Theme: REMEMBER THE GOSPEL!

2nd Peter represents the Apostle Peter’s 2^nd epistle. Written shortly after the first, the distinguishing mark of this letter is not only its focus on the gospel, but its efficient and effective presentation. In this respect, Peter does two things. First, he reminds us of what the (true) gospel teaches (1:1-15), then he provides us with those reasons we should not only remember what this gospel teaches, but also why it is important that we are growing strong in our commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18).

1. What Peter reminds us is the true/saving gospel message (1:1-15):

Through faith in the righteousness of Christ we GAIN a justified and glorified/exalted state (or “standing”) with God. Though we have GAINED a justified and glorified state through faith in Christ, we MUST MAINTAIN this state/standing through faithfulness. Such maintaining should not surprise us given the reason God justified/glorified us, as well as the commitment we made in order to gain that justification (Peter says he intends to “remind” his audience of the “qualities” associated w/maintaining established in 1:5-11, which means they were preached as part of the gospel message received). Faithful maintaining (then) looks like growing in those areas/attributes of obedience God commands in His Word. Failing to maintain will mean losing what we gained; faithfulness (on the other hand) will mean that our justified/glorified standing before God and w/Christ remains intact along with the salvation it promises. IOW: Faith + Faithfulness = Salvation NOT Faith + Nothing = Salvation (1:1-11). Peter thought it was incredibly important to remind believers about this aspect of the true/saving gospel message (i.e. that we must maintain what we have gained if we hope to be remain justified and be saved) (1:12-15).

2. Why Peter thought it was so important to not only remind believers of this gospel (of G&M) but see that they were growing strong in their commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18):

2.1. B/C the gospel (of G&M) is not the invention of men, but the message of both Christ and the OT Scriptures (1:16-21).

2.2. B/C false teachers wb preaching a gospel of (G&NO M) and leading many astray by appealing to feelings vs. facts(2:1-2a).

2.3. B/C this heretical “gain but no maintain” group will condemn the true gospel (of G&M) and true Christians (2:2b-19a).

2.4. B/C the additional tools of entrapment used by the (G&NO M) teachers mean we have our work cut for us (2:10-19).

2.5. B/C embracing the false gospel (of G&NO M) will render true Christians apostate (2:19-22).

2.6. B/C difficult times w/these kinds of people was predicted by the prophets/Jesus/the other apostles (3:1-3).

2.7. B/C the false teacher’s gospel (of G& NO M) is based on the idolatrous belief that God decided a long time ago, to no longer punish for unfaithfulness (i.e. He is no longer a God of Wrath, only a God of Love).

(3:4) “They (i.e. the false teachers) will say, ‘Where is the promise of His coming?” = Where is the dreaded day of global judgment for sinful/rebellious living threatened in the Bible? “For ever since the fathers fell asleep (i.e. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob – Exo 3:15; Deu 1:8; BTW this reference affirms that the “scoffers” [3] Peter is speaking about in these verses are the false teachers of the previous chapter and not people outside of Christianity – e.g. atheists. These false teachers saw themselves spiritually connected to the OT Patriarchs, as legitimate Christians.), all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.’”  = Massive revisionist thinking in relation to Israel’s past judgments due to their refusal to live in obedience to God’s Law (i.e. for failing to maintain what they gained), caused these false teachers to view God as having changed His approach to human rebellion after the flood of Noah. IOW: Time changes all things (including God). Since the time of the Patriarchs (they reasoned), He had become a kinder, gentler God. He had decided to let mercy trump justice and love replace wrath. Things essentially “were “continuing as they were from the beginning of creation” (i.e. w/o the threat of judgment). In secular terms, this means God got a good psychiatrist who helped Him realize people are doing their best as poor victims who cannot help what they do and therefore should be shown pity and support (versus making them responsible for their actions through punishment). This line of reasoning on the part of the false teachers is the same as that which inspired homosexual activist, Gilbert Baker to use a rainbow to symbolize the homosexual movement (“The rainbow’s in the Bible. It’s a covenant [of peace] between God and all living creatures. He knows [i.e. He understands] the struggle of gays and lesbians.” – Gilbert Baker). As such, God is done being wrathful w/people for their lifestyle choices. God instead loves and accepts all people who will look to Him as simply Savior (consider again, this was the false teacher’s view of Jesus, 2:1 – His blood had “bought them” a pass out of coming judgment. Hence, the reason they felt no need to repent and maintain their covenant standing thru faithful, holy living to Jesus as “Master”). What Peter therefore is revealing in these verses, is the theological foundation of the false teacher’s gospel (of G & NO M). It was based on the extremely idolatrous view so common today w/in the Evangelical church. Because of the Cross, God can no longer be wrathful w/His people. In relation to them, He is now a God devoted exclusively to love and mercy. The biblical warnings of eternal destruction, wrath and a “promise of His coming” in judgment – b/c of unfaithfulness, are only applicable to pagans. Though God may be disappointed when His people rebel or remain unfaithful, His love and continued blessings will remain on them (no matter what). A good example of this is the Evangelical position on apostasy as hypothetical (i.e. It is impossible for Christians to commit. Warnings exist only to scare). Likewise, this kind of thinking is also picked up in the doctrine of Eternal Security (i.e. Once a person has become justified thru faith in Christ, they can never lose that state or their eternal salvation.). According to Peter, such an idolatrous view of God is the result of overlooking four truths: 1) Length of time doesn’t change God’s mind or promise to destroy all who rebel against Him. (3:5) “For they deliberately overlook this fact, that the heavens existed long ago and the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God, (3:6) and that by means of these (lit. through which) the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished. = The key phrase in these verses is “the heavens existed long ago and the earth was formed”. Peter’s point is that the span of time from creation until the first “world” was destroyed in the days of Noah (“deluged with water and perished”) was (also) very long (almost 2,000 yrs), yet it did not mean God had somehow become tolerant of man’s sin during that time – or changed His gospel. God’s expectation of faithful obedience remained the same. So also, His resolve to make good on His promise (i.e. “word”) to punish people for their failure in this area. It is in this respect, Peter says (3:7) “But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.” = According to Peter, the passing of another 2,000 yrs (from the time of the flood/fathers until the 1^st century) had made no difference to God’s previous plans or approach to dealing w/rebellious human beings. And that b/c what determines God’s actions (and the course of history) is again, God’s “word” (or promise) – not the passing of time. So then, just as God’s former promised judgment came to fruition, so His future promise would also come to fruition. Man’s faulty view of “time changes all things” does not apply to God. 2) God’s wrath is especially directed at those who reject faithfulness. The term ”ungodly” is used in the NT to refer to both pagans and those claiming to be Christians (e.g. 1Pe 4:18; Jud 1:4). IOW: what places a person in this category is not their profession but their practice.  It refers to those whose lifestyle is the antithesis of God (i.e. the opposite of image-bearers/imitators; those who disobey His Law/the self-exp. Of His character). As such, no-one – including those making a profession of faith in Christ, is exempt from God’s coming wrath, if they choose to reject the obligation of living in faithful obedience to Him. They are the special target of God’s judgment/fire (“being kept… for the destruction of the ungodly”). Hence why Peter says what he does in His first epistle (1Pe 1:16-17; consider also Heb 10:30).  3) God gives time for the purpose of repentance not the removal of wrath. Remember, the basis of the false teachers’ gospel was (again) driven by the fact that things had changed for God’s people during the time of the Patriarchs (or after the flood). Since then, there had been no global catastrophe yet people (incl. many of those claiming to be His people) lived in unfaithfulness. If God was still so concerned about obedient living – especially among those who acknowledged Him in faith, then why had he allowed things to “continue” w/o such major consequences for so long? What they (also) overlooked however was God’s perspective on time and the reason for giving such time to rebels. (3:8) “But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” = What seems like a long time for us is nothing to God. Once more, it is therefore no reason to think He has changed His mind about what He requires – nor how those will fare who choose to reject the need for faithful obedience. Such time (from our perspective) should instead be viewed as God giving us the opportunity to repent (of such thinking and behavior) before it is too late.  (3:9) “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise (of again condemning in final judgment, all those who refuse the necessity of faithful obedience) as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” = Paul speaks the same way in his letter to the Romans, affirming also such patience as “storing up additional wrath” for those who claim to be God’s people yet continue to operate under the false gospel (of G&NO M) (Rom 2:1-17 = The Jews in Paul’s day were also embracing a false gospel of G & NO M). Therefore, things going good in our lives (or just b/c we are experiencing no present consequences), though we are live in unfaithfulness to God’s Law (or outright reject the necessity of such obedience to our salvation), should never be taken as a sign that God is okay (or good w/us). Rather, we can be sure that we (too) are storing up wrath for God’s promised second day of global judgment. 4) The coming promised judgment will be according to our works. (10) “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.” = The thoughts and behavior of every human being that were done during their life on planet earth wb “exposed” and assessed before the throne of God – which wb the only thing remaining after everything else is “burned up and dissolved” (Rev 20:11-12). It wb (as before) a judgment according to works. Not in the sense of merit, but as the means to determining a person’s faithfulness to Christ. This (btw) is the only thing ever mentioned (i.e. works/deeds) when the Scriptures speak on the subject of the “day of the Lord”/final judgment (Rev 20:13-15; Rom 2:6-8). IOW: there is no mention of faith (or the faith of people being “exposed”). As such, the false teachers and those who follow their gospel not requiring such faithfulness will fare no better than the pagan. So then, rejecting the gospel of G&M means you don’t know the God of the Bible (you think it’s all love and no wrath or punishment for unfaithfulness). Like the false teachers, you possess an extremely idolatrous view of God which will not fare well for you on that promised day of fiery judgment.

2.8. B/C the only way you wb ready for the coming judgment and new creation is if you possess the gospel (of G&M).

(3:11-14) “Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness (as discussed, both words carry the same essential meaning, careful to obey all of God’s Law), waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish (i.e. maintain the cleansed/righteous standing you received from Christ, see 1Pe 1:19; Exo 12:5), and at peace (the result of maintaining is remaining in a good, peaceful relationship w/God).” = What (then) Peter communicates twice as the proper reaction/response (i.e. “lives of holiness and godliness”; “diligent to be found in Him without spot or blemish”) to such apocalyptic news (“the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt  as they burn”) should not be a surprise given the fact that:  1) such destruction is for this very reason (i.e. It is meant for “the destruction of the “ungodly” [3:7] and exposing “the works done on…the earth [3:10])”), and 2) it coincides w/our beginning as Christians (1:5-10, 12 – these “qualities” were again reminders of what we committed ourselves to when we began our marriage to Jesus). Hence why (then) Peter can say that such coming judgment (according to our deeds/works) is something we look forward to (i.e. we are “waiting for and hastening the day of God”). B/C we maintain thru faithful obedience (our relationship w/Christ), that day – though experienced by others as horrific (incl. those in the false gospel camp), will be the day of our deliverance. The same is true as it relates to the new creation (“we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth”). Like the coming judgment, this new creation is only a good thing if we are those living faithful obedient lives since this (too) is dependent on righteous living (i.e. it is a place where only “righteousness dwells”). As such, a theology which has a biblical view of God, is (most assuredly also) proclaiming a gospel of (G&M) since this is the only plan of salvation consistent w/such a God. What (then) all of this means is the essentially the flip-side of the previous point and the “no worries, God’s not mad at you, it’s all good, just believe and grace will take care of the rest” message of the false teachers. The only way you wb ready to meet this kind of a God, (Who judges us according to our works in the old world and qualifies us according to the same works for life in the new world), is if you are both possessing and practicing the gospel (of G&M).

2.9. B/C not knowing and growing in the gospel of G&M makes you the perfect target for self-deception or the deception of false teachers. (3:15) “And count the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, (16) as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters (i.e. matters regarding the gospel of G&M, the coming judgment according to our works and punishment for the ungodly professors of Christ – e.g. 2Co 5:9-10; 2Th 1:8-9). There are some things in them (i.e. Paul’s writings) that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures.” = Not knowing or growing in the gospel (G&M) will make you the kind of people Peter is talking about. IOW: it is not just the false teachers he has in mind. Anyone who does not have a robust understanding of the G&M concept as taught throughout God’s Word (including the writings of “Paul” and “the other Scriptures”) will b/c of such biblical “ignorance”, become the “unstable”/unfaithful (i.e. no knowledge = no conviction = no commitment to live in faithful obedience). The combination of these things leads a person to self-deception: the misinterpretation (or twisting) of the Scripture. Instead of seeing the message of G&M, they come away believing just the opposite (i.e. that which leads “to their destruction.”) Peter’s solution: (3:17) “You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand (i.e. knowing that you can be duped into believing what is wrong; that the danger of such delusion is real), take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people (i.e. the false teachers of G&NO M and those who follow them) and lose your own stability (i.e. lose your standing w/Christ; fail to maintain what you gained and lose your justification – 1:9), (18) But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (i.e. grow in the gospel of G&M – see 1:8). To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen”. In closing, consider in total what has been said about the theological makeup of the false teacher’s (G& NO M) gospel: 1) it denies the necessity of obedience to Christ’s Lordship (2:1), 2) it despises submission to authority (2:10), 3) it promises freedom from the obligation of holy living (2:18-21), 4) it promotes lawlessness/no OT LAW (i.e. it is the “error of lawless people” – 3:17). Is this not the majority of the Evangelical church?

Theme: REMEMBER THE GOSPEL!

2nd Peter represents the Apostle Peter’s 2^nd epistle. Written shortly after the first, the distinguishing mark of this letter is not only its focus on the gospel, but its efficient and effective presentation. In this respect, Peter does two things. First, he reminds us of what the (true) gospel teaches (1:1-15), then he provides us with those reasons we should not only remember what this gospel teaches, but also why it is important that we are growing strong in our commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18).

1. What Peter reminds us is the true/saving gospel message (1:1-15):

Through faith in the righteousness of Christ we GAIN a justified and glorified/exalted state (or “standing”) with God. Though we have GAINED a justified and glorified state through faith in Christ, we MUST MAINTAIN this state/standing through faithfulness. Such maintaining should not surprise us given the reason God justified/glorified us, as well as the commitment we made in order to gain that justification. Faithful maintaining looks like growing in those areas/attributes of obedience God commands in His Word. Failing to maintain will mean losing what we gained; faithfulness (on the other hand) will mean that our justified/glorified standing before God and w/Christ remains intact along with the salvation it promises. IOW: Faith + Faithfulness = Salvation NOT Faith + Nothing = Salvation (1:1-11). Peter thought it was incredibly important to remind believers about this aspect of the true/saving gospel message (i.e. that we must maintain what we have gained if we hope to be remain justified and be saved) (1:12-15).

2. Why Peter thought it was so important to not only remind believers of this gospel (of G&M) but see that they were growing strong in their commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18):

2.1. B/C the gospel (of G&M) is not the invention of men, but the message of both Christ (whom God Himself affirmed) and the OT Scriptures (1:16-21).

2.2. B/C false teachers wb in the Christian camp denying the gospel (of G&M) and leading many astray by appealing to feelings rather than the facts (i.e. sound doctrine) (2:1-2a).

2.3. B/C this heretical “gain but no maintain” group will condemn the true gospel (of G&M) and its followers (i.e. true Christians) as though they were on their way to Hell when in reality it wb the other way around (2:2b-19a).

2.4. B/C the additional tools of entrapment used by the (G & NO M) teachers means we have our work cut for us in reaching others w/the true gospel message (of G&M) (2:10-19).

2.5. B/C embracing the false gospel (of G & NO M) will render true Christians apostate (i.e. w/o Christ w/o the ability to return – 2Th 2:3).

Peter’s concern in this epistle is not for those who have embraced the false gospel (of G & NO M) from the beginning and as a result, were never truly justified/saved (i.e. they are false Christians), but rather those who have legitimately come into a saving covenant relationship w/Christ through their acceptance of/baptism into the true gospel (of G&M) and later wb duped into believing/embracing the gospel of the false teachers. (2:19) “They (i.e. the false teachers) promise them (i.e. those in saving relationship w/Christ. This is made clear by the fact that in verse 20, he refers to them as those who “have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”) freedom (i.e. freedom from obedience/submission to Christ’s Mastery/Lordship, to the obligation of maintaining what they gained – 2:1; E.G. “The biblical picture of the saving experience is masterful in its clarity and simplicity. A single, one-time appropriation of God’s gift results in a miraculous inward transformation that can never be reversed. Since this is true, we miss the point to insist that faith must necessarily continue [or for that matter any form of obedience]. Of course, our faith in Christ [or obedience to Christ] should continue. But the claim that it absolutely must, or necessarily does, has no support at all in the Bible. It is sufficient to observe that the Bible predicates salvation on an act of faith, not on the continuity of faith [or obedience]. Just as surely as regeneration occurs at a point in time for each individual, so surely does saving faith. Through justification we acquire the very righteousness of God, which is credited to us on the basis of faith alone (Ro 3:21, 22). Through regeneration we acquire the very life of God, which is imparted to us likewise on the basis of faith alone. Therefore, in a moment of time we obtain both perfect acceptance before the bar of God’s justice as well as full membership in His family. And all of this is absolutely free and permanent. ‘For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable [Ro 11:29].’” – Zane C. Hodges, [Absolutely Free]), but they are (b/c of their “no maintain” doctrine of faithful obedience as optional) slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes (lit. becomes the master of) a person, to that he is enslaved (Rom 6:16)”. (2:20) “For if after they (i.e. true Christians) have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (i.e. thru faith in the saving gospel of G&M – see 1:2-3; i.e. thru their agreement to submit to Christ as LBS. BTW: The combination of “Lord and Savior” is only used by Peter in this 2^nd epistle and Jude in his epistle dealing w/same issue – Anti-LBS/G&NO M gospel), they are again entangled in them (i.e. they go back to sinful/disobedient living; to the “the defilements of the world”) and are overcome” = The result of cognitive dissonance (i.e. the stress caused by beliefs that are inconsistent w/behavior or facts). Their “unstable” lifestyle (2:14) of disobedient/sinful living mixed w/a gospel which does not allow for it, eventually takes its toll. They crumble under the pressure and need to remove such tension.

This in turn leads to changing their gospel to one more accommodating (i.e. one where maintaining thru obedience is not necessary). This is what Peter is referring to by the word “overcome”. It means to fall away, to be apostate from the true gospel thru the embracing of a false one – which is the inevitable result of all who do not commit themselves to growing in the understanding of the true gospel’s message and those areas of obedience mentioned in (1:5-7). Hence why Peter ends the letter w/(3:17-18). Hence why (also) Peter ends verse 20 by stating that, “the last state has become worse for them than the first” = A reference to the loss of justification is unmistakably on Peter’s mind since it impossible to speak of the degradation of a person’s spiritual state (i.e. it “has become worse”) and that not be affected. His words however communicate more than that since their “first” state (i.e. their original unsaved/unbelieving/non-covenant state) is viewed as being better than their final standing (i.e. their “last state” before God). These individuals (b/c of their actions in trading the true gospel for what is false) have gone from condemned (w/hope) as an unbeliever to justified as a Christian to condemned (w/no hope) as an apostate. IOW: They have not only lost their justification before God but possess no chance of ever being restored to repentance and returning back to a justified state/saving relationship w/Christ. This is reinforced by Peter’s words in verses (2:21-22) “For it would have been better for them (i.e. those going apostate thru their embrace of the false gospel of G & NO M) never to have known the way of righteousness (i.e. the true gospel of G&M) than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them (i.e. the command to “be holy” – 1Pe 1:16, which is just another way of saying “be careful to obey all of God’s Law” – Num 15:40 w/Deu 5:32-33 w/32:51). What the true proverb says has happened to them: ‘The dog returns to its vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire.’” = Under the OC, pigs and dogs were considered unclean animals. Jesus uses this truth to metaphorically represent those who were not only outside the Kingdom of God but also not selected to receive its life-giving truths. They are the spiritually unclean and unworthy (Mat 7:6, 15:26). The apostles Paul and John use the term “dog” in similar fashion (Phi 3:2; Rev 22:15). This no doubt is how Peter is using the terms (here). As such, he is indicating both the loss of these individuals justified (or clean – 1Co 6:9) state/standing before God and their unworthiness to receive it back. The fact that they have indeed lost their former justified state sb especially apparent given their prior history as those who “have known the way of righteousness” or as a clean pig (“the sow, after washing herself”). Hardly could such things be said about those who never were Christians/true Christians (as some contend) since by such knowledge, they have (again) “escaped the defilements of the world” (20). As has already been demonstrated, Peter uses the word “knowledge” in this epistle as a reference to those who have legitimately put faith in Christ (see 1:2-3, 8 = As before, notice that such knowledge involves God’s calling and includes spiritual standing, power for godly living and eternal promises.). Those who were never Christians (or fake Christians) could also not be referred to as a “dog” or “sow” who “returns” to their former sinful practice/lifestyle (i.e. the Bible views salvation as the only way a person truly ever leaves such things behind. Everyone else is considered enslaved to sin and serving the devil as their Master – 2Pe 2:19 w/Jo 8:34; Eph 2:1-3; 2Ti 2:26; 1Jo 5:18). These individuals therefore are (again) former believers/true Christians – not simply those who heard or had head knowledge yet never committed themselves to Christ. These are (once saved) individuals who have done the unthinkable; who have rejected the gospel obligation of maintaining their covenant relationship thru faithful obedience and accepted (instead) the lie that salvation/justification can be realized w/o it. And as a result, are (now) eternally sealed as those doomed to Hell. This fact also becomes apparent when one considers that Peter’s statement about things being “better” for those who “never” knew, makes no sense unless this is true. Why would it be better to have never been a Christian if the penalty included w/a person’s falling away from the true gospel allowed them to return? If that were the case – and therefore all that Peter is communicating is loss of justification but w/the possibility of restoration/recovery, then it cannot be said that knowing Christ before was a detriment or is in some way a penalty to the person who has gone astray. Rather, Peter’s statement implies just the opposite (and subsequently something permanent). The reason it would have been “better for them never to have known” (i.e. to become true Christians) and then do what they did (in embracing the false gospel), is b/c for them all such promises and hope are lost forever. They are no longer eligible since this constitutes apostasy (Heb 6:4-8, 10:27-30, 12:15-17). Understood from the perspective of marriage, this means that our union w/Christ follows the laws of divorce and remarriage established by God in the OT (Deu 24:1-4; Jer 3:1-8). IOW: I am taking marrying a different Jesus when I embrace/take vows in re: to a different/false gospel since its vows are not something the real Jesus will accept – He only accepts LBS. As such, I have divorced myself from the real Jesus and remarried another/fake Jesus (i.e. the evangelical Jesus). Understood from the perspective of sin, such actions constitute the unpardonable sin (Mat 12:22-32; Num 15:30-31 w/Deu 29:19-20).                                                                 

2.6. B/C difficult times w/these kinds of people (i.e. those embracing the false gospel) was predicted by the prophets, Jesus and the other apostles.

(3:1-3) = Who Peter is (of course) referring to when he speaks of “scoffers” are the false teachers and those who embrace their message. Their presence w/in so-called Christianity as well as their mocking (or “scoffing”) of true Christians/gospel will be noticeable in “the last  days” – which refers to more than the time immediately before Christ’s return. It instead, is a term w/reference to the entirety of history from the point of Christ’s first advent until the time of His second advent (1Pe 1:20 w/1-5; Heb 1:2; Act 2:17; Joh 11:24, 12:48 w/5:26-29). According to Jesus (i.e. “the Lord and Savior”) the “holy prophets” and “apostles”, this entire period wb characterized by increasing/progressive apostasy, such that by the end, true Christianity/Christians or churches will become so rare as to be almost extinct (Luk 18:8; 1Pe 4:1-7, 12-18 = This represents Peter’s first “reminder”; Rom 11:16-22; 2Ti 3:1-14, 4:1-4; Jud 1:14-19; 2Th 1:3-10; Rev 2-3, 20:7-10 w/11-15). The point not to miss is that such difficult times were predicted long beforehand and therefore should not cause us to be alarmed or confused (1Th 3:1-4). As such, this becomes an (ironic) secondary source for determining whether or not we stand in the place of orthodoxy: the less accepted our gospel is, the more likely it is the true one. As before, though the NC possesses better promises (Heb 8:6), that does not include less difficulty, false teachers or apostasy. IOW: the promises are soteriological not ecclesiological. Instead, the pictures of redemptive history under the OC are intended to be “predictions” of what redemptive history will look like under the NC (Consider again 2Pe 2:1 – “false prophets arose among the people just as there wb false teachers among you”; Luk 6:26; 1Co 10:1-11).

Theme: REMEMBER THE GOSPEL!

2nd Peter represents the Apostle Peter’s 2^nd epistle. Written shortly after the first, the distinguishing mark of this letter is not only its focus on the gospel, but its efficient and effective presentation. In this respect, Peter does two things. First, he reminds us of what the (true) gospel teaches (1:1-15), then he provides us with those reasons we should not only remember what this gospel teaches, but also why it is important that we are growing strong in our commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18).

1. What Peter reminds us is the true/saving gospel message (1:1-15):

Through faith in the righteousness of Christ we GAIN a justified and glorified/exalted state (or “standing”) with God. That being said, we MUST MAINTAIN this state/standing through faithfulness. Such maintaining should not surprise us given the reason God justified/glorified us, as well as the commitment we made in order to gain that justification. Faithful maintaining (then) looks like growing in those areas/attributes of obedience God commands in His Word. Failing to maintain will mean losing what we gained; faithfulness (on the other hand) will mean that our justified/glorified standing before God and w/Christ remains intact along with the salvation it promises. IOW: Faith + Faithfulness = Salvation NOT Faith + Nothing = Salvation (1:1-11).

(1:8) “For if these qualities are yours and increasing [i.e. you are maintaining what you gained] they keep you from being ineffective and unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” = We must maintain the justified/glorified state we gained by faith (i.e. “in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ”; See 2:20) otherwise it will become “ineffective/unfruitful”(Jam 2:14-26). This can be seen by considering also that it is such knowledge/faith that results in justification and glorification (See 1:2-3 = “grace and peace” [in reference to our justification – 1Pe 1:2; Joh 1:16-17; Act 15:11; Rom 3:24, 5:15-21, 6:1, 14-15; 1Co 1:3-4; Gal 1:3-6, 5:4; Eph 1:7; 2Th 3:18; 2Ti 1:9, 2:1, 4:22; Heb 13:9-15; Jud 1:4-5; Rev 1:4-5] and “all things pertaining to life and godliness” [in reference to our glorification = Rom 6:4; 2Co 3:17-18]). Salvation is therefore faith + faithfulness.

Peter thought it was incredibly important to remind believers about this aspect of the true/saving gospel message (i.e. that we must maintain what we have gained if we hope to be remain justified and be saved) (1:12-15).

2. Why Peter thought it was so important to not only remind believers of this gospel (of G&M) but see that they were growing strong in their commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18):

2.1. B/C the gospel (of G&M) is not the invention of men, but the message of both Christ (whom God Himself affirmed) and the OT Scriptures (1:16-21).

2.2. B/C false teachers wb in the Christian camp denying the gospel (of G&M) and leading many astray by appealing to feelings rather than the facts (i.e. sound doctrine) (2:1-2a; consider Against Empathy by Paul Bloom = Yale researcher reveals empathy [feeling through others experiences] to be one of the leading motivators of inequality and immorality due to this capricious and irrational emotion’s power to skew the facts. This BTW is Hollywood and the Evangelical churches’ number one weapon of indoctrination).

2.3. B/C this heretical “gain but no maintain” group will condemn the true gospel (of G&M) and its followers (i.e. true Christians) as though they were on their way to Hell when in reality it wb the other way around (2:2b-19a).

(2b-3) “because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed.” = The success of the false teachers’ feelings (versus facts), approach and gospel heresy of gain BUT no maintain, will cause the true gospel (of G&M) to be viewed as the wrong one. As a result, a tragic turning of the tables will occur. The only gospel that can save (again, the true gospel of G&M) wb cursed/condemned as false (and therefore damning) whereas the heresy (of G& NO M) wb touted as the truth (2Ti 4:3). Such condemnation (however) will not be reserved for the true gospel alone. According to Peter, they will be successful in condemning true Christians as well. (10b) “bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones” = True Christians – those committed to maintain their justified state through righteous practice/ living (2Co 8:23). These will likewise become a target of the heretical (G & NO M) group’s bold and blasphemous campaign. As a result, we (too) will be viewed as false and suffer harsh ridicule (2Ti 3:12). That the term “glorious ones” does indeed refer to human beings – most specifically, those who believe faithful/righteous living is necessary (to maintain) as part of the true gospel message is irrefutable once one considers: 1) who Peter distinguishes them from ((11) “whereas angels, though greater in might and power [than these beings] , do not pronounce a blasphemous judgment against them [the glorious ones] before the Lord” = moral beings other than/weaker than angels – humans!); 2) who Peter offers up as his examples (of “glorious ones”) in the previous verses ((5) “Noah, the herald of righteousness”, (7) “righteous Lot greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked (8) for as that righteous man lived among them day after day, he was tormenting his righteous soul over their lawless deeds” = Practical righteousness (i.e. righteous, faithful obedient living) is clearly what is being referred to in re: to Noah and Lot given what it stands in contrast to (“sensual conduct”, “lawless deeds”).

This (then) is why Peter calls such individuals, “the glorious ones” – b/c of their commitment to practicing righteousness.

That such righteous/obedient practice is being viewed as necessary (i.e. you MUST maintain what you gain) and the differing factor between the true gospel and that which is false is also made clear by the differing eternal outcomes communicated by Peter  in relation to those practicing righteousness/obedience (vs. those who don’t)(4-10) = Like the fallen angels or the wicked people of Noah and Lot’s day (the “ancient world” of “long ago”), Peter assures us that the false gospel teachers and their followers in our day (i.e. all those who reject righteous living as necessary to maintain our standing/state before God) are equally in for a big, damning surprise (“their destruction is not asleep”, they are kept “under punishment until the day of judgment.”; also 2:12-13 – “they…will also be destroyed in their destruction, suffering wrong for their wrongdoing, 2:17 – “For them the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved”), whereas those who do practice righteousness as necessary, wb saved (“the Lord know to rescue the godly from trials”). What (then) to remember is not only what they do (i.e. condemn the true gospel and us – God’s “glorious ones”) but where they are headed. Holding to a false gospel will not be something God overlooks on judgment day. Whatever love for/commitment to Christ they think they possessed during their earthly existence will be viewed by Jesus as rebellion in light of their refusal to obey His Law as necessary to preserving the covenant relationship. IOW: their faith alone in Christ alone (peppered w/selective obedience when and where it suits them but only as optional) will leave them alone in their faith w/o Christ in the pit of Hell (Mat 5:19, 7:21-27).

2.4. B/C the additional tools of entrapment used by the (G & NO M) teachers means we have our work cut out for us in reaching others w/the true gospel message (of G&M).

Besides their appeal to feelings rather than fact, Peter provides 3 additional reasons the false teachers’ approach and message is so appealing: 1) They are anarchists at heart (10-11) = The idea of despising authority mentioned (here) goes beyond simply being anti-LBS in their gospel (2:1). These individuals hate the concept of authority/rule itself. As such, they champion the phrase, “Christian liberty” or “human rights” while rejecting, condemning or treating as suspect anything (or one) that attempts to establish rules/laws for others, or speaks in terms of moral obligation and obedience in relation to others, or expects the submission of others to its design and demands (Consider again verse 11. The reason angels do not blaspheme true believers is bc they respect God’s authority structure which places us above them – 1Co 6:3; see also Jud 1:5-11 = A rejection of authority in person [Moses w/”Egypt”, “the devil” and “Korah”], position [“Angels”] or precept [Sodom and “Gomorrah”, “Balaam”, “Cain”] is the common denominator in every example. What this anarchy looks like today brings to mind the secretive or subtle nature spoken of by Peter in verse 1 [e.g. the Evangelical view on the Law = It is good for God but not for us, It can only condemn never bring life, etc. Even in the way the Evangelical church understands the Christian’s obedience undermines God’s authority. It is now the result of internal, personal desire rather than external demand. IOW: We obeyed only bc it is what we wanted to do, not bc we recognize and submit to God’s authority over us). As stated in the previous point, such anarchist leanings play perfectly to our sinful nature (1Jo 3:4 = all sin is anarchy). Anarchy was the basis also for the Fall (Gen 3:5). 2) Their incredible confidence is incredibly convincing irrespective of their incredible ignorance (10b-13) = Deliberate boldness, lack of fear and no shame/concern for what others think should never be among the reasons a person is viewed as leadership material when such behavior is accompanied by gross stupidity or self-delusion as it is w/those holding to a false gospel (i.e. they are “bold and willful”,  “do not “tremble” and “revel in the daytime” as those not ashamed of what they teach, yet have more in common w/ “irrational animals”; they are “ignorant”, “blots and blemishes”). This kind of braggadocio (however) is oftentimes what attracts others to follow such people. We are naturally drawn to believe those who come across so confident – irrespective of their intellect or correctness (This is a part of the phenomenon known as Confirmation Bias: we tend to confirm as true those things held confidently by others – especially those who represent the majority – which is always the case w/the FG camp – Mat 7:13-14). Scripture itself affirms confidence as a powerful tool in convincing others of one’s message (Ecc 10:4). 3) They sell cheap, shiny, plastic junk (3a) “And in their greed they will exploit [evmporeu,sontai = engage in business w/; Jam 4:13] you with false [plastoi/j = plastic; fake made to look real] words” = In relation to material things, there has always been a bigger market for what is fabricated (or plastic) than for the real thing (e.g. plastic wood on furniture versus real wood). That b/c plastic is cheaper (and) oftentimes shinier (and people like shiny!). IOW: it is easy to acquire and instantly appeals to our senses (“look how shiny it is!”). In the spiritual realm, things are no different. The demand for a gospel (or salvation) that is easy (or requires nothing) yet makes all kinds of shiny promises has always been (and will always be) much larger than a gospel whose promises are dependent on the commitment of its recipients. This (too) then is advantage shared by those peddling the false gospel (of G & NO M). Though not the real thing (but instead cheap, shiny, plastic junk), it sells. This idea – along w/the false teachers’ greed-motivated manipulation, is picked up and expanded on in (14-19) = Like “Balaam” the false prophet, the false teachers in the church are more businessmen than pastors. As such, what determines their message is what sells. They are also like the false prophet in that they love “gain from wrongdoing”. Put together, this means taking advantage of those weak in mind and body (“They entice unsteady souls”, “They entice by sensual passions of the flesh those who are barely escaping  from those who live in error”) through the sale of what is cheap in grace (i.e. a message “full of adultery insatiable for sin” = spiritual adultery will no longer cost you your covenant relationship w/Jesus; being done in our practice of sin is not necessary; you can continue unrepentant/[”insatiable”] in a particular sin and still get to heaven. E.G. “No sin can separate us from Christ. even if we were to kill or commit adultery a thousand times each day” – Martin Luther; “Our sins never cancel out our salvation because we live in grace” – John MacArthur) and shiny in its promises (i.e. the promise of fun [“loud boasts of folly”], and “freedom” [from obedience/obligation to the Law and righteousness]; E.G. “In Christ, we are carried directly to heaven, no work necessary on our part. Only when you realize that the gospel has nothing to do with your obedience but with Christ’s obedience for you, will you start to obey. The only Christians who end up getting better are those who realize that if they don’t get better, God will love them anyway. The only ‘if’ the Gospel knows is this: ‘if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.’ (1 John 2:1) The gospel liberates us to be okay with not being okay. We know we’re not—though we try very hard to convince other people we are. But the gospel tells us, “Relax, it is finished. Christians can uncouple performance from identity. After all, don’t we live our lives under a banner that reads “It is finished”? Wasn’t that Jesus’s final pronouncement from the cross? Thankfully for Peter (and for us), when Peter calls out for a Savior, Jesus springs into action. Matthew says that, “Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him” (v. 31 NRSV). There is no hesitation. No requirement. Just salvation. Sanctification is the daily hard work of going back to the reality of our justification.” – Tullian Tchividjian, [It is Finished: 365 of Good News; Jesus + Nothing = Everything; One Way Love: Inexhaustible Grace for an Exhausted World]). It is (however) plastic junk. IOW: their gospel and its promise is a fabrication (of their imagination) whose promises will fail (i.e. they are “waterless springs and mists driven by a storm”; “they promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption”). The important thing not to forget in Peter’s lengthy description of these individuals (and additional reasons for success) is his intention in communicating it. That we would not only realize what we are up against, but that such knowledge would motivate us to work even harder to know and grow in confidence, boldness and clarity in the only thing that can penetrate and push back the damning darkness they have created: the true gospel of G&M (3:17-18; This Paul says is our secret weapon – 2Co 10:3-5).

Theme: REMEMBER THE GOSPEL!

2nd Peter represents the Apostle Peter’s 2^nd epistle. Written shortly after the first, the distinguishing mark of this letter is not only its focus on the gospel, but its efficient and effective presentation. In this respect, Peter does two things. First, he reminds us of what the (true) gospel teaches (1:1-15), then he provides us with those reasons we should not only remember what this gospel teaches, but also why it is important that we are growing strong in our commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18).

1. What Peter reminds us is the true/saving gospel message (1:1-15):

1.1. Through faith in the righteousness of Christ we GAIN a justified state (or “standing”) with God (i.e. forgiveness from the eternal penalty of sin) (1:1-2).

1.2.  Through faith in Christ we also GAIN a glorified/exalted state (or “standing”) before God (i.e. empowerment for godly living, the promise of eternal life and freedom from the bondage to sin) (3-4: TRANSLATION = YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!).

1.3. Though we have GAINED a justified and glorified state through faith in Christ, we MUST MAINTAIN this state/standing through faithfulness (1:5a – “make every effort to supplement [giving all diligence add to – KJV] your faith”).

1.4. Such maintaining should not surprise us given the reason God justified/glorified us, as well as the commitment we made in order to gain that justification (1:5a – “For this very reason…”).

1.5. Faithful maintaining looks like growing in those areas/attributes of obedience God commands in His Word (5b-8 – “virtue” = faithfulness to God’s Law. All the remaining areas/attributes function as the means to accomplishing this first area/attribute; CONTRA E.G. “Christian growth does not involve becoming stronger and stronger, more and more competent every day. It involves becoming more and more aware of how weak and incompetent we are and how strong and competent Jesus was and continues to be for us. I’m not saying the Christian life is effortless; the real question is Where are we focusing our efforts? Are we working hard to perform? Or are we working hard to rest in Christ’s performance for us?” – Tullian Tchividjian [One Way Love: Inexhaustible Grace for an Exhausted World; Jesus + Nothing = Everything]).

1.6. Failing to maintain means losing what we gained (1:9).

1.7. Faithfulness in maintaining what we have gained will mean salvation (i.e. Faith + Faithfulness = Salvation NOT Faith + Nothing = Salvation) (1:10-11).

1.8. Peter thought it was incredibly important to remind believers of these specific “qualities” (G&M) of the true/saving gospel message (1:12-15).

2. Why Peter thought it was so important to not only remind believers of this gospel (of G&M) but see that they were growing strong in their commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18):

2.1. B/C the gospel (of G&M) is not the invention of men, but the message of both Christ (whom God Himself affirmed) and the OT Scriptures (1:16-21).

(16) “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths” = A gospel message which sounds right or seems to make sense but lacks Divine and Scriptural support/authority. “when we (“rather/instead” – avlla) made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ; but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty…(17) when He received glory (or affirmation) from God the Father…(18) we ourselves heard this” = This is where Peter got his gospel. It was the message of God’s powerful Son at His coming. It was also a message supported by (and consistent w/) the written (and inspired) Word of God. (19a) “And we have something more sure [i.e. reliable], the prophetic word…the (20) prophecy of Scripture not from someone’s interpretation…nor (21) produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” = Those portions of the OT which prophesied about the coming NC, confirmed that it (like its predecessors) wb a gospel of G&M (see Jer 31:33 [“law written on their hearts” = inward justification gained by faith], 34 [“know Me” = relationship w/God maintained thru outward obedience/faithfulness] w/Heb 10:15-18; Rom 2:6-29 w/3:28-30; 1Jo 2:1-7; G&M was the mechanics of the preceding gospels – e.g. Abrahamic = Gen 17:1-7, 18:17-19; Mosaic/Old = Exo 24:7-8; Deu 7:9, 29:9-20). (19b) “to which you do well to pay attention as a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts” = IOW: Continue to follow this illumined path until the day of Christ’s return! As such, this represents not only another affirmation of maintaining of what we have gained (i.e. maintain until the end/Christ’s return), but also a serious warning given the authority by which the message comes (Christ and the Scriptures). We dare not neglect or forget it! In Peter’s mind (however), that is exactly what those he was speaking to (which includes us) were in danger of doing. This is especially true in light of the second reason for calling them to remembrance.

2.2. B/C false teachers wb in the Christian camp denying the gospel (of G&M) and leading many astray by appealing to feelings rather than the facts (i.e. sound doctrine) (2:1-2a).

(1) “But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you” = Though the NC does bring w/it better promises than that of the OC (Heb 8:6), the eradication/extinction of spiritual wolves (i.e. false prophets/teachers) was not one of them. They would continue to rise up w/in the ranks of the new Israel, in the same way they had in the old Israel (e.g. Act 20:28-29). And like the past ones, these new false prophets and teachers will also attempt to convince people of a different (and therefore damning) gospel (Gal 1:8-9). Their actions will not (however) be apparent or always easy to spot. Hence why Peter can say they are those “who will secretly bring in destructive heresies [i.e. false doctrine or gospels]”. The particular false gospel Peter sees as most clandestine or easy to sneak by the watching eyes of the saints? The false gospel which (among other damnable things) is  “even denying the Master who bought them” = IOW: It is a gospel which teaches that you can have the benefits of Christ as Savior, yet refuse to submit to Him as Lord (or “Master”). It is the heretical, destructive, different and very damning false gospel of “GAIN BUT (no need to) MAINTAIN (i.e. growing faithfulness in those areas/attributes of obedience listed in 1:5-8 is nice but not necessary to salvation)”. In this sense, the false teachers of the NC are exactly the same as the false prophets of the OC since this (too) is the false gospel they preached (See Jer 6:13-20; 23:16-17). (2a) “And many will follow their sensuality [avselgei,aij= appealing to a person’s feelings versus the facts as the means of persuasion]” = The success of those peddling a false gospel message will NOT be due to their skills of biblical interpretation, breadth of knowledge in relation to both the Old and New Testaments or their ability to prove their gospel is indeed the correct one through demonstrating its consistency with the rest of God’s redemptive plan through the Scriptures. Rather, these individuals will win people through connection to people’s emotions. IOW: The support for their gospel (or interpretation of certain texts in the bible) will be driven more by how they make you feel than what the facts really are. Examples of methods used in this regard will include: catchy slogans and phrases which promote the use of feelings as a trustworthy guide to truth (e.g. “Follow/trust your heart”, “Your heart will never lead you astray”, “How can something that feels so right be so wrong?”), telling captivating/sensational/suspenseful/funny/sad/heartwarming stories, sharing supernatural experiences (visions/dreams), performing skits/plays, distracting thru the use of trivial/titillating data (e.g. spending the majority of the sermon talking about Bethlehem’s manger-caves), deploying fallacious – yet intellectually sounding arguments (e.g. ad-hoc: “according to the dog’s brownies”  = making stuff up that people may be inclined to feel is true as the means to establishing your point; e.g. “By nature, our consciences are hardwired to the covenant of works. The default of the old nature is mentally to slide back under the covenant of works.” – Nicholas Batzig [“Legalism Defined”]; Col 2:8; 1Ti 6:20). All things meant to distract us away from the facts and convince/persuade thru feelings (Jud 1:4-8). The Christian that does not stay in continual remembrance of (or grow strong in) the facts regarding the true gospel message (i.e. the G&M gospel presented by Peter in 1:5-11), is the prime target of false teachers (i.e. the G &NO M gospel) since: human depravity already makes the idea of maintaining (i.e. the obligation of obedience) difficult for/distasteful to us (i.e. our sinful nature is anti-obedience; 1Jo 3:4), human discernment will always be governed by feelings when knowledge of the (biblical) facts is weak (2Pe 2:14 – “They entice unsteady souls”, 18 – “they entice by sensual passions of the flesh those who are barely escaping from those who live in error”; Jud 1:10; Eph 4:11-14; Heb 3:12-13, 5:11-14).

2.3. B/C this heretical “gain but no maintain” group will speak with bold ignorance against the true gospel (of G&M) and its followers (i.e. true Christians) as though it were us and not them who were condemned to Hell (2:2b-12).

(2b) “because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed” = The success of the false teachers’ feelings (versus facts), approach and gospel heresy of gain BUT no maintain, will cause the true gospel (of G&M) to be viewed as the wrong one. As a result, a tragic turning of the tables will occur. The only gospel that can save (again, the true gospel of G&M) wb cursed/condemned as false (and therefore damning) whereas the heresy (of G& NO M) wb touted as the truth (2Ti 4:3). Such condemnation (however) will not be reserved for the true gospel alone. According to Peter, they will also attempt to condemn true Christians as well. (10b) “bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones” = True Christians – those committed to maintain their justified state through righteous practice/ living. These will likewise become a target of the heretical (G & NO M) group’s bold and blasphemous campaign (2Ti 3:12). That the term “glorious ones” does indeed refer to those who believe faithful/righteous living is necessary (to maintain) as part of the true gospel message is irrefutable once one considers those Peter offers up as his examples (of “glorious ones”) in the previous verses (Noah and Lot): (5) “Noah, the herald of righteousness”, (7) “righteous Lot greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked (8) for as that righteous man lived among them day after day, he was tormenting his righteous soul over their lawless deeds” = Practical righteousness (i.e. righteous, faithful obedient living) is clearly what is being referred to in these verses given what it stands in contrast to (“sensual conduct”, “lawless deeds”). This (then) is why Peter calls such individuals, “the glorious ones” – b/c of their commitment to practicing righteousness. That such righteous/obedient practice is being viewed as indeed necessary (i.e. you MUST maintain what you gain) and the differing factor between the true gospel and that which is false is also made clear by the differing eternal outcomes communicated by Peter  in relation to those practicing righteousness/obedience (vs. those who don’t) and his attachment of the latter to those he is identifying as the false gospel teachers (4-10) = Like the fallen angels or the wicked people of Noah and Lot’s day (the “ancient world” of “long ago”) –  who also thought what they did would not affect their eternal outcome, Peter assures us that the false gospel teachers (and those who embrace/follow their message) in our day are equally in for a big, damning surprise (“their destruction is not asleep”, they are kept “under punishment until the day of judgment.”), whereas those who knew what they did mattered (and subsequently obeyed), wb “preserved” (or protected)  – even in relation to those who persecute us (“the Lord know to rescue the godly from [their] trials”).The false gospel gang will nonetheless (and once more) continue to act as though they are the ones on their way to heaven. What else (then) to remember is not only what they do (i.e. condemn the true gospel and us) but how they do it since this (too) Peter knew to be important in keeping God’s people of the right gospel path. Two ways: (first) despising authority of Christ = (10b) “who…despise authority [Anti-LBS, “you can have Jesus as Savior w/o submitting to Him as Lord”, see again 2:1; CONTRA E.G. “In Christ, we are carried directly to heaven, no work necessary on our part. Only when you realize that the gospel has nothing to do with your obedience but with Christ’s obedience for you, will you start to obey. The only Christians who end up getting better are those who realize that if they don’t get better, God will love them anyway. The only ‘if’ the Gospel knows is this: ‘if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.’ (1 John 2:1) The gospel liberates us to be okay with not being okay. We know we’re not—though we try very hard to convince other people we are. But the gospel tells us, “Relax, it is finished. Christians can uncouple performance from identity. After all, don’t we live our lives under a banner that reads “It is finished”? Wasn’t that Jesus’s final pronouncement from the cross? Thankfully for Peter (and for us), when Peter calls out for a Savior, Jesus springs into action. Matthew says that, “Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him” (v. 31 NRSV). There is no hesitation. No requirement. Just salvation. Sanctification is the daily hard work of going back to the reality of our justification.” – Tullian Tchividjian, [It is Finished: 365 of Good News; Jesus + Nothing = Everything; One Way Love: Inexhaustible Grace for an Exhausted World], (second) erroneous interpretation/understanding of the Scripture due to irrational thinking and biblical ignorance = (10b-12), (3a) “In their greed they will exploit [lit. attempt to engage] you with false words [i.e. false words regarding what the bible actually teaches– see 3:16]”.

Theme: REMEMBER THE GOSPEL!

2nd Peter represents the Apostle Peter’s 2^nd epistle. Written shortly after the first, the distinguishing mark of this letter is not only its focus on the gospel, but its efficient and effective presentation. In this respect, Peter does two things. First, he reminds us of what the (true) gospel teaches (1:1-5), then he provides us with those reasons we should not only remember what this gospel teaches, but also why it is important that we are growing strong in our commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18).

1. What Peter reminds us is the true/saving gospel message (1:1-15):

1.1. Through faith in the righteousness of Christ we GAIN a justified state (or “standing”) with God (i.e. forgiveness from the eternal penalty of sin) (1-2).

1.2.  Through faith in Christ we also GAIN a glorified/exalted state (or “standing”) before God (i.e. empowerment for godly living, the promise of eternal life and freedom from the bondage to sin) (3-4: TRANSLATION = YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!).

1.3. Though we have GAINED a justified and glorified state through faith in Christ, we MUST MAINTAIN this state/standing through faithfulness (5a – “make every effort to supplement [giving all diligence add to – KJV] your faith”).

1.4. Such maintaining should not surprise us given the reason God justified/glorified us, as well as the commitment we made in order to gain that justification.

(5a) “For this very reason” = The basis of our maintaining is established in God’s purpose for setting us free from the penalty and power of sin (3-4 = It was so that (again) “we might become partakers of the divine nature having escaped the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire” -i.e.  that we could (and would) live faithfully unto His Law (the opposite of sinful desire – 1Jo 3:4) and be worthy of inheriting the heavenly (or divine) nature of the world to come (1Jo 3:1-10; 1Co 15:40-49; Luk 20:35; 2Th 1:5-11). IOW: We were justified/glorified for the purpose of maintaining what we (so graciously) gained! This (too) according to Peter’s 1^st epistle, is the commitment we made in order to receive God’s saving gift (1Pe 1:14-25 = We were “ransomed with the precious blood of Christ” [18-19] for the purpose of being “holy” [14-17 – i.e. faithful, careful obedience to God’s Law – Deu 32:51], and escaping the “futile ways inherited by our forefathers” [18 – i.e. the sinful lifestyle of our pagan ancestors] “since” this was the pre-requisite to being “purified” or justified – i.e. we must commit in “obedience to the truth”, to obey the “living and abiding Word of God” [22-23a, see also verse 1]; also to being “born again” or baptized [23b, 3:21 w/Joh 3:1-5]. Abiding in faithfulness to God’s Word/Law is the only thing that will [like itself] cause us to “remain forever” [25a]. IOW: what we gained in our baptism/new birth needs to be maintained if we want to go to heaven. This then will always be a part of the “good news” message “preached” if it is the true and saving gospel we have received [25b]). As such, it sb no shocker (then) to hear that maintaining (in faithfulness) what we gained is what God expects from us. It certainly wasn’t for those Peter was writing to in either epistle.

1.5. Faithful maintaining looks like growing in those areas/attributes of obedience God commands in His Word (5b-8: “virtue” = faithfulness to God’s Law. All the remaining areas/attributes function as the means to accomplishing this first area/attribute).

1.6. Failing to maintain means losing what we gained.

(9) “blind” = Spiritual blindness in relation to salvation (Isa 59:10-11); “forgotten” = Left behind (vs. unable to remember; Eze 23:35; also Eze 18:24). Nearsighted blindness and forgotten cleansing are both metaphors meant to refer to loss of a person’s justified state/right standing with God; that they have been blotted out of His book of life as the consequence of their refusal to obey (Deu 29:20 w/Rev 3:5; Psa 69:23, 28; Jer 18:13-23 – the blotting here is in re: to sin but carries the same idea since these are covenant individuals Jeremiah is speaking about. Hence, to not blot out their sin, will most assuredly result in them being blotted out of the book of life – consider again Deu 29:20 = no blotting of sin means blotting out of the book of life). IOW: Our continued freedom from sin’s enslaving power and eternal penalty is dependent on our continued commitment to be faithful to God’s Law (i.e. we can go back under both sin’s power and penalty – 2:20).

1.7. Faithfulness in maintaining what we have gained will mean salvation (i.e. Faith + Faithfulness = Salvation NOT Faith + Nothing = Salvation).

(10-11) “Therefore brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and election sure [firm, valid or reliable – 2Pe 1:19; Heb 3:14, 9:17]” = Determining whether or not we are (or were ever a part of) the elect is not in Peter’s mind -nor good theology since one’s calling/election does not (in itself) guarantee final salvation – see 1Th 1:4 w/3:5). To speak in such a way (i.e. those who do not persevere never were the elect/called) is like saying that a man whose marriage ends in divorce was never married. What Peter is instead communicating (here) is that we are the ones who will determine whether the “calling and election” we gained through faith in Christ remains valid on judgment day by our deeds. Hence why the Scripture only ever speaks of being judged according to our deeds (1Pe 1:17; Rom 2:6-8; Rev 20:11-15; 2Co 5:10). (Again) notice the burden/responsibility for living the Christian life is placed upon us (not God/HS – Rom 8:16 = the way the HS testifies is through our fulfillment of God’s Law as we walk in obedience to His desire in this respect – see the prior verses and context, 1-15). “for if you practice these qualities” [i.e. if you maintain…then] “you will never fail” = Peter affirms in very clear language that salvation wb conditioned upon our faithfulness. Notice also he affirms this to be the true way to heaven—i.e. final salvation, “For in this way there wb richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom”. As a means to better understanding what Peter is saying here consider the antithesis: “If you do not practice these qualities you WILL FAIL and the entrance into the eternal kingdom will not be richly supplied.” The Apostle James preached the same message (Jam 2:14-26). How controversial Peter and James’ words are to the Evangelical Christian view. CONTRA E.G.: 1) “Believers may fall into sin through neglect and temptation whereby they grieve the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, and bring reproach on the cause of Christ and temporal judgments on themselves; yet they shall be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.” – Article V, Southern Baptist Church Faith and Message). 2) “What I’m most deeply grateful for is that God’s love for us, approval of us, and commitment to us does not ride on our resolve but on Jesus’s resolve for us. The gospel is the good news announcing Jesus’s infallible devotion to us despite our inconsistent devotion to Him. The gospel is not a command to hang on to Jesus; it’s a promise that no matter how weak and unsuccessful our faith and efforts may be, God is always holding on to us.” – Tullian Tchividjian (It Is Finished: 365 Days of Good News)

1.8. Peter thought it was incredibly important to remind believers of these specific “qualities” (G&M) of the true/saving gospel message.

(12-15) “I intend always to remind you of these qualities…I think it right as long as I am in this body” = Though Peter did write about other things (e.g. his 1^st epistle), the G&M gospel took center stage when it came to priority of teaching. “I will make every effort so after my departure you may be able to recall these things” = IOW: this particular gospel message could not die with him. Peter would “therefore” do whatever it took to see that Christians (both in his day and the future) grew strong in their recollection and commitment to the G&M gospel. The message presented in the previous verses was just that important.

2. Why Peter thought it was so important to not only remind believers of this gospel (of G&M) but see that they were growing strong in their commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18):

2.1. B/C the gospel (of G&M) is not the false teaching of men, but the message of both Christ (whom God Himself affirmed) and the OT Scriptures.

(16-21) “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths” = A gospel message which sounds right or seems to make sense but lacks Divine and Scriptural support/authority. “when we (“rather/instead” – avlla) made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ; but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty…when He received glory (or affirmation) from God the Father…we ourselves heard this” = This is where Peter got his gospel. It was the message of God’s powerful Son at His coming. It was also a message supported by/congruent w/the OT Scriptures; “And we have something more sure [i.e. reliable], the prophetic word…the “prophecy of Scripture” not “from someone’s interpretation…nor produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” = Those portions of the OT Scriptures which prophesied about the coming NC, confirmed that it (like its predecessors) wb a gospel of G&M (see Jer 31:33 [“law written on their hearts” = inward justification gained by faith], 34 [“know Me” = relationship w/God maintained thru outward obedience/faithfulness] w/Heb 10:15-18; Rom 2:6-29 w/3:28-30; 1Jo 2:1-7; G&M was mechanics of the preceding gospels – e.g. Abrahamic = Gen 17:1-7, 18:17-19; Mosaic/Old = Exo 24:7-8; Deu 7:9, 29:9-20). “to which you do well to pay attention…until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts” = The day of Christ’s return. As such, this represents not only another affirmation of maintaining of what we have gained (i.e. maintain until the end/Christ’s return), but also a serious warning in light of the authority by which the message comes (Christ and the Scriptures). We dare not neglect or forget it!

2nd Peter represents the Apostle Peter’s 2^nd epistle. Written shortly after the first, the distinguishing mark of this letter is not only its focus on the saving gospel, but its efficient and effective presentation. In this respect, Peter does two things. First, he reminds us of what the saving gospel teaches (1:1-5), then he provides us with those reasons we should not only remember what this gospel teaches, but also why it is important that we are growing strong in our commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18).

1. What Peter reminds us about the saving gospel message (1:1-15):

1.1. Through faith in the righteousness of Christ we GAIN a justified state (or “standing”) with God (i.e. forgiveness from the eternal penalty of sin).

(1-2)

1.2.  Through faith in Christ we also GAIN a glorified/exalted state (or “standing”) before God (i.e. empowerment for godly living, the promise of eternal life and freedom from the bondage to sin).

(3-4) “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness through the knowledge of Him…by which he [also] granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you might become partakers of the divine nature” = faith-gained empowerment for godly living and the promise of eternal life; “having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire” = freedom from bondage to sin (see Rom 8:29-30 w/1-3 = justified, 4-11 = glorified; see 2Co 3:17-18; also consider Rom 6:4).

1.3. Though we have GAINED a justified and glorified state through faith in Christ, we MUST MAINTAIN this state/standing through faithfulness (i.e. Christianity = Marriage = Gain + Maintain NOT simply Gain).

(5a – “make every effort to supplement [giving all diligence add to – KJV] your faith” = Be faithful to maintain what you gained. IOW: more than faith is demanded by God (i.e. is necessary) to be saved. Notice, the responsibility (of supplementing/adding) is placed squarely upon us (versus it being something that is produced by God). Consider also, that the Scriptures never call Christians to give such attention or diligence to their faith (i.e. make every effort to really, really, really believe!). After we have gained our marriage to Christ thru faith (Eph 5:22-32), our concentration becomes the same as any earthly marriage – MAINTAINING thru faithfulness; CONTRA E.G. = “To focus on how I’m doing more than what Christ has done is Christian narcissism. Because Jesus was someone, you’re free to be no one.” – Tullian Tchividjian (Jesus + Nothing = Everything)

1.4. Faithful maintaining looks like growing in those areas/attributes of obedience God commands in His Word.

(5b-8: “virtue” [avreth = moral excellence – NAS]” = Bible-based behavior, excellency as revealed in the character, work and wisdom of God – see v3; Rom 2:18; Phi 4:8; Isa 30:21; *all the other areas/attributes of obedience function as the means by which we achieve this first area/attribute – Phi 1:9-10 // “knowledge” = Special Rev/General Rev for determining what is excellent – again Phi 1:9-10; Isa 5:13 w/8:20-22, 27:11 w/28:23-29 // “self-control” = Able to put knowledge into practice and say ‘no’ to ungodliness – Act 24:25; Tit 2:11-12 // “steadfastness” = Perseverance; consistency, commitment or self-control that is not subject to circumstance – 2Ti 4:2; Mat 10:21-22; e.g. Mat 13:18-23; often a function of aptitude – Deu 8:11-20; Psa 78:5-23 // “godliness” = Sound theology, doctrine or gospel that sees persevering obedience to God’s Law as necessary to salvation – 1Ti 4:6-8 w/1:8-11; consider how God acts “godly” – by acting according to His Law; the Law is simply an expression of God’s character // “brotherly affection” = Loving loyalty to our covenant family in accordance w/the 2^nd greatest commandment or expression of godliness/God’s character – Mat 22:39 // “love” = Loyalty to God as the greatest commandment or expression of brotherly kindness – Mat 22:37-38; 1Jo 5:2; *in agreement w/ these last two is where our Christian life begins). CONTRA E.G. = “Real spiritual growth happens as we look up to Christ and what he did, not into ourselves and how we’re doing.” – Tullian Tchividjian (Jesus + Nothing = Everything).

1.5. Failing to maintain means losing what we gained.

(9) = Nearsighted blindness and forgotten cleansing are both metaphors meant to refer to loss of a person’s justified state/right standing with God; Isa 59:10-11; Eze 18:24). IOW: Our continued freedom from sin’s enslaving power and eternal penalty is dependent on us (i.e. we can go back under both sin’s power and penalty – 2:20).

1.6. Faithfulness in maintaining what we have gained will mean salvation (i.e. Faith + Faithfulness = Salvation NOT Faith + Nothing = Salvation).

(10-11 = Notice he affirms salvation to be conditioned upon our faithfulness: “if you practice these qualities” – i.e. if you maintain…then “you will never fail”; Notice also he affirms this to be the true way to heaven—i.e. final salvation, “For in this way there wb richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom…”; Consider the antithesis: “If you do not practice these qualities you WILL FAIL and the entrance into the eternal kingdom will not be richly supplied.” The Apostle James preached the same message (Jam 2:14-26). How controversial Peter and James’ words are to the Evangelical Christian view. CONTRA E.G.: 1) “Believers may fall into sin through neglect and temptation whereby they grieve the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, and bring reproach on the cause of Christ and temporal judgments on themselves; yet they shall be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.” – Article V, Southern Baptist Church Faith and Message). 2) “What I’m most deeply grateful for is that God’s love for us, approval of us, and commitment to us does not ride on our resolve but on Jesus’s resolve for us. The gospel is the good news announcing Jesus’s infallible devotion to us despite our inconsistent devotion to Him. The gospel is not a command to hang on to Jesus; it’s a promise that no matter how weak and unsuccessful our faith and efforts may be, God is always holding on to us.” – Tullian Tchividjian (It Is Finished: 365 Days of Good News)

1.7. Peter thought it was incredibly important to remind believers of these specific “qualities” (G&M) of the saving gospel message.

(12-15) “I intend always to remind you of these qualities…I think it right as long as I am in this body” = Though Peter did write about other things (e.g. his 1^st epistle), the G&M gospel took center stage when it came to priority of teaching. “I will make every effort so after my departure you may be able to recall these things” = This particular gospel message could not die with him. Peter would “therefore” do whatever it took to see that Christians (both in his day and the future) grew strong in their recollection and commitment to the G&M gospel. The message presented in the previous verses was just that important.

2. Why Peter thought it was so important to not only remind believers of this gospel (of G&M) but see that they were growing strong in their commitment to its truths (1:16-3:18):

2.1. B/C this gospel is not the false teaching of men, but the message of both Christ (whom God Himself affirmed) and the OT Scriptures.

(16-21) “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths” = A gospel message which sounds right or seems to make sense but lacks Divine and Scriptural support/authority. “when we (“rather/instead” ) made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ; but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty…He received glory (or affirmation) from God the Father…we ourselves heard this” = This is where Peter got his gospel message. It was the message of God’s powerful Son at His coming. “And we have something more sure, the prophetic word…(the “prophecy of Scripture” not “produced by the will of man, but…from God…the Holy Spirit”) = This (also) is where Peter’s message came from; it is the same gospel found in the OT Scriptures – especially those portions which prophesied of the NC to come (see Jer 31:33 [“law written on their hearts” = inward justification gained by faith], 34 [“know Me” = relationship w/God maintained thru outward obedience/faithfulness] w/Rom 2:6-29 w/3:28-30; 1Jo 2:1-7). “to which you do well to pay attention…until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts” = The day of Christ’s return. As such, this represents not only another affirmation of maintaining of what we have gained (i.e. maintain until the end/Christ’s return), but also a serious warning in light of the authority by which the message comes (Christ and the Scriptures). We dare not neglect or forget it!

2 Peter 1
1. You will be dismissing a major focus in not only the ministry of Peter, but also Jesus and the Apostles.
2. You will be discounting the authority of Peter’s office.
3. You will be denying the divine support for Peter’s interpretation of the Christian Faith.