Partakers of the Divine Nature

3 His divine power has given us everything [we need] for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us [by His] own[fn] glory and excellence. 4 Through [these] He has given us [His] precious and magnificent[fn] promises, so that through [them] you may become partakers of [the] divine nature, now that you have escaped the corruption in [the] world caused by evil desires.

5 For this very [reason], make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8 For [if] you possess these [ qualities ] and continue to grow [in them], they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in [your] knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 [But] whoever lacks these [ traits ] is nearsighted to the point of blindness, having forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.

10 Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things {you will} never stumble, 11 and you will receive a lavish reception into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

12 Therefore I will not neglect to[fn] remind you of these things, even though you know [them] and are established in the truth you now have. 13 I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I [live] in the tent [ of my body ],[fn] 14 because I know that this tent will soon be laid aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. 15 And I will make every effort to ensure [that] after my departure, you will be able to recall these things at all times.