The best college professor I ever studied under was Richard Draper at Brigham Young University. I took a New Testament class from him in the summer term of 1983. During our June 7th class session we were discussing the writings of the Apostle Peter, particularly his 2nd General Epistle. In examining the 3rd verse of that first chapter in 2 Peter, which reads “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:” we focused on that last word in the verse – virtue.
Professor Draper stated that the word virtue in this passage does not refer to sexual purity, which is what I would have guessed it referred to. Instead, Professor Draper explained that the word virtue, which is a translation from the Greek word Areté, could be thought of as the image of your soul, or that which makes you the very best and distinguishes you from everyone else. The Greeks went on to think of our word virtue as moral excellence. Virtue was seen by the Greeks as that which enables one to fulfill one’s function or purpose. It suggested achieving a balanced and harmonious life, to live purposefully and with meaning. The word even pertained to Olympic competitors.
So enamored am I with the notion of virtue, that I adopted it as one of only three values I hold deeply. Virtue is one of the richest words in the English language. I marvel at its depth. I am mesmerized by the vastness of its possibilities. I embrace it wholly. And I encourage others to consider its implications. . .
I shall forever remain indebted to Professor Richard Draper. His impact on the direction of my life is without rival. His decency, his mastery of the art of teaching, and his vast knowledge of the New Testament left an indelible mark. . .
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