2 Peter 1:7 (KJV)

What does 2 Peter 1:7 mean?

2 Peter 1:7 describes a sequence of qualities that believers are encouraged to develop, specifically adding "brotherly kindness" to godliness, and then adding "charity" (love) to brotherly kindness. The verse highlights a progression where each virtue builds on the previous one, showing how relationships and love are central to Christian character.

Peter, one of Jesus’s apostles, is writing to early Christians to encourage them to grow in their faith. In this part of his letter, Peter lists qualities that should be present in a believer’s life. "Brotherly kindness" refers to warm, family-like affection among fellow believers, while "charity" means a selfless, unconditional love that extends to all people. This verse shows that faith is not just about personal piety but also about how one treats others, both within and beyond the faith community.

The Greek behind 2 Peter 1:7

• ἀδελφότης (philadelphia, G5360): This word means "brotherly kindness" or "brotherly love," and it refers to the kind of affection and care one would show to family members. In this context, it emphasizes the importance of close, supportive relationships among believers.
• ἀγάπη (agapē, G26): Translated as "charity" in the KJV, this Greek word means a self-giving, unconditional love. It is often understood as the highest form of love, going beyond affection for friends or family to include goodwill toward all people, even those outside one’s immediate circle.

Why 2 Peter 1:7 matters

• 2 Peter 1:7 clarifies that spiritual growth is not only about personal godliness but also about how believers relate to others, moving from close relationships to a broader, selfless love.
• The verse shows that Christian maturity involves both affection for fellow believers and a wider, sacrificial love that reaches everyone.
• This progression of virtues connects to the larger passage, where Peter encourages believers to actively pursue growth in character, not remaining stagnant in their faith.