "abound" to show Christianity is not half-hearted, but an all-out effort. If one does not do these things, he is blind to things far off, or eternal in nature. Such an one has forgotten the cleansing from sin received at baptism (Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21), as evidenced by the life he leads (2 Peter 1:8-9).

Since verses 8 and 9 are true, Christians want to strive with all their might to make sure their calling and election. They have been called through the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14). The gospel is for all (Mark 16:15; Romans 1:16), but not all receive the call with an obedient spirit and thus fail to be of the elect (Matthew 7:21; 1 Thessalonians 1:3-6). One can be sure of his calling and election if he does the things Peter has set forth. Peter assures such individuals will never fall. How can one make sure that which has never been unsure? Thus, this passage teaches the possibility of apostasy. The near-sighted will fall, but those whose sight is set on the far goal of heaven will not fall.

Because Christians diligently work to make their call and election sure, they will enter heaven. Christians are already in the kingdom and look forward to being in the eternal kingdom, or heaven (Colossians 1:13; Hebrews 12:28; Revelation 1:9; Matthew 25:34; Acts 14:21-22; 2 Timothy 4:18). Remember, the A.S.V. said Christians must have a faith which supplies virtue and virtue knowledge, etc. (verses 5-7). If one supplies the graces and abounds in them (verse 8), God will abound ("abundantly") supply ("ministered") heaven, which is the eternal kingdom (2 Peter 1:10-11).