The final chapter of the book of 2 Peter reveals our author’s deep affection for his readers. In fact, the word “beloved” appears five times in the eighteen verses that comprise this portion of Scripture. Within this chapter, the Apostle will encourage his audience to reflect on the past, consider the future, and seek guidance for the present in order to “…grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).
The opening verses of chapter three mark the beginning of that journey…
“Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior” (2 Peter 3:1-2).
This reference to “my second letter” (NIV) likely refers to the Biblical book of 1 Peter. If so, this highlights Peter’s commitment to reinforce the sound doctrinal teachings he shared earlier. Furthermore, the last chapter of this letter (and Peter’s determination to stir up their pure minds “by way of reminder”) parallels a trio of similar commitments from the first chapter…
- “I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things” (2 Peter 1:12).
- “Yes, I think it is right …to stir you up by reminding you” (2 Peter 1:13).
- “…I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these things…” (2 Peter 1:15).
So, Peter’s intent in authoring this letter was not merely instructional, but to serve as a reminder for his readers to apply what they had already learned. In light of this, Peter endeavored to stir his audience to action. Much as a homeowner might stir up the coals in a fireplace to bring warmth and light to a home, Peter sought to ignite their desire to grasp Jesus’ teachings and act on them. The same holds true for contemporary readers of this epistle as we reflect on the teachings of the Scriptures and seek to put them into practice.
Finally, we should note this reference to “…the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets and the command given by our Lord and Savior through your apostles” (NIV). This serves to establish an equal level of authority between the Old Testament prophets and New Testament apostles. Our author will revisit this topic again near the end of this chapter when he introduces us to a special guest.
Image Attribution: Rickyukon, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder, that you should remember the predictions of the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles” (2 Peter 3:1-2 ESV).
In addition to expressing the Apostle Peter’s deep affection for his readers, our text from 2 Peter 3:1 also makes reference to a “sincere mind” or “wholesome thinking” (NIV). However, the passage quoted above defines sincerity in a way that transcends the ordinary definitions of honesty, earnestness, and candor.
Although sincerity is often associated with a lack of pretense, this word is rooted in the concept of “judging by sunlight” in the original language of 2 Peter 3:1. While it may be difficult to see the correlation between these ideas, some background information can help establish a connection between these seemingly unrelated themes. To do so, let’s return to the scene of a first century marketplace to witness a prospective transaction between a buyer and a seller.
In ancient times, an unethical merchant might seek to market a defective earthenware vessel to an unsuspecting customer. To accomplish this, a dishonest vendor would camouflage the damaged portion of a container by carefully applying a thin layer of wax. Once painted, the final product looked as if it was in perfect condition- until the purchaser attempted to fill it with water and subsequently discovered the truth.
To avoid that problem, a knowledgeable consumer would inspect a potential purchase by holding it up to the sun and looking within. The resulting sunlight would instantly illuminate any damage that had been repaired in such a manner. Armed with that information, a prospective buyer could negotiate a better price or discard the damaged item in favor of an unbroken piece.
So how does this apply to contemporary readers of this passage? Well, this portion of Scripture reminds us of the need to maintain sincerity and authenticity in our thinking. Unlike those who avoid being honest with themselves, the Biblical Scriptures encourage us to cultivate a God-honoring thought life that is truthful and ethical. Then, if we are “brought into the light” and examined by others, it will be evident that we are sincere individuals who genuinely represent God, rather than hypocritical “cracked pots.”
This brief aside also encourages us to avoid the path chosen by the false teachers that Peter identified for us in the previous chapter. A person who displays a “pure mind” (NET) thus serves as an appropriate contrast to others who prefer “…carousing in their own deceptions” (2 Peter 2:13).
Image Credit: “A very old crack” by Unhindered by Talent is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
“knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts” (2 Peter 3:3).
The word “first” can be used to mark the beginning of a numerical sequence or denote something of primary importance. The Apostle Peter has that second definition in view regarding the things he will say over the next few verses. Those things relate to blatant scoffers (NET), or mockers (Phillips) who will “…laugh at the truth” (TLB).
A “scoffer” is defined as someone who expresses derision or scorn for another person or thing. (1) The Biblical definition of this word serves to identify someone who derides another person. (2) While many of us are probably acquainted with those who exhibit such traits, “scoffing” actually has a lengthy history that dates back to the Garden of Eden.
For instance, Genesis 3: 1 tells us that the devil (in the form of a serpent) approached Eve with a seemingly harmless question: “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?” (Genesis 3:1 NLT).
When Eve stated that consuming the fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil would bring certain death, the serpent responded with a scoffer’s retort: “’…You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil’” (Genesis 3:4-5). This episode illuminates an unfortunate reality: those who choose to scoff at God’s Word in the last days are not unlike the one who scoffed at God’s Word in the first days.
That brings us to the difference between the “end times” and the “last days” mentioned here in 2 Peter 3:3. Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the term “end times” commonly refers to the events that will unfold shortly before this era of human history concludes. In contrast, the “last days” began with Jesus’ ascension and will expire upon His return.
For instance, the Biblical book of Hebrews tells us, “…in these last days [God] has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world” (Hebrews 1:2 ESV). So this reference to the “last days” pertains to the current period of human history, an era where God has spoken to us through His Son.
So while scoffers have been present in every era, we can expect them to increase in number as we approach the end of this chapter in human history.
(1) scoffer. (n.d.) American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. (2011). Retrieved August 26 2024 from https://www.thefreedictionary.com/scoffer
(2) G1703 – empaiktes – Strong’s Greek Lexicon (kjv). (n.d.). Blue Letter Bible. https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1703/kjv/tr/0-1/
“Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts” (2 Peter 3:3 KJV).
Our author has repeatedly addressed the risks associated with an attitude of lust over the course of this epistle. For example, the word “lust” (in its various forms) appears four times in the three chapters of this letter. 2 Peter 3:3 serves as one such example in describing those who walk after their own lusts.
In a general sense, “lust” is a characteristic that is found among those who seek to exploit others in various ways. It may also involve a desire to possess or control someone (or something) that belongs to someone else. Whenever we engage is such behaviors, we effectively strip others of their humanity and objectify them for use in gratifying our needs or desires. One translation of this passage helps communicate this idea in speaking of those “…whose only guide in life is what they want for themselves” (Phillips).
Since lust is typically distinguished by selfishness (Colossians 3:5 and 1 Thessalonians 4:4-5), it is incompatible with the God who is love (1 John 4:8, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7). In the words of one source, “Those who give way to their own lusts will always mock at any incentive to noble living.” (1) This behavior will signify a growing trend as we approach the end of days.
This characteristic is also associated with the act of “walking” in our text from 2 Peter 3:3. “Walking” is a Biblical idiom that refers to our conduct, disposition, and/or manner of life. 2 Corinthians 5:7 employs this idea in a positive sense when it tells us that God’s people are those who “…walk by faith, not by sight.” We find a similar example in Colossians 2:6: “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.”
However, the scoffers mentioned here in 2 Peter 3:3 are those who travel a different path. Thus, it is important to recognize that this type of conduct is not a mistake, an accident, a momentary indiscretion, or an isolated lapse in judgment. Instead, “lustfulness” represents an ingrained pattern of behavior, or a characteristic quality that serves to distinguish these individuals.
The following Biblical commentator shares several insights on this passage that are well worth our attention…
“False teachers who know not the truth and know not God have nothing to restrain their lusts. They particularly mock the second coming of Jesus Christ because they want to pursue impure sexual pleasure without consequence, or without having to face divine retribution. They want an eschatology that fits their conduct (cf. 1Jn 2:28, 29; 3:2, 3).” (2)
Image Credit: Cheapthrill, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
(1) Wheaton, David H. “2 Peter.” In The New Bible Commentary, Revised. Third edition. Edited by Donald Guthrie and J. A. Motyer. Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1970. p. 1257. Quoted in Notes on 2 Peter 2024 Edition, Dr. Thomas L. Constable https://www.planobiblechapel.org/tcon/notes/html/nt/2peter/2peter.htm
(2) John F. MacArthur Jr., The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible. (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2006), 2 Pe 3:3.
“and saying, ‘Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation’” (2 Peter 3:4).
It is often easy to associate false teachers or heretical doctrines with cultic organizations or strange religious sects. However, false teachings aren’t limited to such groups- they can come from a variety of other sources as well. You see, false teachers may also exist among the irreligious or the spiritually indifferent. For instance, 2 Peter 3:4 offers a Biblical example of a false teaching that came packaged as something else.
This passage gives us insight into the skepticism of those who dismissed the notion of Jesus’ return by pointing to the lengthy period that has elapsed since His crucifixion and resurrection. Unfortunately, that view is diametrically opposed to the Biblical teaching regarding Jesus’ second advent. We can thus associate this secular mindset with a false teaching, for such individuals operate under the mistaken belief that “…everything has remained the same since the world was first created” (NLT).
While the question posed in 2 Peter 3:4 may represent an honest question for some, it also represents an attitude of presumptuous skepticism for many others. Those who fall into that latter category comprise the mockers or “scoffers” mentioned earlier in verse three. Such questions aren’t based on a genuine desire to learn or understand. Instead, their intent is to ridicule.
This pretentious viewpoint assumes that nothing has changed in the past, and nothing is likely to change in the foreseeable future as well. That represents an opinion that the Apostle Peter will address over the next few verses. In the meantime, we can say that the more frequently we observe these types of behaviors, the closer we are to Christ’s return. As one source reminds us…
“Peter, like Paul (1Th 5:1f.; 2Th 2:1f. ), preached about the second coming (1:16; Ac 3:20f. ), as Jesus himself did repeatedly (Mt 24:34 ) and as the angels promised at the Ascension (Ac 1:11 ). Both Jesus and Paul (2Th 2:1f. ) were misunderstood on the subject of the time and the parables of Jesus urged readiness and forbade setting dates for his coming.” (1)
In contrast to those who choose to disregard the Biblical teachings related to Jesus’ second advent, it is important to live in anticipation of His return. Whether Christ returns for someone at the end of his or her life (whenever that occurs) or whether He returns to begin a new era of history, our responsibility is to be ready whenever He appears.
(1) 2 Peter 3 – Robertson’s Word Pictures in the New Testament – Bible Commentaries – StudyLight.org. (n.d.). StudyLight.org. https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/rwp/2-peter-3.html
“They will say, ‘Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation” (2 Peter 3:4 ESV).
2 Peter 3:4 and its reference to the “fathers [who] fell asleep” is an interesting and descriptive expression that deserves a closer look.
You see, the Scriptures occasionally employ the word “sleep” as a figurative reference to death. Mark 5:22-53 offers one such example in relating the account of a local religious leader whose daughter had fallen ill. Although Jesus graciously agreed to heal her, the young girl tragically succumbed to her illness prior to Jesus’ arrival at her home. Jesus thus arrived at a house that was populated by mourners and others who had gathered to express their condolences.
In response, Jesus answered by saying, “Why all this commotion and weeping? The child isn’t dead; she’s only asleep” (NLT). Those who heard this message reacted with laughter, scorn, and ridicule to that assessment. However, they stopped laughing after Jesus put them out of the house and returned the little girl alive to her parents.
The “fathers” mentioned here in 2 Peter 3:4 likely allude to the ancestral generations of many years ago. The idea is that the circle of life begins at conception and ends at death. While civilizations, technologies, and individual lives come and go, the treadmill of life goes on, according to this perspective.
However, that view has two fatal flaws. The first looks forward into the future and the second looks backward into the past. The first flawed assumption involves an indisputable truth: anything that can’t go on forever, won’t go on forever. (1) In other words, the supposed absence of change in the past does not mean things can’t or won’t change in the future. The world in its present form cannot go on forever, and even if it does continue past our lifetimes, we are still left with the prospect of confronting an unknown eternity after a few brief decades of life (at best). So this approach is not only flawed, but depressing as well.
The other flawed assumption is that things have remained unchanged in the past. The Apostle Peter will address that view in the following verse, but for now, we should not permit the routine of daily life to lull us into the false assumption that tomorrow will be the same as yesterday, or the days that preceded it. Instead, we would do well to adapt Jesus’ cautionary message from Luke 12:40…
“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Image Credit: Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
(1) Sometimes referred to as “Stein’s Law.” See Quoteresearch. (2018, April 28). If Something Cannot Go On Forever It Will Stop – Quote Investigator®. https://quoteinvestigator.com/2018/04/28/go-on/Accessed 3 September, 2024
“This will be their line of argument: ‘So Jesus promised to come back, did he? Then where is he? He’ll never come! Why, as far back as anyone can remember, everything has remained exactly as it was since the first day of creation’” (2 Peter 3:4 NLT).
The assertion that “the world remains unchanged” here in 2 Peter 3:4 predates a contemporary theory regarding the processes that have helped shape our present world. That theory asserts that “the present is the key to the past.” The following commentators discuss its relevance to our text from this passage…
“This argument against the second coming of Christ is based on the theory of uniformitarianism, which says that all natural phenomena have operated uniformly since the beginning of the earth. The false teachers were also implying that God is absent from earth affairs.
In effect, they were teaching that, ‘There will not be a great cataclysmic judgmental event at the end of history, because that is not how the universe works. There never has been such a judgment, so why should we expect one in the future? Instead, everything in the universe is stable, closed, fixed, and governed by never varying patterns and principles of evolution. Nothing catastrophic has ever happened in the past, so nothing catastrophic ever will happen in the future. There will be no divine invasion, no supernatural judgment on mankind.’” (1)
“Their conclusion is based on the careless hypothesis that ‘since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.’ They say that nature invariably follows uniform laws, that there are no supernatural interventions, that there is a natural explanation for everything. They believe in the law of uniformitarianism. This law states that existing processes in nature have always acted in the same manner and with essentially the same intensity as at present, and that these processes are sufficient to account for all the changes that have taken place.” (2)
By studying the processes of the present, we can often gain valuable insight into the past. However, it is hazardous to presume that all such processes are solely the result of natural causes. The Scriptures tell us that God has previously intervened in world history in a significant manner and will do so again in the future. Our final source guides us toward a better understanding of this concept…
“A valid application of the principle that ‘the present is the key to the past’ is that ‘the kinds of causes known to produce certain kinds of effects in the present can be assumed to produce similar kinds of effects in the past.’ But… this principle does not rule out a credible belief in past miracles, even if no such miracles exist in the present. This use misapplies the principle.” (3)
Image Credit: Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
(1) John F. MacArthur Jr., The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible. (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2006), 2 Pe 3:4.
(2) William Macdonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary Edited by Arthur Farstad, Thomas Nelson Publishers [note on 2 Peter 3:4]
(3) Geisler, N. L. 1999. Baker Encyclopedia of Christian Apologetics. Baker reference library. Baker Books: Grand Rapids, Mich. See Troeltsch, Ernst
“For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water” (2 Peter 3:5-6).
The prominent lyricist Paul Simon once observed that, “…a man hears what he wants to hear and disregards the rest.” (1) That poetic observance aptly describes 2 Peter 3:5 and its reference to those who “willfully forget.” This serves to identify someone who makes a volitional choice to ignore God’s past intervention into the affairs of His creation.
Today, we might associate this approach with the 21st century concept of “plausible deniability.” This involves an attempt to disavow any knowledge or responsibility for the actions taken by others. While that strategy may succeed with limited human beings, we cannot hide behind the cloak of plausible deniability when facing an omniscient God who knows our every thought and deed.
One translation underscores this attitude of willful neglect in stating that God’s involvement in the affairs of human history “…escapes their notice” (NASB). This does not refer to a minor detail or an insignificant item that might be overlooked. Instead, several commentators highlight the deliberate and intentional nature of that mindset…
“A more precise translation would be, ‘They persistently (Greek progressive present) ignore one obvious fact.’” (2)
“It was a culpable ignorance.” (3)
“This term has the connotation of forgetting something or hiding something; therefore, an intent of purposefulness is contained in the term (cf. 2 Pet. 1:9; 3:5,8).” (4)
“‘Escapes their notice’ in the Greek means forgets purposely by disregarding information.” (5)
“[T]hey do not wish to know. Their ignorance is voluntary.” (6)
So those who adopt this mentality purposely forget that things are not the same as they ever were. God is not like the proverbial watchmaker who “wound up the universe” and then left it to run on its own. In fact, the reality is quite the reverse- God has intervened throughout the course of history, as seen most notably in the example of Noah’s flood.
Thus, the world as we know it has not always existed as it does today. There have been cataclysmic occurrences in the past, and such things will occur again in the future, as the Apostle Peter will remind us over the next few verses of this chapter. While such things may have escaped others’ notice, we should take care to ensure they do not escape our notice. (7)
(1) The Boxer. © 1968 Words and Music by Paul Simon
(2) Edward E. Hindson and Woodrow Michael Kroll, eds., KJV Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1994), 2625.
(3) Kenneth S. Wuest, Word Studies in the Greek New Testament (note on 2 Peter 3:8) Copyright © 1942-55 by Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
(4) Dr. Bob Utley. Free Bible Commentary, Copyright © 2014 Bible Lessons International 2 Peter 3. (n.d.). http://www.freebiblecommentary.org/new_testament_studies/VOL02/VOL02B_09.html
(5) Constable, Thomas. DD. “Commentary on 2 Peter 3”. “Dr. Constable’s Expository Notes”. https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/dcc/2-peter-3.html. 2012.
(6) Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary: Second Peter. (n.d.). https://www.ccel.org/j/jfb/jfb/JFB61.htm
(7) Ibid.
“They purposely ignore the fact that long ago God gave a command, and the heavens and earth were created. The earth was formed out of water and by water, and it was also by water, the water of the flood, that the old world was destroyed” (2 Peter 3:5-6 GNB).
2 Peter 3:5 draws our attention to God’s sovereign act of creation in establishing the heavens and the earth. Unlike those who believe that the universe is a product of random chance, this passage tells us, “…God gave a command, and the heavens and earth were created.” Nevertheless, the “random chance” theory of origin is one that merits further investigation.
For instance, many believe that the universe came into existence through an arbitrary process. This idea suggests that the universe could have formed by chance if given a sufficient amount of time. But let’s consider this premise for a moment. In this context, the word “chance” conveys the statistical probability that something will occur. However, this explanation fails if we apply it to the notion that the universe came into existence through random chance.
The problem is that chance by itself is powerless. For example, let’s consider a scenario where two individuals are engaged in a card game. Person one shuffles the deck of cards and then deals a random selection of cards to person two. With this in mind, let’s ask a few relevant questions…
- Did random chance manipulate or control the cards person two received?
- Can “the power of chance” direct specific cards to player two?
- Does “chance” possess the ability to ensure that person two received a pre-determined sequence of cards?
The answer to these questions is obviously no. In this context, chance simply describes the statistical likelihood that one type of card will be dealt instead of another. This illustration helps explain why “random chance” cannot be responsible for the existence of the universe. Chance doesn’t make things happen; it only describes the probability that something will happen.
Here’s another way to demonstrate this idea. Let’s imagine that someone flips a coin in the air. If we flip a coin in the air, the chance that it will land on “heads” is 50%. (1) However, “chance” doesn’t make a coin land that way. Instead, that outcome will depend on several variables. Those variables include the size, shape, and weight of the coin. Other contributing factors include the number of revolutions the coin makes, the environmental conditions, and the surface upon which the coin lands.
The point is that “chance” will not make a coin land on heads or tails- that will be determined by other factors. Chance only describes the statistical probability that a coin will land in a certain manner. In the same way, the idea that “random chance” brought the universe into existence is unsustainable because chance has no ability to “do” anything.
Image Credit: “Dice 04” by Thomas Dippel is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
(1) For the purpose of this illustration, we will discount the nominal possibility that a coin will land on its edge after it is flipped.
“But they deliberately forget that long ago by God’s word the heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed” (2 Peter 3:5-6).
This description of the earth’s formation draws our attention to the creation account of Genesis chapter one…
“Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters” (Genesis 1:2 NIV).
Other translations of Genesis 1:2 tell us that the earth was “…without form and void…” (ESV) or “…a shapeless, chaotic mass…” (TLB) at this stage in its development. This lends support to the idea that God first established the components that later became the universe as we know it (Genesis 1:1). For instance, we might interpret this passage to mean that the constituent elements of creation were suspended in a formless, fluid state during this phase. Yet, Earth seems to have been separate and distinct almost from the moment of creation.
One source offers some insight into what likely occurred during that process…
“In the first stage of creation, after the second day, the earth material was surrounded by vast waters above the firmament and suspended in other waters under the firmament {Ge 1:7). The waters beneath the ‘firmament’ (the ‘expanse’ of the troposphere) later were either formed into seas or confined in a ‘great deep’ beneath the earth’s crust. This regime apparently continued until the time of the great flood when they all came together again. Until then the earth was ‘standing’ (Greek sunistemi- that is, being ‘sustained’) in and by the waters.” (1)
This also corresponds to what we read later in Genesis 7:10-12. That portion of Scripture tells us “…all the underground waters erupted from the earth” (NLT) at the time of Noah’s flood. The sudden emergence of those underground pockets of water would have led to the catastrophic results associated with the flood.
So it wasn’t just the falling rain that produced Noah’s flood. Instead, it was the torrential downpour from above, coupled with the corresponding surge from the water table below.
So while life on this planet cannot survive without the presence of water, it is a curious irony to note how God employed that same element as a catalyst for the destruction of the ancient world along with the wickedness of its inhabitants. Thus, “…it was by means of these the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished” (ESV).
Image Credit: James St. John, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
(1) Institute for Creation Research, New Defender’s Study Bible Notes [2 Peter 3:5] https://www.icr.org/bible/2Pet/3/5/ Accessed 02 September, 2024
“But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men” (2 Peter 3:7).
If we were to subtitle our look at this portion of Scripture, we might do so with the following caption: “That was then, this is now.”
The preceding verse introduced the “then” portion of our fictional subtitle when we were told, “…the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished” (2 Peter 3:6 ESV). The “now” portion references the fact that “…heaven and earth are now held in reserve for fire, kept for the Judgment Day and destruction of ungodly people” (CEB).
Although this cataclysmic end-time event tends to command the most attention, there is another aspect of this passage that also reveals a great display of power: “…the heavens and the earth that now exist are being preserved by the same command of God” (GNT). So just as God spoke creation into existence through His word, this verse tells us that He continues to sustain His creation in a similar manner.
Nevertheless, that sustaining effort will continue only as long as God sees fit. When God ceases to maintain the current form of the heavens and earth, He will use fire as His chosen element of dissolution. This imagery should be familiar to readers of the Old and New Testaments alike. For example, the book of the Old Testament prophet Nahum alludes to the fiery presence of God…
“In his presence the mountains quake, and the hills melt away; the earth trembles, and its people are destroyed. Who can stand before his fierce anger? Who can survive his burning fury? His rage blazes forth like fire, and the mountains crumble to dust in his presence” (Nahum 1:5-6 NLT).
A similar image appears in the New Testament epistle of 2 Thessalonians…
“And so I would say to you who are suffering, God will give you rest along with us when the Lord Jesus appears suddenly from heaven in flaming fire with his mighty angels, bringing judgment on those who do not wish to know God and who refuse to accept his plan to save them through our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thessalonians 1:7-8 TLB).
Finally, this catastrophic act of destruction is more than just an event that is destined to occur in the remote future. Instead, the Apostle Peter is building towards a present-day application that he will bring to our attention shortly in verse eleven.
Image Credit: “flaming gold” by paloetic is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
“But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day” (2 Peter 3:8).
In midst of the fiery images that precede and follow this passage, the Apostle Peter was quick to reassure his readers that they were among God’s beloved. Yet, this passage also includes a reminder that provides us with an opportunity to consider the nature of time, a familiar commodity that is often difficult to define.
For instance, we can kill time, buy time, or pass the time. Musicians keep time and athletes call time out. Some have time on their hands, while others never seem to have enough. Employees and others can spend time or steal time. Time can be free or expensive, good or bad, wasted or invested, and lost or found. So we can view time in different ways, but what is it?
Well, the notion of “time” encompasses more than just the measurement of hours and days. Time is a “continuous, measurable quantity in which events occur in a sequence proceeding from the past through the present to the future.” (1) But here in 2 Peter 3:8, we’re reminded that God exists outside the constraints of time. Since God is timeless, He does not experience sequential events that proceed from the past through the present to the future as we do.
There are several other factors that highlight the contrast between our experience of time and that of God. For example, things like mass, acceleration, and gravity may affect our measurement of time. Our perception of time may also differ, for time may seem to pass slowly for those who are involved in an unpleasant task, but rapidly for those who are engaged in something they enjoy. So, if finite human beings experience these variations in relation to time, we should not be surprised to learn that the Creator of time also relates differently to it.
To illustrate this, Peter reached back to the Old Testament to bring forth a related reference: “For a thousand years in Your sight Are like yesterday when it is past, And like a watch in the night” (Psalm 90:4). Thus, a seemingly long delay for us may be just be a moment for God. This reminds us that we should not adopt the attitude of a scoffer who assumes “…everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation” as mentioned earlier in verse three. In the words of one source, “To Him the hours pass away, neither more slowly, nor more quickly, than befits His economy.” (2)
Image Credit: “Time” by Nick J Webb is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
(1) time. (n.d.) American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. (2011). Retrieved September 13 2024 from https://www.thefreedictionary.com/time
(2) Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary: Second Peter. (n.d.). [verse 8] https://www.ccel.org/j/jfb/jfb/JFB61.htm#Chapter3
“The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).
Earlier in verse three, Peter the Apostle addressed a question from scoffers who ridiculed those who were awaiting Jesus’ return: “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” One commentary highlights the distinction between those who adopt that dismissive attitude and others who raise valid concerns about the perceived delay in Jesus’ return…
“There is considerable difference between the question ‘where is the promise of His coming?’ and ‘when is the Lord coming?’ The former is of the unbeliever and the latter is of a perplexed believer.” (1)
With this in mind, we should recognize that it is neither wrong nor inappropriate to ask questions regarding this subject. For instance, the following commentator defines this reference to “slackness”: “The word implies, besides delay, the idea of lateness with reference to an appointed time.” (2) If we are similarly puzzled by this apparent delay, then perhaps we may benefit from a change of perspective.
If we desire to know why Jesus has not returned in the centuries that have elapsed since His death and resurrection, we need look no further than 2 Peter 3:9 for the answer. As seen in the passage quoted above, “…he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (NIV). This directs our attention to an important point. Instead of focusing on the apparent delay in Christ’s return, we may do better to set our sights on what He seeks to accomplish during this interim period.
One source highlights the beneficial nature of this approach…
“The point of 2 Peter 3 is that, no matter how long it takes, God will keep His word—’the Lord is not slow in keeping his promises’ (verse 8)—specifically, He will return one day to judge the world and rescue His people. The fact that it has not happened yet is absolutely no indication that He will not do it.” (3)
While it may seem as if Jesus’ second advent is taking longer than expected, we can be confident that there is a justifiable reason for any apparent delay. We can be certain that Christ will fulfill His promise to return, for we have His personal assurance in this regard…
“And after I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to myself, so that you will be where I am” (John 14:3 GNT).
(1) Earl D. Radmacher, Ronald Barclay Allen, and H. Wayne House, Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary (Nashville: T. Nelson Publishers, 1999), 1700.
(2) Vincent, Marvin R. DD. “Commentary on 2 Peter 3”. “Vincent’s Word Studies in the New Testament”. https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/vnt/2-peter-3.html. [verse 9[ Charles Schribner’s Sons. New York, USA. 1887.
(3) GotQuestions.org. (2022, September 19). GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/2-Peter-3-8-thousand-years-day.html
“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).
While this passage is notable for the controversy it stirs with regard to the relationship between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility, there is another aspect of this verse that may go virtually unnoticed from a 21st century perspective.
Among the heretical teachers of the first century, there were undoubtedly some who viewed the acquisition of “secret knowledge” as the key to spiritual enlightenment. However, 2 Peter 3:9 tells us that God does not hide His plan of salvation from a larger audience in favor of a select few. Instead, God’s call to salvation through Christ is open to all who will accept it.
Thankfully, God is patient with the members of the human family and not willing that any should perish, as we are told in the passage quoted above. For instance, we can illustrate the depth of God’s patience with a look at His attitude toward the people of Old Testament Israel. Consider the following lament as expressed through the pen of the Biblical prophet Isaiah: “But concerning Israel he says, ‘All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and obstinate people’” (Isaiah 65:2 NIV).
With unparalleled patience, God continues to extend His hands to us through Christ. But let’s approach this gracious gesture from a human point of view and reflect upon our own relationships with others. If one person extends his or her hand to another in a gesture of friendship, it would be highly offensive to ignore or reject it. If such is the case among human beings in their relationships with one another, how much more insulting is it for the Creator of humanity to be rejected in a similar manner?
Furthermore, we should note that God stretches forth His hands in an offer of friendship even to those who are obstinate and disobedient. One pastoral commentator adds the following insight…
“We understand that God is not willing that any should perish not in the sense of a divine decree, as if God has declared that no sinners will perish. Rather, Peter’s statement reflects God’s heart of love for the world (John 3:16), and His compassionate sorrow even in the righteous judgment of the wicked. It is the same thought as expressed in Ezekiel 33:11: As I live, says the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live.” (1)
(1) Enduring Word. (2022, July 13). Enduring Word Bible Commentary 2 Peter Chapter 3. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/2-peter-3/
“The Lord is not slow concerning his promise, as some regard slowness, but is being patient toward you, because he does not wish for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9 NET).
We can work through several challenging aspects of this passage with the help of various commentators. Our first source sets an appropriate foundation for our look at this verse…
“[The Lord] can’t be waiting for everyone to be saved, since the emphasis is that He will destroy the world and the ungodly. Those who do perish and go to hell, go because they are depraved and worthy only of hell and have rejected the only remedy, Jesus Christ, not because they were created for hell and predetermined to go there. The path to damnation is the path of a non-repentant heart; it is the path of one who rejects the person and provision of Jesus Christ and holds on to sin (cf. Is 55:1; Jer 13:17; Eze 18:32; Mt 11:28; 23:37; Lk 13:3; Jn 3:16; 8:21, 24; 1Ti 2:3, 4; Rev 22:17).” (1)
Another commentary directs our attention to the tension between God’s desire (or His desiderative will), and what He decrees (or His decretive will)…
“Unless God’s will is viewed on the two planes of his desiderative and decretive will (what he desires and what he decrees), hopeless confusion will result. The scriptures amply illustrate both that God sometimes decrees things that he does not desire and desires things that he does not decree. It is not that his will can be thwarted, nor that he has limited his sovereignty. But the mystery of God’s dealings with humanity is best seen if this tension is preserved. Otherwise, either God will be perceived as good but impotent or as a sovereign taskmaster. Here the idea that God does not wish for any to perish speaks only of God’s desiderative will, without comment on his decretive will.” (2)
Our final commentator addresses this reference to “those who perish” in response to an age-old question: “How can a good God send people to hell?”
“This question assumes that God sends people to hell against their will. But this is not the case. God desires everyone to be saved (see 2 Peter 3:9). Those who are not saved do not will to be saved. Jesus said, ‘O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing’ (Matthew 23:37). As C. S. Lewis put it, ‘The door of hell is locked on the inside.’ All who go there choose to do so. Lewis added: ‘There are only two kinds of people in the end: those who say to God, ‘Thy will be done,’ and those to whom God says, in the end,’ Thy will be done.’ All that are in hell, choose it.’” (3)
(1) John F. MacArthur Jr., The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible. (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2006), 2 Pe 3:9.
(2) NET Bible notes on 2 Peter 3:9 https://netbible.org/bible/2+Peter+3
(3) Zacharias, R., & Geisler, N. L. (2003). Who Made God?: And Answers to Over 100 Other Tough Questions of Faith. Zondervan. [pg. 30]
“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up” (2 Peter 3:10).
Considering how often the “day of the Lord” appears within the Scriptures, this term is one that warrants careful consideration. For instance, this phrase appears in both the Old and New Testaments to describe God’s wrath (Isaiah 13:9), God’s judgment (1 Thessalonians 5:3), a time of destruction (Joel 1:15), and a day of reprisal for those who have committed transgressions (Obadiah 1:15).
The prophet Joel depicted the day of the Lord as a “great and very terrible” event (Joel 2:11). Several other Biblical authors shared that characterization, including the Old Testament prophets Ezekiel, Amos, Zephaniah, and Malachi. Those writers associated the “day of the Lord” with corresponding descriptions such as, “doom,” “darkness,” “trouble and distress,” and “dreadful.”
In the New Testament epistle of 1 Thessalonians, the day of the Lord is linked with the events that will accompany Jesus’ return (1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:2). Three commentators add their insights into this important Biblical concept…
“The prominent idea associated with that Day in the Old Testament, and in this passage as well, is that of ‘judgment’ and destruction upon the enemies of God. This stands in striking contrast to the previous passage (4:13–18), where the emphasis was hope and resurrection. The difference of course is one of focus; it depends upon whether believers or unbelievers are in view.” (1)
“In the OT the writers saw two ages, an evil age and a coming age of righteousness, the age of the Spirit. God would intervene in history through His Messiah to set up this new age. This event was known as the ‘Day of the Lord.’ Notice that NT writers attribute this to Christ. His first coming, the Incarnation, was foretold in many OT texts. The Jews did not expect a divine person, just a divine intervention. The two comings of the Messiah, one as suffering servant and savior, one as Judge and Lord, were not obvious to OT people.” (2)
“Christ has already passed through the judgment of the day of the Lord for believers, so they need not fear His return (Heb. 9:27, 28). Unbelievers, however, will feel the wrath of God when the day of the Lord is consummated at the second coming of Christ.” (3)
Portions of this study originally appeared here.
(1) Hindson, E. E., & Kroll, W. M. (Eds.). (1994). KJV Bible Commentary (p. 2480). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
(2) Dr. Bob Utley. Free Bible Commentary, 1 Thessalonians 5:2 Copyright © 2014 Bible Lessons International http://www.freebiblecommentary.org/new_testament_studies/VOL07/VOL07B_05.html
(3) Sproul, R. C. (Ed.). (2015). The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (2015 Edition) (p. 2138). Orlando, FL: Reformation Trust.
“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare” (2 Peter 3:10 NIV).
In the context of this passage from 2 Peter 3:10, the “day of the Lord” signifies the future dissolution of the universe, or “space” as we know it today. We find similar expressions of this idea in the book of the Old Testament prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 65:17), as well as the New Testament book of Revelation (Revelation 21:1). The Biblical book of Colossians also touches upon this subject in speaking of Jesus in the following manner: “He is before all things, and by Him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:17).
So Jesus is not only the executor of creation, He is the one who holds creation together. Colossians 1:17 thus provides us with an insight of astonishing proportions: Jesus personally sustains everything that exists in the material realm. This striking reality brings an important perspective to our text from 2 Peter 3:10. If Jesus were to refrain from holding everything together, it would surely generate the result described here in 2 Peter.
While it may be unsettling to contemplate a future that ends with universal destruction, this should not lead to hopelessness or despair. God has better things in store, as we’ll learn shortly. Instead, these future realities should motivate us to act proactively and make choices that honor God today. To illustrate this, our author will pose a question in the following verse and then proceed to answer it himself…
“Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives” (2 Peter 3:11 NIV).
We’ll return to this verse from 2 Peter 3:11 shortly. But for now, we can also approach this reference to the day of the Lord from a different perspective. You see, “the day of the Lord” also arrives in a multitude of human lives each day. In this sense, the day of the Lord occurs whenever someone departs from this earthly life and enters the realm of eternity.
For some, that day arrives “like a thief” in the form of a sudden or untimely death. Thus, the day of the Lord did not represent a distant event in the far-off future for those who pass in this manner. Instead, it became the day when someone was abruptly summoned to face his or her Creator with no further opportunity to reverse the choices and decisions of life.
Since every material possession we own will eventually dissolve, those who act upon this message from 2 Peter 3:10-11 will be well prepared to answer that call to eternity whenever it arrives.
Image Credit: “The countdown clock struck zero and the launch happened and” by G0SUB is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
“The day of the Lord will come like a thief. On that day heaven will pass away with a roaring sound. Everything that makes up the universe will burn and be destroyed. The earth and everything that people have done on it will be exposed” (2 Peter 3:10 GW).
The twenty-fourth chapter of the gospel of Matthew is dedicated exclusively to the subject of end-time events. That portion of Scripture also records a message from Jesus to His disciples regarding the importance of being prepared for His eventual return. A closer look at that message reveals an analogy followed by a warning…
“But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Luke 12:39-40).
The Apostle Peter drew upon this imagery of an unexpected thief here in 2 Peter 3:10. As mentioned earlier, Paul the Apostle made use of a similar illustration in the New Testament epistle of 1 Thessalonians, as did the Apostle John in the book of Revelation. These references serve to remind us that we should live in anticipation of Jesus’ return whenever it might take place. As one source observes, “Knowing how to live in preparation for the Lord’s return is more important than knowing the timing of His return (Acts 1:6–7).“ (1)
Here in 2 Peter 3:10, we’re told that the constituent elements that make up the physical universe will dissolve when that day arrives. This reference to “Everything that makes up the universe…” pertains to the elemental components of physical matter. This probably alludes to some type of dissolution in the atomic structure of material things.
Finally, two sensory events will accompany this cataclysmic event: fire and sound. Taken together, this seems to reflect an event of tremendous explosive power, one that will be seen, heard, (and likely) felt. As with our earlier reference to an unexpected thief, there are other Biblical allusions to this event in the Old Testaments books of Haggai (2:6-7), Isaiah (13:13), and the New Testament epistle to the Hebrews.
2 Peter 3:10 thus completes a quartet of four Biblical witnesses who testify to the reality of this all-encompassing, catastrophic event. Therefore, these passages should inform our thinking regarding the investments we make today with respect to our time, our relationships, our finances, our material possessions, and other aspects of our daily lives.
(1) Barry, J. D., Mangum, D., Brown, D. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Ritzema, E., … Bomar, D. (2012, 2016). Faithlife Study Bible (1 Th 5:1). Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.
“But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief; on that day the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, the elements will burn and be dissolved, and the earth and the works on it will be disclosed” (2 Peter 3:10 HCSB).
While this verse describes the dissolution of the material universe, there is another aspect of this passage that should not escape our attention. When the elements of this universe are dissolved in this manner, they will take every aspect of human society (both ancient and modern) with them when they go.
As human civilizations have developed, it’s worth considering the remarkable achievements of humanity. From the metropolises of the world and their architectural wonders, to the technological advancements of modern-day society, we can look upon the extraordinary breadth of human achievement with great admiration.
For instance, there are talented and gifted human beings who have made outstanding contributions to music, culture, and the arts. Current and former athletes are widely recognized and admired for their exceptional abilities. Learned scientists and amateur inventors have contributed to technological breakthroughs of every sort. Skillful medical practitioners continue to rescue others from the ravages of disease. These achievements are rightly celebrated and should inspire us to express our thankfulness to the God who has blessed us with men and women who possess these exceptional capabilities.
Yet, in the words of Jesus, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away” (Matthew 24:35 CSB). Thus, every material achievement of humanity will pass away with the heavens and earth when they dissolved. But Jesus’ teachings, and the works inspired by them, will live on. With this in mind, Jesus’ counsel from Matthew 6:19-21 bears repeating…
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21).
Our text from 2 Peter 3:10 reminds us that the best investments are the ones that are made in view of eternity. We should thus prioritize our business endeavors, our finances, and our material possessions in light of these things. As we read in another portion of Scripture…
“Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life” (1 Timothy 6:18-19).
Image Credit: Investments by Nick Youngson CC BY-SA 3.0 Alpha Stock Images
“Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness” (2 Peter 3:11).
The apocalyptic images described earlier in 2 Peter 3:10 lay the foundation for the practical application given to us here in 2 Peter 3:11. Since all our material possessions will eventually dissolve, our author brings forth a thought-provoking question: “What kind of people ought you to be?” He then provides the answer himself: “You ought to live holy and godly lives.”
Unlike those who choose to disregard the Biblical teachings on this subject, it is important to live with these realities in mind. Consider the following warning from Jesus in the form this parable from the Gospel of Luke…
“Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. I tell you the truth, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the second or third watch of the night.
But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
Peter asked, ‘Lord, are you telling this parable to us, or to everyone?’ The Lord answered, ‘Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns. I tell you the truth, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.
But suppose the servant says to himself, ‘My master is taking a long time in coming,’ and he then begins to beat the menservants and maidservants and to eat and drink and get drunk. The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers” (Luke 12:35-46 NIV).
This parable, along with our text from 2 Peter 3:11, reminds us of the need to live in “holy conduct and godliness” (CSB) with a view towards eternity.
“looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat?” (2 Peter 3:12).
There are several ways we can approach the various themes within this passage. The first is relatively simple and clear: God’s people should look for Christ’s return in advance of this coming day of God. However, this does not mean we should seek to associate a date with Jesus’ return. As Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 24:36, “Now concerning that day and hour no one knows–neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son–except the Father only” (HCSB). Instead, every generation should wait expectantly for Jesus’ second advent.
Next, we have this reference to “…hastening the coming of the day of God.” “Hastening” conveys several related ideas including “to urge on,” “impel,” or “to be eager for the arrival” of something. (1) While some may view this approaching day of God with a sense of dread, Jesus’ followers should eagerly embrace its arrival. For instance, Jesus once explained the underlying differences between those mindsets…
“…everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God” (John 3:20-21).
We can also view this reference to “hastening” from a different perspective. As we’ve already seen, the word “hasten” is used to describe an attempt to expedite an action or activity. In light of this, our text from 2 Peter 3:12 underscores the need to avoid a passive mindset in anticipation of that day. Instead, we should actively employ the talents, skills, abilities, gifts, and opportunities that God has graciously given us for use in His service today.
As one source observes, “…[Its] not that God’s eternal appointment of the time is changeable, but God appoints us as instruments of accomplishing those events which must be first before the day of God can come.” (2)
Finally, this reference to “the day of God” invites a comparison to Jesus’ experience in the Garden of Gethsemane. When Jesus was seized in Gethsemane, He said to those who came to arrest Him, “…Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs? When I was with you daily in the temple, you did not try to seize Me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness” (Luke 22:52-53). So even though Jesus’ enemies had their hour in the waning days of His earthly life, 2 Peter 3:12 tells us that God will have His day in the future.
Image Credit: Opportunity by Nick Youngson CC BY-SA 3.0Alpha Stock Images
(1) G4692 speudo. Mounce Concise Greek-English Dictionary of the New Testament https://www.billmounce.com/greek-dictionary/speudo
(2) Jamieson, F. &. B. (2000, February 19). Commentary on 2 Peter 3. Blue Letter Bible. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/jfb/2Pe/2Pe_003.cfm
“Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13).
Matthew Henry, the great 17th century commentator, posed a thought-provoking question regarding this passage: “What will become of us, if we set our affections on this earth, and make it our portion, seeing all these things shall be burned up? Therefore make sure of happiness beyond this visible world.” (1) Since God promises to establish a new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells, we would do well to prepare for that future today.
However, 2 Peter 3:13 is not the only Biblical passage that speaks of this future reality. For instance, the book of the Old Testament prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 65:17, Isaiah 66:22) and the New Testament book of Revelation (Revelation 21:1) also reference this promise of a new heavens and earth as well. This word “new” does not simply refer to the latest or most recent version of something. Instead, this word expresses the idea of something fresh and unworn.
So, unlike the unscrupulous advertiser who markets a “new” product that is little more than an old product dressed up in a different package, the new heavens and new earth will be pristine and unspoiled. If we were to employ some technical jargon to describe this future event, we might say that God will not simply “power off” the current universe and “reboot” it. Instead, He will completely rewrite its operating system.
Since these new heavens and earth will be a place where righteousness dwells, it will be completely uncorrupted by anything that is wrong, dirty, or impure. The Biblical book of Romans contrasts our present reality with this future reality in the following manner: “Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay” (Romans 8:20-21 NLT). Thus, we can look forward to a time when God will make all things as they should be once again.
Finally, two commentators remind us of the need to maintain the right perspective regarding Biblical passages (such as 2 Peter 3:13) that reference future events…
“Christians need to remember the ultimate, ‘bottom-line,’ purpose of biblical eschatology [the study of future end times things]: to make us better Christians here and now.” [a]
“The purpose of prophetic truth is not speculation but motivation…” [b] (2)
Image Credit: Neji, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
(1) Matthew Henry: Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible – Christian Classics Ethereal Library. (n.d.). https://ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhcc/mhcc.liii.iii.html
(2) [a] Douglas J. Moo, 2 Peter and Jude, p. 202. [b] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, 2:466. Quoted in Notes on 2 Peter 2024 Edition, Dr. Thomas L. Constable https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/html/2peter/2peter.htm
“But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13 NIV).
In Matthew 5:6, Jesus offered the following assurance: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied” (ESV). Those who will inhabit the new heavens and earth referenced here in 2 Peter 3:13 can thus look forward to the fulfillment of that promise from the Gospel of Matthew. However, our text from 2 Peter also presents us with a contemporary application as well.
When this world is eventually replaced by “…a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells,” the wisdom that characterizes our world is destined to crumble alongside it. For instance, our world places great value on the things we possess. If a person has great athletic ability, physical attractiveness, or financial wealth (to name a few examples), then society often views that person as someone who possesses worth.
However, 2 Peter 3:13 tells us that the value system of the new heavens and earth will be very different. There, the focus will be on who we are and not on what we possess. Those who choose to build their lives on the moral philosophies of this “adulterous and sinful generation” (to use Jesus’ terminology from Mark 8:38) will thus be left with no recourse.
As long as this world remains in its current state, there are sure to be many who view its wisdom as something practical, sensible, and expedient. But when this world is succeeded by “…a world filled with God’s righteousness” (NLT), the wisdom that reflects the priorities of our world will collapse as well. Therefore, those who live for Christ and follow His example today will be blessed and satisfied with the world He will establish then.
While the reasoning of this world presents a semblance of wisdom, that type of wisdom often fails to account for the eternal consequences of our decisions. One commentary addresses this shortcoming in the context of our passage from 2 Peter 3:13…
“The old cosmic system will then give way to a new heaven and a new earth and this is what believers are looking forward to (cf. 2Pe_3:12, 2Pe_3:14), not to the earth’s destruction. The new heaven and new earth, given by the promise of God, will finally be the home or dwelling place of righteousness (lit., ‘in which righteousness dwells permanently’). It will be the home of righteousness because the Righteous One will be there (Jer_23:5-7; Jer_33:16; Dan_9:24; Rev_21:1, Rev_21:8, Rev_21:27). What a contrast this will be to the world’s unrighteousness.” (2)
(1) John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck, Bible Knowledge Commentary, note on 2 Peter 3:13
“Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless” (2 Peter 3:14).
The New Testament book of Hebrews points us to another contemporary application of our text from 2 Peter chapter three: “For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come” (Hebrews 13:14 ESV). So much like a traveler who sees the end of his or her journey in the distance, these passages encourage us to focus upon our eternal destination as we live for Christ in this transitory world.
In addition to what we read in Hebrews 13:14, the Biblical book of Philippians offers a similar reminder:
“…our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20).
As we seek to represent Jesus faithfully in the course of our daily lives, we should live with the recognition that God’s people are sojourners (1 Peter 2:11) on the road to another destination. In view of the fact that our citizenship resides in heaven, we should conduct ourselves in a manner that exemplifies the ideals and principles of our true home. Thus, we should “…make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight” (NLT).
Since the world we inhabit now is not like the world that lies ahead, this passage reminds us of the need to prioritize our relationships, occupations, material possessions, and other affairs of life with a view towards eternity. Consider the following counsel from the Biblical book of 1 Timothy…
“Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life” (1 Timothy 6:18-19).
Finally, we have a descriptive turn of phrase that closes this verse: “without spot and blameless.” This serves to highlight the attributes that should characterize the people of God. Unlike the false teachers of the previous chapter (who were neither spotless nor blameless), our author encouraged his readers to pursue these qualities with diligence. 1 Peter 1:19 made use of a similar phrase in reference to Jesus, and thus recalls the words of Matthew 10:24-25…
“The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for students to be like their teachers, and servants like their masters…” (NIV).
“and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation–as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you” (2 Peter 3:15).
A look at the original language of this passage defines “longsuffering” in the following manner: “Longsuffering is that quality of self restraint in the face of provocation which does not hastily retaliate or promptly punish; it is the opposite of anger, and is associated with mercy, and is used of God…” (1) On those difficult days when we long to see God bring forth “…a new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells,” it is comforting to know that longsuffering is an emotional quality that God shares with His people.
Nevertheless, the Apostle Peter tells us that God’s longsuffering has a purpose: “the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation.” The following commentary brings an important perspective to this idea…
“The imperative of verse 15, account that the long-suffering of our Lord is salvation, encourages believers to recognize the fact that just because God’s day hasn’t come yet, they shouldn’t follow the false teachers in believing that it’s not going to come; they should think of it in God’s way: the longer He delays it, the more people can be saved.” (2)
This passage then moves on to a subject that will occupy our attention for much of our remaining time in this chapter. That subject involves the man who is better known to us today as the Apostle Paul. Peter’s depiction of Paul here in 2 Peter 3:15 serves to establish an important foundation for many of the observations that will follow.
Notice that Peter identified Paul as a “beloved brother” in this verse. This signals the absence of a competitive rivalry between these two great apostles. Instead, Peter publicly recognized Paul’s calling, as well as “…the wisdom given to him.” This may also account for the sudden shift in focus to a discussion of Paul’s writings in this passage.
You see, Paul echoed a similar sentiment regarding the purpose behind God’s longsuffering in the Biblical book of Romans. In one portion of that epistle, Paul asked the following question…
“Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4).
However, we’re about to find that there is considerably more to this verse (and those that follow) as we continue our exploration of this passage.
(1) makrothumia (G3115) Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words with Topical Index, W.E. Vine, © 1996, Thomas Nelson, Nashville, Tennessee. All rights reserved.
(2) Edward E. Hindson and Woodrow Michael Kroll, eds., KJV Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1994), 2627.
“as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures” (2 Peter 3:16).
We can begin our look at this passage by highlighting a few important observations. First, we can say that the Apostle Peter recognized and validated the divine origin of Paul the Apostle’s Biblical letters. Peter affirmed the God-inspired of nature those epistles when he acknowledged “…our dear brother Paul [who] also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him” (NIV) earlier in verse fifteen.
But Peter was not simply aware of those texts; either he had read those letters himself or he possessed enough knowledge about them to assert with confidence that Paul wrote “using the wisdom God gave him” (GW). Next, Peter associated those letters with “…the rest of the Scriptures” in the passage quoted above. This detail offers some insight into the origin of the New Testament canon of Scripture.
This word “canon” means “rule” or “rod of measurement.” Over time, this term came to represent the assembly of Biblical texts that were acknowledged to possess divine authority. For example, Biblical authors like Peter and Paul communicated by writing letters to a specific church or person, or for general distribution among many churches. Those recipients saved the letters they received and copied them for circulation among other churches. In fact, Paul endorsed this practice in one of his epistles when he said, “After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea” (Colossians 4:16).
We can also take comfort in Peter’s acknowledgment that Paul’s letters contained some things that were difficult to understand. This does not mean that Peter had difficulty understanding Paul’s epistles. However, he recognized the fact that it was no easy task to comprehend some of the spiritual truths contained within those letters. Of course, Peter understood such challenges all too well, for there were multiple instances when he and his fellow disciples struggled to grasp the meaning of Jesus’ teachings (see Mark 8:13-21, Mark 9:30-32, and John 16:16-18 for some examples).
Nevertheless, “hard to understand” is not the same as “impossible to understand.” We should not be deterred by the challenging nature of the some of the truths we encounter in the Scriptures, but instead seek God’s help in understanding and appropriating those truths in our lives.
“He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction” (2 Peter 3:16 NIV).
By highlighting some of the challenging aspects of Paul the Apostle’s Biblical letters, Peter directs our attention to a practical application from this passage. For example, some may justify their reluctance to read the Bible by claiming that it is too difficult to understand. But today’s age of technological advancement has made it increasingly difficult to rationalize that argument.
For instance, there are Biblical translations that cater to readers of all levels. Audio Bibles with skilled voiceover artists are widely accessible, with some online versions available at no charge. These advancements can help virtually anyone gain access to God’s Word in a manner that he or she can understand, remember, and apply.
So if we eliminate this objection, we may be left with a brutally honest truth: we don’t engage with God’s Word because we choose to prioritize other things. Some may not wish to invest the effort it takes to grasp and apply certain Biblical truths. Others may be hesitant to embrace the lifestyle changes that might accompany a better understanding of the Scriptures. In the alleged words of American humorist Mark Twain, “Some people are troubled by things in the Bible they can’t understand. What troubles me are the things I can understand.”
In such instances, honesty is the best policy. This means acknowledging our reluctance to read the Scriptures and humbly asking God to cultivate that desire within us. Good things in life rarely come easily, and our text from 2 Peter 3:16 alludes to the fact that we are likely to encounter Scriptural truths are are difficult to grasp. Nevertheless, God will surely reward the diligent student who faithfully attends to His Word.
A prayerful effort to understand God’s Word will yield several other important benefits. First, we will be well positioned to understand what we believe and why. A familiarity with the Bible will also help us identify and avoid the false teachers Peter discussed earlier in chapter two. Finally, we have an opportunity to discover fresh spiritual truths or new applications of familiar truths whenever we open the Scriptures.
Thus, in the wise words of one commentator, “…let us seek to have our minds prepared for receiving things hard to be understood, by putting in practice things which are more easy to be understood.” (1)
Image Credit: Pete unseth, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
(1) Matthew Henry: Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible – Christian Classics Ethereal Library. (n.d.). https://ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhcc/mhcc.liii.iii.html
“as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures” (2 Peter 3:16 ESV).
2 Peter 3:16 focuses on another important concern- the “…ignorant and unstable [who] have twisted [Paul’s] letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture” (NLT). This reference to “the ignorant” doesn’t necessarily refer to those who are uneducated. Instead, this designation implies that those individuals opted to rely on their own Biblical interpretations rather than seek God’s guidance in understanding His Word. That led to a distorted perception of the Scriptures that skewed their meaning and application.
One source identifies this second reference to the “unstable” in the following manner: “The ‘unstable’ (Gr. asteriktoi) are those who were not always consistent in their allegiance to God or the world, namely, double-minded, fence-straddling compromisers. These types of people misunderstood and, in some cases, deliberately misrepresented the meaning of Paul’s writings. However, this only added to their own guilt before God.” (1)
This also reminds us that context is important whenever we encounter those who seek to use a Biblical text to support their views. The word “context” refers to “the part of a text or statement that surrounds a particular word or passage and determines its meaning.” (2) In other words, the chapters and verses that surround a Biblical text help determine the meaning of that text. When verses are quoted outside their context, it is sometimes possible to make the Bible say some very unbiblical things.
For instance, it is possible to take an isolated portion of Scripture and quote it in a manner that makes it appear to support an erroneous position. Much like the false teachers chronicled here in 2 Peter chapter two, cultic organizations that claim an affinity with Christianity are widely recognized for this approach. Our text from 2 Peter 3:16 thus serves as a cautionary message, for those who intentionally follow that path are headed for certain destruction.
Finally, it’s important to recognize that this passage does not address various non-essential elements of the Christian faith. For instance, there are many areas where Christians of good conscience may reach different (but Biblically valid) conclusions on secondary aspects of belief and practice. Instead, this warning is directed toward those who deliberately twist, wrest (KJV), or distort (GW) Biblical truth. We’ll explore what it means to corrupt the truth in such a manner next.
Image Credit: Brett Jordan, Hermeneutical basics Context, context, context. https://www.flickr.com/photos/x1brett/page97 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/
(1) Dr. Thomas L. Constable, Notes on 2 Peter 2024 Edition. https://soniclight.com/tcon/notes/html/2peter/2peter.htm
(2) context. (n.d.) American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. (2011). Retrieved October 4 2024 from https://www.thefreedictionary.com/context
“As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction” (2 Peter 3:16 KJV).
This reference to “wresting” or “twisting” the Scriptures contains an illustrative word-picture that sheds light on the efforts of those who intentionally distort Biblical truth. In the original language of this passage, this word conveys the following idea: “to distort the limbs on a rack… to wrench, distort, pervert.” (1) So much like a sinister henchman who wrenched the limbs of a prisoner on a medieval torture rack, there are some who attempt to twist the Scriptures in a similar manner.
For his part, Paul the Apostle was clearly familiar with such efforts. In fact, Paul likely faced numerous attempts to distort his teachings from those who sought to discredit him. The Biblical books of Romans and Galatians appear to document several of those attempts…
“Why not say, then, ‘Let us do evil so that good may come’? Some people, indeed, have insulted me by accusing me of saying this very thing! They will be condemned, as they should be” (Romans 3:8 GNT).
“Well then, shall we keep on sinning so that God can keep on showing us more and more kindness and forgiveness?” (Romans 6:1 TLB).
“What does all this mean? Does it mean we are free to sin, because we are ruled by God’s wonderful kindness and not by the Law? Certainly not!” (Romans 6:15 CEV).
“But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister of sin? Certainly not!” (Galatians 2:17).
Paul addressed those efforts with reasoned responses in each instance (see Romans 3:7-26, Romans 6:1-11, Romans 6:15-23, and Galatians 2:18-21).It seems that Peter was similarly aware of those who adopted this approach, and that apparently led him to issue this cautionary message. This has brought one commentary to the following conclusion…
“The false teachers intentionally misused Paul’s writings by distorting them to condone lawlessness. No doubt this made the teachers popular, because people always like to have their favorite sins justified, but the net effect was to totally destroy Paul’s message. Paul may have been thinking of teachers like these when he wrote in Rom_6:15: ‘Since God’s grace has set us free from the law, does that mean we can go on sinning? Of course not!’ …the better we know Jesus, the less attractive false teaching will be.” (2)
(1) G4761 strebloo. Mounce Concise Greek-English Dictionary of the New Testament. https://www.billmounce.com/greek-dictionary/strebloo
(2) Life Application Study Bible [2 Peter 3:15-18] Copyright © 1988, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1996, 2004 by Tyndale House Publishers Inc., all rights reserved.
“speaking of these things in all his letters. Some things in these letters are hard to understand, things the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they also do to the rest of the scriptures” (2 Peter 3:16 NET).
Despite the understated nature of this passage, our text from 2 Peter 3:16 contains a pivotal statement regarding the Word Of God. We can begin unpacking that statement with a definition of the word “scriptures” as it appears within this verse…
“The word translated ‘Scriptures’ here is graphe, a word that occurs fifty-one times in the New Testament and that refers to the Old Testament Scriptures in every one of those occurrences. Thus the word Scripture was a technical term for the New Testament authors, and it was used only of those writings that were thought to be God’s words and therefore part of the canon of Scripture. But in this verse, Peter classifies Paul’s writings with the ‘other Scriptures’ (meaning the Old Testament Scriptures). Paul’s writings are therefore considered by Peter also to be worthy of the title ‘Scripture’ and thus worthy of inclusion in the canon.” (1)
This tells us that Peter the Apostle recognized Paul the Apostle’s New Testament letters as “Scripture” right from their inception. Of course, Paul recognized the God-inspired nature of those messages as well…
“For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe” (2 Thessalonians 2:13).
What’s more, “Peter thus puts Paul’s Epistles on the same plane with the O.T., which was also misused (Mt 5:21-44; 15:3-6; 19:3-10 ).” (2) This has led one source to make the following statement…
“It is also very significant that Peter refers to Paul’s letters and groups them with ‘the rest of the Scriptures’ (2 Pet 3:16), and Paul quotes a passage from the Gospel of Luke, introducing it with the phrase, ‘For the Scripture says’ (1 Tim 5: 18). It is abundantly clear, therefore, that most, if not all, the NT writers claimed divine authority for themselves and their writings, sometimes even authenticating each others’ writings as such. What can explain this except their being convinced that Jesus had promised them the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit, so that their teachings-both verbal and written-would be divinely inspired?” (3)
(1) Grudem, W. A. (2020). Systematic Theology, Second Edition: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Academic). pg.17
(2) 2 Peter 3 – Robertson’s Word Pictures in the New Testament – Bible Commentaries – StudyLight.org. (n.d.). StudyLight.org. https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/rwp/2-peter-3.html
(3) Cowan, S. B., & Wilder, T. L. (2013). In Defense of the Bible: A Comprehensive Apologetic for the Authority of Scripture. B&H Publishing Group. pg 459
“He speaks about these things in all his letters in which there are some matters that are hard to understand. The untaught and unstable twist them to their own destruction, as they also do with the rest of the Scriptures” (2 Peter 3:16 HCSB).
The New Testament letter of 1 John highlights the need to evaluate the spiritual ideas and beliefs we encounter when it tells us, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1 NIV). That portion of Scripture reminds us that many spiritual teachings, experiences, or supposed displays of supernatural power may not come from God.
This applies to both groups and individuals, for there are ample opportunities for the “ill-informed and unbalanced” (Phillips) to twist good spiritual doctrine into something else. Those who distort the Scriptures in that manner do so to their own destruction, and may carry others in their wake. By remembering these admonitions, we can adapt and apply Jesus’ message from Mark 13:5:: “…Watch out that no one deceives you” (NIV).
For instance, those who present an alternative version of Jesus that is not supported by the Scriptures do not convey the truth about Him. Thus, we would do well to follow the example of the people of Berea as chronicled in Acts 17:10-11…
“Immediately when night came, the believers sent Paul and Silas to the city of Berea. When Paul and Silas arrived in the city of Berea, they entered the synagogue. The people of Berea were more open-minded than the people of Thessalonica. They were very willing to receive God’s message, and every day they carefully examined the Scriptures to see if what Paul said was true” (GW).
With these things in mind, it’s important to remember a few critical points from earlier in our study of 2 Peter…
- False teachers will always exist (2 Peter 2:1).
- False teachers don’t tell the truth about Christ (2 Peter 2:1).
- False teachers often take advantage of others and manipulate them for personal gain (2 Peter 2:3).
Finally, it is worth reiterating that the New Testament book of 1 Thessalonians provides an effective method of guarding against spiritual deception: “Test all things; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). If we test a spiritual teaching or belief against God’s Word, we can then say along with the Psalmist, “Your word is a lamp to walk by, and a light to illumine my path” (Psalm 119:105 NET).
Image Credit: Photo by KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-golden-balance-scale-beside-a-laptop-6077797/
“You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked” (2 Peter 3:17).
As we approach the end of this great Biblical epistle, 2 Peter 3:17 offers a final admonition regarding heretical ministers and their teachings: since you have been alerted to the presence of those who twist and distort the Scriptures, you must remain vigilant and alert. That message is as timely today as it was when it was first written, for if false teachers were active in the Apostle Peter’s era, how much greater is their activity today?
Then, as now, there are no shortages of those who seek to take advantage of the spiritually naïve. Thus, we have Peter’s encouragement to remain steadfast. One commentary underscores the need for diligence in this area with a closer look at this reference to being “led” or “carried” away…
“The verb ‘carried away’ (synapachthentes; trans. “led astray” in Gal_2:13) emphasizes a group or corporate movement. False teachers are not satisfied with ambushing one or two, now and then, here and there; they want to sweep large groups of people away from the correct doctrine of Christ. Those who keep company with such people are in danger of being led astray (referred to as ‘falling’; cf. 2Pe_1:10; Gal_5:4).” (1)
We should also note the descriptive phrase that closes this verse: “the error of the wicked.” This serves to remind us that heretical teachers are not mistaken, confused, or misguided. Instead, this passage describes such individuals as wicked…
“The term ‘wicked’ here means ‘unsettled’ or ‘lawless.’ These men were “unlearned and unstable” (3:16) in the Scriptures, and so were leading others astray with their twisting of God’s Word to fit their own opinions. There are many such teachers today as well, so ‘beware.’” (2)
Once again, this passage highlights the importance of reading God’s Word regularly, for those who are unfamiliar with Biblical teachings may be susceptible to various forms of deception. From erroneous spiritual beliefs that are not what they seem, to charismatic spiritual leaders who take advantage of those who don’t know any better, we can avoid many forms of deception simply by making a prayerful commitment to read the Scriptures each day.
Since God has warned us of such things through the inspired pen of the Apostle Peter, we should be diligent to ensure that we are not “…led away with the error of the wicked.”
Image Credit: Florent Darrault from Paris, France, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
(1) John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck, Bible Knowledge Commentary [2 Peter 3:17]
(2) Institute for Creation Research, New Defender’s Study Bible Notes [2 Peter 3:17] https://www.icr.org/bible/2Pet/3/17/ Accessed 04 October, 2024
“but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:18).
Epilogue
“Peter concludes this brief letter as he began, urging his readers to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; that is, they were to get to know him better and better. This is the best way to discern false teaching. No matter where we are in our spiritual journey, no matter how mature we are in our faith, the sinful world will always challenge our faith. We still have much room for growth. Every day we need to draw closer to Christ so that we will be prepared to stand for truth in any and all circumstances.” (1)
“Peter ends this letter with a summary statement of the same instruction with which he began it (1:2–11). Pursuing Christian maturity and a deepening knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ will lead to doctrinal stability and prevent a Christian from being led astray.” (2)
“Having been instructed in the dangers of false teaching by this epistle, we now have no excuse if we are carried away by the errors of libertinism, the denial of the return of Christ, or any other view opposed to the sound doctrine given in the Scriptures. Therefore, we must be willing to turn away from false teaching anytime it is presented to us.” (3)
“Brothers and sisters, I urge you to watch out for those people who create divisions and who make others fall away from the Christian faith by teaching doctrine that is not the same as you have learned. Stay away from them. People like these are not serving Christ our Lord. They are serving their own desires. By their smooth talk and flattering words they deceive unsuspecting people” (Romans 16:17-18 GW).
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them” (Matthew 7:15-20).
(1) Life Application Study Bible [2 Peter 3:18] Copyright © 1988, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1996, 2004 by Tyndale House Publishers Inc., all rights reserved.
(2) John F. MacArthur Jr., The MacArthur Study Bible: New American Standard Bible. (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2006), 2 Pe 3:18.
(3) Grace and Knowledge (n.d.). Ligonier Ministries. https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/grace-and-knowledge