Your question touches on a rich theological and spiritual reality in Christian life. The phrase you're referring to comes from 2 Peter 3:18:
> “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” (NIV)
Let’s break down your questions step by step.
---
1. What does "grow up" mean in this context?
The Greek word translated “grow” is αὐξάνω (auxanō), meaning to increase, become greater, mature. It implies an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Peter isn’t just speaking of gaining information, but maturing spiritually:
“Grace” refers to living more deeply in the transforming power of Christ — growing in humility, trust, forgiveness, and dependence on God.
“Knowledge” (Greek: gnōsis) refers not just to head knowledge, but intimate, relational knowledge of Christ — knowing Him personally, not just facts about Him.
So to “grow up” means to become more Christlike, to live a life increasingly shaped by God's character, truth, and presence.
---
2. What happens if one does not grow up?
Peter gives this exhortation in the context of warning against false teachers and spiritual complacency (see 2 Peter 3:17). If a believer does not grow, several dangers emerge:
Spiritual stagnation or regression: Like a tree that doesn't grow, one might wither, become fruitless, or even fall (cf. John 15:6).
Vulnerability to deception: Without growing in discernment and understanding of Christ, one is more easily misled (Eph. 4:14).
Dishonoring God: A stagnant life does not reflect the beauty and glory of the gospel.
Loss of rewards: While salvation is by grace, rewards in the Kingdom are often tied to faithfulness and growth (cf. 1 Cor. 3:12–15).
---
3. Is this growing up within the package called salvation?
Yes — growing up is part of the salvation “package,” but distinct from the moment of justification.
Salvation in Scripture is often seen in three tenses:
Aspect Description Scripture
Justification Saved from the penalty of sin (past) Rom. 5:1
Sanctification Being saved from the power of sin (present) Phil. 2:12–13; 2 Pet. 3:18
Glorification Will be saved from the presence of sin (future) Rom. 8:30
“Growing up” belongs to sanctification — the lifelong journey of being conformed to Christ's image. It is the evidence that one’s salvation is genuine and alive (cf. James 2:17, Phil. 1:6).
---
Summary Devotional Thought:
> To "grow up in grace" is not a burdensome command but a joyful calling — to become more like Jesus, to know Him more deeply, and to walk in His strength. Without this growth, the believer is like a tree that stops bearing fruit, vulnerable and unstable. But with growth, comes stability, joy, discernment, and a life that brings glory to Christ.
Would you like this turned into a devotional card with a verse and prayer?
Yes. Here is your devotional card titled:
🌿 Grow in Grace
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”
— 2 Peter 3:18 (NIV)
---
💭 Reflection:
To grow in grace is to let the life of Christ take deeper root within you — shaping your thoughts, habits, and desires. It is not merely about learning about Jesus but becoming like Him. Growth is not optional for a healthy faith. Without it, we drift, dry up, or become entangled in deception. With it, we are strengthened, steadied, and transformed for God’s glory.
---
🙏 Prayer:
Lord Jesus,
Help me not to remain as a spiritual child, but to grow each day in Your grace. Teach me to know You more — not just with my mind but in my heart. Keep me from stagnation, protect me from deception, and shape my life into a reflection of Your love and truth.
To You be glory both now and forever. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment