But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

2 PETER 3:18KJV
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2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

What does 2 Peter 3:18 mean?

2 Peter 3:18 urges believers to keep growing in both grace and the knowledge of Jesus Christ, recognizing Him as Lord and Savior, and ends by giving Him glory forever. The verse is a call to ongoing spiritual development and worship, not just a one-time event.

Peter, writing to Christians facing confusion and false teachings, finishes his letter by encouraging them to keep maturing in their relationship with Jesus. This is not just about learning facts, but about deepening trust and understanding of who Jesus is. The verse closes with a doxology, a short expression of praise, highlighting Jesus’s eternal importance.

The Greek behind 2 Peter 3:18

  • "Grow" (αὐξάνετε, auxanete): This Greek word is in the present tense, suggesting an ongoing, continuous process rather than a single moment. Peter is urging believers to keep developing in their faith.
  • "Grace" (χάριτι, chariti): In Greek, this word often refers to God’s undeserved favor and kindness. Here, it points to living more and more in the reality of God’s generosity.
  • "Knowledge" (γνώσει, gnōsei): This word means more than just information; it often carries the sense of personal, relational understanding. Peter is encouraging a deeper, lived knowledge of Jesus, not just head knowledge.
  • "Glory" (δόξα, doxa): In Greek, this word refers to honor, splendor, or praise. Peter’s closing words direct all honor to Jesus, emphasizing His central place in Christian faith.

Why 2 Peter 3:18 matters

  • 2 Peter 3:18 clears up the idea that spiritual growth is a one-time event; Peter’s language shows it is a lifelong journey.
  • The verse emphasizes that knowing Jesus is not just about facts or doctrine, but about a growing, living relationship.
  • This verse wraps up Peter’s letter by focusing attention on Jesus, reminding readers that all Christian growth and praise are centered on Him, especially in a time when false teachings were spreading.

Where else these words appear

“grow” Greek G837 · used in 22 verses

  • Matthew 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:
  • John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
  • 2 Corinthians 9:10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)

“Saviour” Greek G4990 · used in 24 verses

  • Luke 1:47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
  • 1 Timothy 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;
  • Titus 3:4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

“knowledge” Greek G1108 · used in 28 verses

  • Luke 1:77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,
  • 1 Corinthians 8:11 And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died?
  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

“ever” Greek G165 · used in 102 verses

  • Matthew 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
  • Acts 15:18 Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.
  • Hebrews 5:6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.