II Peter

Author: the apostle Peter
Place of writing: presumably, Rome
Time of writing: 66 A.D.

When Peter wrote his second letter to the followers of Jesus, he knew that his earthly life was almost over (1:14); and in fact, he was martyred by Emperor Nero soon after that. His goal, then, was to give the believers something to help them remember the certainty of the gospel and of Jesus’ coming return to earth, so that they would continue steadfast after he was gone. This was especially vital since many false teachers would soon arise, and attempt to lead believers astray. Peter’s warning against these false teachers has many similarities to the letter of Jude, and he may have been borrowing material from him, as it touched upon his own purpose in writing. He would certainly not have been opposed to this, since he had a high respect for the writings of other New Testament authors, as we may see by his commendation of Paul’s letters in 3:15-16.

Peter’s primary theme in this letter is the rise of false teachers. In his first letter, he instructed the believers how to respond to persecution coming from without the Church; and in this letter, he is instructing them how to respond to false teaching arising from within the Church. But in both cases, the answer is the same: remember the truth of the gospel, labor to live holy lives, and be awaiting the return of Jesus Christ.

Peter begins his letter by reminding the believers of the great and precious promises which have been given to us because of the righteousness of Jesus Christ, our God and Savior. Because of those gifts, we are able to know God and to be like he is in our own lives; and striving to be like him, and so to be sure that we belong to him, is the main purpose of our lives until he brings us to his eternal Kingdom. Peter then assures his readers of the certainty of the gospel, reminding them that he himself was an eye-witness of Jesus’ glory. He goes on to warn believers about the rise of many false teachers, and admonishes them not to be led astray, but to hope steadfastly in Jesus’ certain return. At that time, the world will be utterly changed, and so it is not fitting that we be attached to this world; but rather, we should endeavor to live lives worthy of the New Heavens and New Earth, in which will dwell only righteousness.

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