This passage is a powerful exhortation for believers to actively pursue their faith with diligence and purpose. Peter encourages us to ensure that our calling and election—the divine invitation to salvation and our chosen place in God’s plan—are firm and unwavering. He is not suggesting that we earn our salvation through works but rather that we confirm and strengthen our relationship with Christ by living out our faith in obedience and perseverance.
The phrase “be more diligent” implies that faith is not passive; it requires intentional effort. Peter has just outlined in the preceding verses a list of virtues that build upon one another—faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love (2 Peter 1:5-7). By actively cultivating these qualities, we demonstrate that our faith is genuine. James 2:17 echoes this truth: “Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead in itself.” This does not mean that works save us, but they are evidence of a faith that is alive and growing.
Peter reassures us that if we pursue these godly traits, “you will never stumble.” This does not mean we will never make mistakes or struggle, but that we will not ultimately fall away from our faith. A life anchored in Christ, characterized by obedience and spiritual growth, remains secure. This connects with Jesus’ teaching in John 15:5, where He says, “I am the vine. You are the branches. He who remains in me, and I in him, bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” When we remain connected to Christ, our steps are steadier, and we are less likely to be led astray.
The promise in verse 11 is remarkable: “For thus you will be richly supplied with the entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” This speaks of an abundant welcome into eternity for those who faithfully follow Christ. The idea of being “richly supplied” suggests not just a simple entrance but a glorious, triumphant one. Paul expresses a similar thought in 2 Timothy 4:7-8, where he speaks of finishing the race and receiving a crown of righteousness.
This passage is both an encouragement and a challenge. It reminds us that our faith is something to be cultivated with diligence. Assurance of salvation is not found in a single moment of decision but in a life that continually reflects God’s transformative work. The reward of such faithfulness is a secure and abundant entrance into Christ’s eternal kingdom, where we will experience the fullness of His presence forever.
2 Peter 1:10-11. Be more diligent to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never stumble. For thus you will be richly supplied with the entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.