Peter’s virtue list also makes use of a literary device known as a sorite that was quite popular at the time. A sorite is a step by step chain that culminates in a climax.1 Some commentators argue that this means Peter presents us with a progressive list of virtues culmination in that which is most important, love.2 Love is thus the overriding ethical principle from which the other virtues gain their meaning and validity.3 Other commentators, however, are more cautious, claiming that the list of virtues do not come in any definite order,4 and that Peter is not intending to highlight one above the other.5
5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge,