Main Points

This episode of the “In the Word Podcast” is a concise exhortation for believers to actively and diligently pursue spiritual growth. The hosts, Will and Marie, use 2 Peter as a foundational text to argue that Christian faith is not passive but requires intentional effort. The discussion is built on the following key points:

1. The Goal is to Be “Doers” of the Word, Not Just “Hearers”
   The episode opens by establishing its central theme, referencing James 1:22. The hosts emphasize that the goal of studying Scripture is not merely to accumulate knowledge in one’s head but to translate that knowledge into action (“part of our hands”). This concept is reinforced at the end with the example of Ezra, who first studied the law, then practiced it, and only then taught it to others.
2. Making Your Calling and Election Sure Through Diligent Growth
   The core of the episode is an exposition of 2 Peter 1:5-10. Will reads this passage, which outlines a clear progression for spiritual development: start with faith, and then add moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. The hosts explain that actively “practicing these things” is the key to being fruitful, effective, and spiritually stable (“you will never stumble”).
3. The Foundational Necessity of Studying God’s Word
   Marie emphasizes that consistent study of the Bible is the primary way to build spiritual strength. She frames this discipline in terms of spiritual warfare, stating that the Word is our “armor” and that the enemy actively tries to keep believers from reading and studying it because he knows its power.
4. Biblical Examples of an “Excellent Spirit”
   To illustrate what this diligent, active faith looks like, Will provides two Old Testament examples. First, Daniel is described as having an “excellent spirit” because he “purposed in his heart to not defile himself” with the ungodly culture around him. Second, Ezra (from Ezra 7:10) is highlighted as the perfect model for a believer: Study the Word, Live the Word, and then Share the Word.

Scriptures Referenced

The following scriptures were cited or directly referenced during the podcast:

• James 1:22 (Timestamp: 00:30) – This verse is used to establish the podcast’s foundational theme: the importance of being “doers of the word, and not hearers only.”
• 2 Peter 1:10 (Timestamp: 00:59) – This is presented as the main goal for believers: “be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you.”
• 2 Peter 1:5-8 (Timestamp: 01:17) – This passage is read aloud and serves as the roadmap for spiritual growth, listing the qualities believers should add to their faith to become fruitful.
• Daniel (Chapter 1) (Timestamp: 04:05) – Daniel is used as an example of someone with an “excellent spirit” who purposed in his heart not to defile himself with the king’s culture.
• Ezra 7:10 (Timestamp: 05:08) – This verse is presented as the ideal progression for a believer’s life: Ezra “set his heart to study the law of the Lord, and to practice it, and to teach.”

Overall Message

The central message of this podcast episode is a call to intentional, active Christian discipleship. The hosts argue that genuine faith is demonstrated not by what a person knows, but by what they do. Using 2 Peter 1 as a guide, they lay out a clear path for spiritual growth that requires believers to diligently add virtues like moral excellence, self-control, and love to their faith. This active pursuit is strengthened by consistent Bible study, which serves as spiritual armor. The examples of Daniel and Ezra are presented as models of this lifestyle—one of purity and separation from the world, and one of disciplined study that leads to practice and teaching. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to become dedicated “doers” of the Word to ensure they are fruitful and secure in their divine calling.