II Peter 1:1-21
Some time ago we saw Paul’s list of the “fruit of the Spirit”: Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Today we see a listing from Peter that he calls “these things” (or “qualities” in the ESV and NASB translations): …faith … virtue … knowledge … self-control … steadfastness … godliness … brotherly affection … love. (vv. 5-7) Love and self-control are word-for-word with Paul, plus I attributed Paul’s faithfulness with Peter’s steadfastness. One could also connect brotherly affection with kindness and goodness. But faith, virtue, knowledge, and godliness stand out in Peter’s list. Peter goes on to say that … if you practice these qualities you will never fall. (v. 10b) So between the two lists I see active pursuit in Peter’s list and godly outcome in Paul’s list. If you pursue Peter’s qualities, Paul’s fruit will be the outcome. I’ve never connected these two passages of Scripture before. Interesting…
See also: November 1 / II Peter 1:1-11; November 2 / II Peter 1:12-21