2 Peter

The book of 2 Peter is a New Testament epistle written by the Apostle Peter to the early church. It is believed to have been written around 65-68 AD, shortly before Peter's death. The purpose of the letter is to encourage the church to remain steadfast in their faith and to guard against false teachers who were beginning to infiltrate the church. The letter begins with Peter addressing the church as “beloved” and reminding them of the “true grace of God” that they have received. He then encourages them to “make every effort to supplement their faith” with virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. He warns them against false teachers who will try to lead them astray and encourages them to remember the words of the prophets and the apostles. Peter then goes on to remind the church of the promise of the Second Coming of Christ and the Day of Judgment. He encourages them to live holy lives in anticipation of this day and to be diligent in their faith. He also warns them against the “scoffers” who will mock the promise of Christ’s return. The letter ends with Peter reminding the church of the importance of growing in knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures. He encourages them to be “like newborn babies” and to “long for the pure spiritual milk” of the Word of God. He also warns them against being “carried away by the error of lawless people” and encourages them to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” In conclusion, the book of 2 Peter is a powerful reminder to the early church of the importance of remaining steadfast in their faith and of growing in knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures. It is a reminder of the promise of the Second Coming of Christ and the Day of Judgment and a warning against false teachers and scoffers. It is a reminder to the church to “make every effort to supplement their faith” with virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love.