2 Peter Introduction - KJV (King James Version)
Synopsis:
In this second letter, Peter describes (ch. 2) some twisted versions of Christian truth being taught. Recalling his experience of Christ's glory at the transfiguration (1:17-18), Peter explains the "more sure" truth of the gospel as an antidote to heresy. The gospel is like "a lamp shining in a dark place" (1:19). In chapter 3 Peter focuses on those who scoff at the idea of Christ's triumphant return and the final judgment. Just as God once destroyed the world with water, he will one day bring his fire to it. In light of this, we should live in "holiness and godliness" as we await his return and the salvation he has promised to all believers. Peter probably wrote this letter about a.d. 67-68, shortly before his death.
Authorship: Peter 'Cephas'
- Canonicity was disputed until the 4th century
- 1st Peter is more polished but Peter could use a different scribe (not Silvanus in 1st Peter)
- After Jerusalem Council (Acts 15) little is recorded about Peter
- 1 Cor 9:5 - Paul mentions Peter journeyed with his wife
- 2 Pet 3:15,16 - “our beloved brother Paul”
- Tradition states that Peter was crucified upside down by Nero in Rome
- Ignatius of Antioch wrote about Peter's presence in Rome in his Letter to the Romans.
- Clement I's Letter to the Corinthians and Tertullian's Prescription Against Heretics and Scorpiace 15 all speak of Peter's martyrdom.
Date of Composition: 64-66 AD
Simple Outline:
1. Holiness (1 Pet 1)
A. True Prophets (Ch 1)
2. Heresy (1 Pet 2)
A. False Prophets (Ch 2)
3. Hope (1 Pet 3)
A. Day of the Lord (Ch 3)
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