As we come to the end of this section where Peter lists virtues that we must make every effort to add to our lives, he then tells us why we must do that:
“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1 v 10-11)
The words ‘make every effort’ is not only about working at these virtues Peter lists but the word he uses is about speed, hasten, it is a command to get growing sooner than later.
Why?
- To prove you are called as a Christian. It doesn’t make you a Christian but it validates that you are. Belief is not enough.
- You will not stumble, it isn’t a guarantee of not sinning but of not falling and making it to the finishing line. For those who have already fallen away it is because of one of these virtues.
- It will impact the reward you receive when you die, it will be a rich welcome. I’m not sure exactly but that doesn’t look like we will be getting into eternity through a back door entrance but more a red carpet occasion!
Missions Paul 