In 2 Peter 1:6, godliness is found in the list of things we need to be saved. So often the topic of godliness is not really viewed. And yet, it is emphasized in the New Testament over and over again! Consider a few of the things the Bible says about godliness:

  • It is great gain when accompanied by contentment (1 Timothy 6:6).
  • It must be pursued (1 Timothy 6:11).
  • It is profitable for all things (1 Timothy 4:8).
  • It is necessary to enter into heaven (2 Peter 1:6-11).

What is godliness?

  • It does not mean “to be like God!”
    • Everything in 2 Peter 1:5-7 is designed to make us more like God.
    • Godliness means to have reverence, devotion, and humble adoration towards God (devout, piety, awe, and respect). (Thayer pg. 262; Truth Commentary of 2 Peter pg. 42).
  • Unfortunately, most folks in the world do not have this quality in their lives

What is its source?

  • Unfortunately, most folks do not know how to gain lives of godliness.
    • It cannot be gained by our own intuition, goodness and sincerity.
    • Instead it is to be gained through means provided by God’s word (2 Peter 1:2-4). Also see 1 Timothy 6:3; Titus 1:1.
  • Only by absorbing our minds in the word of God can we learn the truth about God and why He is deserving of reverence and devotion.

Why is it valuable?

  • Why is obtaining it a means of “great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6)?
    • It won’t be destroyed on the Judgment Day (2 Peter 3:10-11).
    • It leads to true repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10).
    • It has value in the life to come (1 Timothy 4:7-9).
  • Godliness disciplines our souls to have a proper attitude towards God in this life, and as a result we will be prepared to stand before Him on the Judgment Day.

What is godliness supposed to look like?

  • We have reverence in the worship assembly.
    • We have reverence during the Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:28-29)
    • We have reverence during the singing (Hebrews 2:12).
    • We have reverence during the teaching (Ephesians 4:20-21).
    • We have reverence during the prayers.
    • We have reverence during the giving.
  • We have reverence outside of the worship assembly.
    • We recognize our unworthiness and dependence upon God (Luke 18:13-14).
    • We submit fully to the will of God (Hebrews 11:6).
    • We strive to be like Jesus (1 Corinthians 11:1).
    • We continue to demonstrate adoration, respect and piety towards God in the tough times (Job 1:20-22; 2:9-10).

Conclusion: Godliness is a must for every person to have. If you don’t have it … it’s time to get it!