Written by Peter A.D. 68 – 69
If 1 Peter 5:13 cryptically refers to Rome, then it is likely Peter wrote this second epistle shortly before his death, which tradition sets at late A.D. 68 or early 69. He wrote to challenge Christians to spiritual growth through knowledge of the truth so that they can ward off apostasy as they look for the Lord’s return.
Chapter 1:1-21 True Knowledge
Peter mentions the readers’ “true knowledge of God” to encourage and challenge them to live for the Lord and practice moral excellence, self-control, perseverance, godliness, kindness, and love rather than stumble in a lifestyle of sinful corruption. They can live by the truth knowing that the Lord will imminently return.
Chapter 2:1-22 False Teaching
The greatness of the word of God and knowledge of the truth is contrasted with the teaching and method of false prophets. Because they sow divisive heresy, deny the Lord as Master, follow sensuality, malign the truth, and exploit the sheep, Peter notes that they will be judged. He then warns his readers to stay away from these individuals.
Chapter 3:1-18 Expectant Living
After addressing the reality of being mocked by the world for living in expectation of Christ’s return, Peter affirms the certain truth of the second advent and the day of resurrection. The passage of time until then is really a time of God’s grace to allow others opportunity to turn toward God. Until that day believers are to be diligent in living a life of peace and practical holiness before the Lord.
Quine’s Key Verse Suggestion: 2 Peter 1:5-8
“Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness; and in your godliness, brotherly kindness and in your brotherly kindness, love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
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