Our study of Second Peter continues with revealing scripture that points to the author’s age and desire to pass on the truth about Jesus Christ.
In the salutation of this letter the apostle Peter invites his readers to be fruitful in their faith in Christ as they accept God’s mission for their lives. Coming at a price, the Christian walk is littered with sacrifice, persecution and in some cases torture. Ultimately all roads converge at physical death. Only those in Christ inherit eternal life, while those without reap what they sowed as they are cast into the lake of fire, into hell.
Peter now reminds his audience which he describes as being “firmly established in the truth”, Christians scattered throughout Pontus, Asia, Bithynia, Galatia and Cappadocia, the provinces of Asia Minor (present day Turkey).
“12 So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have.” (2 Peter 1:12)
For the first time in this letter Peter mentions “reminding” which even among strong Christians is a necessity as believers are continuously under attack by the enemy. Having already shared the truth about Jesus Christ, Peter praises his readers using the word “firmly” to describe their relationship versus the truth.
The next verses point out the fact Peter is aging and near death, never the less embraces the forthcoming fulfillment of his purpose driven mission as a disciple and apostle of Jesus Christ.
“13 I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, 14 because I know that I will soon put it aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me.” (2 Peter 1:13-14)
Peter describes his body as a tent, a temporary home for his spirit. As he faced death the apostle Peter ensured his testimony would continue to spread God’s word beyond his exodus from this life.
“15 And I will make every effort to see that after my departure you will always be able to remember these things. 16 We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” (2 Peter 1:15-16)
Peter then points out he was among those who witnessed the majesty of the Lord. He also mentions those who walk in Christ are right to believe in the Lord and to expect His return as promised and prophesied. Peter writes about both themes covered in this letter, the power of Christ and His second coming.
“17 For he received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” 18 We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.” (2 Peter 1:17-18)
Peter, John and James were present as Jesus was transfigured hence his testimony as such. It is no wonder the apostles’ lives were impacted so significantly thereafter.
While Peter’s personal experience and testimony should be sufficient, believers also have old testament prophecy to reply on when looking for confirmation of both the power of Christ and His majesty.
“19 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.” (2 Peter 1:19)
Brought on by the Holy Spirit and delivered through the lips or pens of God’s chosen seers, prophecies are inspired by God Himself. Not left to human interpretation prophecies are specific predictions of events to come. Once a biblical prophecy has come to pass it is glorified as part of God’s plan while predictions that remain unfulfilled become part of our King’s perfect promise to His children.
“20 Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:20-21)
I invite you to use the verses above in your life in the coming days as you continue to walk in Jesus’ footsteps. Remembering that the “tents” our souls inhabit through this life, and considering the fact sooner or later we all will face death just as Peter did, we can allow ourselves to embrace the finite aspect of our mission according to God’s will.
Rely on the power of the Lord, use His word to strengthen your spirit as you walk the narrow path that leads to eternal life in heaven. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Peter,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through trials,
Allow us to recognize each challenge as an opportunity to improve ourselves,
Fill our hearts Lord with your love, your kindness, with your wisdom,
Guide us to abide by your word as we endure through battles against evil
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
