Faith gives us conviction, and moral courage gives us the determination to do what is right. But without knowledge, we would not know what is right. That is why Peter says to “add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge” (2 Pet. 1:5).
Knowledge, in this context, is not merely information—it is understanding God’s will. The Greek suggests a seeking, an inquiry, a growing awareness through study and experience. It is the kind of knowledge that directs life and shapes decisions.
God has always expected His people to know His will. Under the Old Covenant, Israel was commanded to teach God’s Word diligently (Deut. 6:6-9). Under the New Covenant, knowing God is essential to belonging to Him (Jer. 31:31-34). A lack of knowledge has always been spiritually dangerous. God said, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” (Hos. 4:6). Zeal alone is not enough—Paul spoke of those who had zeal for God but not according to knowledge (Rom. 10:2).
That makes knowledge indispensable. Faith must be directed. Moral courage must be guided. Without knowledge, even sincere effort can be misdirected.
So how do we develop this knowledge? The source is clear: the Word of God. True knowledge of God and His will is found in Scripture. The New Testament reveals Christ and His will for our lives, while the Old Testament provides instruction, encouragement and examples (Rom. 15:4; 2 Tim. 3:16-17). If we want to grow, we must be people of the Book.
But knowledge requires true desire. Proverbs speaks of seeking wisdom as one would search for treasure (Prov. 2:3-6). We must value knowledge more than material gain and cultivate a deep love for instruction. That means making Bible study a priority—personally and with others—and never taking those opportunities lightly.
At the same time, knowledge carries a danger. Paul warns that “knowledge puffs up, but love edifies” (1 Cor. 8:1). Knowledge can lead to pride if it is not balanced with humility and love. It can also harm others if used carelessly—especially when we disregard the consciences of weaker brethren (1 Cor. 8:9-13). Therefore, knowledge must always be governed by love and expressed with meekness (Jas. 3:13).
When properly developed, knowledge strengthens faith and directs moral courage. It gives clarity to our convictions and confidence to our actions. It helps us to grow, to avoid error and to live in a way that pleases God.
Are we growing in knowledge? If not, we are vulnerable. But if we are, we are building a life that is stable, fruitful and firmly rooted in the truth.