2 Peter 1:6

"Self-control" (Gr. egkrates) means mastery of self, disciplined moderation, controlling one’s desires and passions (cf. Proverbs 16:32; Proverbs 25:28; Acts 24:25; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Galatians 5:23; Philippians 3:12-16; 1 Timothy 4:7-8; James 4:17). Many of the early Christian heresies taught that since the body was evil (some claimed) or unimportant (others claimed) it was not necessary to curb fleshly lusts, only to think correctly.

"Any religious system which claims that religious knowledge emancipates from the obligations of morality is false." [Note: Hiebert, "The Necessary . . .," p. 46.]

"Perseverance" is the need to keep on keeping on in spite of adversity. It is patient endurance in holiness when we encounter temptation to give in or to give up (cf. Romans 5:3-4; Romans 15:4-5; 2 Corinthians 1:6; 2 Corinthians 6:4; Colossians 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Thessalonians 1:4; James 1:3). The Greek word (hypomonen) literally means to remain under something, such as a heavy load.

"Many folk have the wrong concept of what patience really is. They think it means sitting in a traffic jam on the freeway in the morning without worrying about getting to work. Well, that is not patience. It just gives you an excuse for being late to work. Patience is being able to endure when trials come." [Note: McGee, 5:723.]

"Godliness" (Gr. eusebeia) refers to behavior that reflects the character of God (cf. 2 Peter 1:3; 2 Peter 3:11; et al.). It presupposes a desire to please God in all the relationships of life.