2 PETER 3

THE AUTHORITY OF GOD’S WORD + TIMING 

Peter restates that his purpose for writing is to serve as a reminder of God’s teaching. Warning that there will be scoffers, Peter encourages believers to cling to the truth of Jesus and His fulfillment of many prophecies. Focusing on the power of God’s Word, Peter states that God’s Word intervened in the beginning of creation to bring something out of nothing. God’s Word is not only truth, it is the creator and sustainer of all things.

Peter offers perspective on God’s divine timing. Because God is outside of time, one day is like a thousand years and a thousand years is like one day to Him. God has enduring patience, but is never late in fulfilling His promises.

Peter foretells the Day of the Lord, or the time of God’s judgment. God does not want anyone to perish, but to repent. In the end, God will establish a new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells. Until this time comes, believers are to be patient and filled with peace.

Peter references Paul, who wrote many of the other New Testament Letters. Peter writes that Paul’s letters can be challenging to understand. Despite the challenges of interpreting the Scriptures, readers are taught not to distort or twist the writing to fit their own understanding. Peter ends by encouraging believers to continue growing in grace and knowledge of God.