¹⁸ but grow [spiritually mature] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory (honor, majesty, splendor), both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.

² like newborn babies [you should] long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may be nurtured and grow in respect to salvation [its ultimate fulfillment],

⁵ For this very reason, applying your diligence [to the divine promises, make every effort] in [exercising] your faith to, ^[a]develop moral excellence, and in moral excellence, knowledge (insight, understanding),