2 Peter 1:10

Wherefore the rather. Or, “wherefore the more,” that is, in view of all the reasoning outlined in vs. 3-9, Peter’s readers ought to give added attention to the matter of salvation.

Brethren. By using this word the apostle affectionately associates himself with his readers.

Give diligence. Gr. spoudazd, “to endeavor,” “to exert oneself,” usually implying haste. The apostle clearly understood the central position of Christ in effecting man’s salvation, but wished to make the believers aware of their own responsibility to cooperate with the divine agencies.

Calling. See on Rom. 8:30; Phil. 3:14.

Election. See on Rom. 9:11.

Sure. Gr. bebaios, “stable,” “fast,” “established.” The calling and election are an act of God (1 Peter 1:2; 2:21); yet it is possible for one to “frustrate the grace of God” (Gal. 2:21). Accordingly, the believer needs to “work out” his “own salvation with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:12). He will then be making a certainty of what God has already desired and made possible.

Fall. Or, “stumble.” The apostle is not implying that he who follows his counsel will never fall into sin, but that such a one will not fall from God’s calling and election. We may sin, but we shall triumph over sin, and not utterly fall from grace and forfeit salvation provided, of course, we fulfill the conditions the apostle lays down (cf. on 1 John 3:6-9).