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Created page with "{{Infobox_Contents | topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : Peter | subtopics = Peter | opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}} * Text:EBD:Pete..."
{{Infobox_Contents |
topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : Peter |
subtopics = [[Apostle Peter|Peter]] |
opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}}
* [[Text:EBD:Peter, Second Epistle of|Easton's Bible Dictionary entry on Peter]] |
}}
Read the [[Second Epistle of Peter|Peter]] from the [[Holy Bible|Bible]]
{{chapters}}
[[2 Peter 1|1]]
[[2 Peter 2|2]]
[[2 Peter 3|3]]
==Commentary==
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Peter 1|1]]
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Peter 2|2]]
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Peter 3|3]]
{{mhc import}}
'''Commentary on the [Second Epistle of Peter]]'''
This epistle clearly is connected with the former epistle of [[ Peter]]. The apostle having stated the blessings to which [[God]] has called [[Christians]], exhorts those who had received these precious gifts, to endeavour to improve in graces and virtues. They are urged to this from the wickedness of false teachers. They are guarded against impostors and scoffers, by disproving their false assertions, ch. 3:1-7, and by showing why the great day of [[Christ]]'s coming was delayed, with a description of its awful circumstances and consequences; and suitable exhortations to diligence and [[holiness]] are given.
----
'''Chapter''' 1
''Chapter Outline''
Exhortations to add the exercise of various other graces to faith.
(1-11)
The apostle looks forward to his approaching decease.
(12-15)
And confirms the truth of the [[gospel]], relating to [[Christ]]'s appearing to judgment.
(16-21)
'''Verses''' 1-11
Faith unites the weak [[believer]] to [[Christ]], as really as it does the strong one, and purifies the [[heart]] of one as truly as of another; and every sincere [[believer]] is by his [[faith]] justified in the sight of [[God]]. Faith worketh [[godliness]], and produces effects which no other [[grace]] in the soul can do. In [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] all fulness dwells, and [[pardon]] , [[peace]], grace, and knowledge, and new principles, are thus given through the [[Holy Spirit]]. The promises to those who are partakers of a Divine nature, will cause us to inquire whether we are really renewed in the spirit of our minds; let us turn all these promises into [[prayer]]s for the transforming and purifying [[grace]] of the [[Holy Spirit]]. The [[believer]] must add knowledge to his virtue, increasing acquaintance with the whole truth and will of [[God]]. We must add temperance to knowledge; moderation about worldly things; and add to temperance, patience, or cheerful submission to the will of [[God]]. Tribulation worketh patience, whereby we bear all calamities and crosses with silence and submission. To patience we must add [[godliness]]: this includes the holy affections and dispositions found in the true worshipper of [[God]]; with tender affection to all fellow [[Christians]], who are [[children]] of the same Father, servants of the same Master, members of the same family, travellers to the same country, heirs of the same inheritance. Wherefore let [[Christians]] labour to attain assurance of their calling, and of their election, by believing and well-doing; and thus carefully to endeavour, is a firm argument of the [[grace]] and [[mercy]] of [[God]], upholding them so that they shall not utterly fall. Those who are diligent in the work of [[religion]], shall have a triumphant entrance into that everlasting kingdom where [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] reigns, and they shall reign with him for ever and ever; and it is in the practice of every good work that we are to expect entrance to heaven.
'''Verses''' 12-15
We must be established in the belief of the truth, that we may not be shaken by every wind of doctrine; and especially in the truth necessary for us to know in our day, what belongs to our [[peace]], and what is opposed in our time. The body is but a tabernacle, or tent, of the soul. It is a mean and movable dwelling. The nearness of [[death]] makes the apostle diligent in the business of life. Nothing can so give composure in the prospect, or in the hour, of death, as to know that we have faithfully and simply followed the [[Lord]] [[Jesus]], and sought his glory. Those who [[fear]] the [[Lord]], talk of his loving-kindness. This is the way to spread the knowledge of the [[Lord]]; and by the written word, they are enabled to do this.
'''Verses''' 16-21
The [[gospel]] is no weak thing, but comes in power, Ro 1:16. The law sets before us our wretched state by [[sin]], but there it leaves us. It discovers our disease, but does not make known the cure. It is the sight of [[Jesus]] crucified, in the [[gospel]], that heals the soul. Try to dissuade the covetous worlding from his greediness, one ounce of gold weighs down all reasons. Offer to stay a furious man from [[anger]] by arguments, he has not patience to hear them. Try to detain the licentious, one smile is stronger with him than all reason. But come with the [[gospel]], and urge them with the precious blood of [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], shed to save their souls from hell, and to satisfy for their sins, and this is that powerful pleading which makes good men confess that their hearts burn within them, and bad men, even an Agrippa, to say they are almost persuaded to be [[Christians]], Ac 26:28. [[God]] is well pleased with [[Christ]], and with us in him. This is the [[Messiah]] who was promised, through whom all who believe in him shall be accepted and saved. The truth and reality of the [[gospel]] also are foretold by the prophets and penmen of the Old Testament, who spake and wrote under influence, and according to the direction of the [[Spirit]] of [[God]]. How firm and sure should our [[faith]] be, who have such a firm and sure word to rest upon! When the light of the Scripture is darted into the blind mind and dark understanding, by the [[Holy Spirit]] of [[God]], it is like the day-break that advances, and diffuses itself through the whole soul, till it makes perfect day. As the Scripture is the revelation of the mind and will of [[God]], every man ought to search it, to understand the sense and meaning. The [[Christian]] knows that book to be the word of [[God]], in which he tastes a sweetness, and feels a power, and sees a glory, truly divine. And the prophecies already fulfilled in the person and [[salvation]] of [[Christ]], and in the great concerns of the [[church]] and the world, form an unanswerable proof of the truth of [[Christianity]]. The [[Holy Spirit|Holy Ghost]] inspired holy men to speak and write. He so assisted and directed them in delivering what they had received from him, that they clearly expressed what they made known. So that the Scriptures are to be accounted the words of the Holy Ghost, and all the plainness and simplicity, all the power and all the propriety of the words and expressions, come from [[God]]. Mix [[faith]] with what you find in the Scriptures, and esteem and reverence the [[Bible]] as a book written by holy men, taught by the [[Holy Spirit|Holy Ghost]].
----
'''Chapter''' 2
''Chapter Outline''
Believers are cautioned against false teachers, and the certainty of their punishment shown from examples.
(1-9)
An account of these seducers, as exceedingly wicked.
(10-16)
But as making high pretences to liberty and purity.
(17-22)
'''Verses''' 1-9
Though the way of error is a hurtful way, many are always ready to walk therein. Let us take care we give no occasion to the enemy to blaspheme the holy name whereby we are called, or to speak evil of the way of [[salvation]] by [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. These seducers used feigned words, they deceived the hearts of their followers. Such are condemned already, and the wrath of [[God]] abides upon them. [[God]]'s usual method of proceeding is shown by examples. Angels were cast down from all their [[glory]] and dignity, for their disobedience. If creatures [[sin]], even in heaven, they must suffer in hell. Sin is the work of darkness, and darkness is the wages of sin. See how [[God]] dealt with the old world. The number of offenders no more procures favour, than their quality. If the [[sin]] be universal, the punishment shall likewise extend to all. If in a fruitful soil the people abound in [[sin]], [[God]] can at once turn a fruitful land into barrenness, and a well-watered country into ashes. No plans or politics can keep off judgments from a sinful people. He who keeps fire and water from hurting his people, Isa 43:2, can make either destroy his enemies; they are never safe. When [[God]] sends destruction on the ungodly, he commands deliverance for the righteous. In bad company we cannot but get either guilt or grief. Let the sins of others be troubles to us. Yet it is possible for the [[children]] of the [[Lord]], living among the most profane, to retain their integrity; there being more power in the [[grace]] of [[Christ]], and his dwelling in them, than in the [[temptations]] of [[Satan]], or the example of the wicked, with all their terrors or allurements. In our intentions and inclinations to commit [[sin]], we meet with strange hinderances, if we mark them When we intend mischief, [[God]] sends many stops to hinder us, as if to say, Take heed what you do. His wisdom and power will surely effect the purposes of his love, and the engagements of his truth; while wicked men often escape suffering here, because they are kept to the day of judgment, to be punished with the devil and his angels.
'''Verses''' 10-16
Impure seducers and their abandoned followers, give themselves up to their own fleshly minds. Refusing to bring every thought to the obedience of [[Christ]], they act against [[God]]'s righteous precepts. They walk after the flesh, they go on in sinful courses, and increase to greater degrees of impurity and wickedness. They also despise those whom [[God]] has set in authority over them, and requires them to honour. Outward temporal good things are the wages sinners expect and promise themselves. And none have more cause to tremble, than those who are bold to gratify their sinful lusts, by presuming on the [[Divine]] grace and [[mercy]]. Many such there have been, and are, who speak lightly of the restraints of [[God]]'s law, and deem themselves freed from obligations to obey it. Let [[Christians]] stand at a distance from such.
'''Verses''' 17-22
The word of truth is the water of life, which refreshes the souls that receive it; but deceivers spread and promote error, and are set forth as empty, because there is no truth in them. As clouds hinder the light of the sun, so do these darken counsel by words wherein there is no truth. Seeing that these men increase darkness in this world, it is very just that the mist of darkness should be their portion in the next. In the midst of their talk of liberty, these men are the vilest slaves; their own lusts gain a complete victory over them, and they are actually in bondage. When men are entangled, they are easily overcome; therefore [[Christians]] should keep close to the word of [[God]], and watch against all who seek to bewilder them. A state of apostacy is worse than a state of ignorance. To bring an evil report upon the good way of [[God]], and a false charge against the way of truth, must expose to the heaviest condemnation. How dreadful is the state here described! Yet though such a case is deplorable, it is not utterly hopeless; the leper may be made clean, and even the dead may be raised. Is thy backsliding a grief to thee? Believe in the [[Lord]] [[Jesus]], and thou shalt be saved.
----
'''Chapter''' 3
''Chapter Outline''
The design here is to remind of [[Christ]]'s final coming to judgement.
(1-4)
He will appear unexpectedly, when the present frame of nature will be dissolved by fire.
(5-10)
From thence is inferred the need for [[holiness]], and stedfastness in the faith.
(11-18)
'''Verses''' 1-4
The purified minds of [[Christians]] are to be stirred up, that they may be active and lively in the work of [[holiness]]. There will be scoffers in the last days, under the [[gospel]], men who make light of [[sin]], and mock at [[salvation]] by [[Jesus]] [[Christ]]. One very principal article of our faith refers to what only has a promise to rest upon, and scoffers will attack it till our [[Lord]] is come. They will not believe that he will come. Because they see no changes, therefore they [[fear]] not [[God]], Ps 55:19. What he never has done, they fancy he never can do, or never will do.
'''Verses''' 5-10
Had these scoffers considered the dreadful vengeance with which [[God]] swept away a whole [[world]] of ungodly men at once, surely they would not have scoffed at his threatening an equally terrible judgment. The heavens and the earth which now are, by the same word, it is declared, will be destroyed by fire. This is as sure to come, as the truth and the power of [[God]] can make it. [[Christians]] are here taught and established in the truth of the coming of the [[Lord]]. Though, in the account of men, there is a vast difference between one day and a thousand years, yet, in the account of [[God]], there is no difference. All things past, present, and future, are ever before him: the delay of a thousand years cannot be so much to him, as putting off any thing for a day or for an hour is to us. If men have no knowledge or belief of the eternal [[God]], they will be very apt to think him such as themselves. How hard is it to form any thoughts of eternity! What men count slackness, is long-suffering, and that to us-ward; it is giving more time to his own people, to advance in knowledge and [[holiness]], and in the exercise of [[faith]] and patience, to abound in good works, doing and suffering what they are called to, that they may bring [[glory]] to [[God]]. Settle therefore in your hearts that you shall certainly be called to give an account of all things done in the body, whether good or evil. And let a humble and diligent walking before [[God]], and a frequent judging of yourselves, show a firm belief of the future judgment, though many live as if they were never to give any account at all. This day will come, when men are secure, and have no expectation of the day of the [[Lord]]. The stately palaces, and all the desirable things wherein wordly-minded men seek and place their happiness, shall be burned up; all sorts of creatures [[God]] has made, and all the works of men, must pass through the fire, which shall be a consuming fire to all that [[sin]] has brought into the world, though a refining fire to the works of [[God]]'s hand. What will become of us, if we set our affections on this earth, and make it our portion, seeing all these things shall be burned up? Therefore make sure of happiness beyond this visible world.
'''Verses''' 11-18
From the doctrine of [[Christ]]'s second coming, we are exhorted to purity and [[godliness]]. This is the effect of real knowledge. Very exact and universal [[holiness]] is enjoined, not resting in any low measure or degree. True [[Christians]] look for new heavens and a new earth; freed from the vanity to which things present are subject, and the [[sin]] they are polluted with. Those only who are clothed with the righteousness of [[Christ]], and sanctified by the [[Holy Spirit|Holy Ghost]], shall be admitted to dwell in this holy place. He is faithful, who has promised. Those, whose sins are [[pardon]] ed, and their [[peace]] made with [[God]], are the only safe and happy people; therefore follow after [[peace]], and that with all men; follow after [[holiness]] as well as [[peace]]. Never expect to be found at that day of [[God]] in [[peace]], if you are lazy and idle in this your day, in which we must finish the work given us to do. Only the diligent [[Christian]] will be the happy [[Christian]] in the day of the [[Lord]]. Our [[Lord]] will suddenly come to us, or shortly call us to him; and shall he find us idle? Learn to make a right use of the patience of our [[Lord]], who as yet delays his coming. Proud, carnal, and corrupt men, seek to wrest some things into a seeming agreement with their wicked doctrines. But this is no reason why St. Paul's epistles, or any other part of the Scriptures, should be laid aside; for men, left to themselves, pervert every gift of [[God]]. Then let us seek to have our minds prepared for receiving things hard to be understood, by putting in practice things which are more easy to be understood. But there must be self-denial and suspicion of ourselves, and submission to the authority of Christ [[Jesus]], before we can heartily receive all the truths of the [[gospel]], therefore we are in great danger of rejecting the truth. And whatever opinions and thoughts of men are not according to the law of [[God]], and warranted by it, the [[believer]] disclaims and abhors. Those who are led away by error, fall from their own stedfastness. And that we may avoid being led away, we must seek to grow in all grace, in faith, and virtue, and knowledge. Labour to know [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] more clearly, and more fully; to know him so as to be more like him, and to [[love]] him better. This is the knowledge of [[Christ]], which the apostle [[Paul]] reached after, and desired to attain; and those who taste this effect of the knowledge of the [[Lord]] and [[Saviour]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], will, upon receiving such grace from him, give thanks and praise him, and join in ascribing [[glory]] to him now, in the full assurance of doing the same hereafter, for ever.
{{mhc bottom}}
[[Category:MHC Concise Bible Commentary|Second Epistle of Peter]]
topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : Peter |
subtopics = [[Apostle Peter|Peter]] |
opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}}
* [[Text:EBD:Peter, Second Epistle of|Easton's Bible Dictionary entry on Peter]] |
}}
Read the [[Second Epistle of Peter|Peter]] from the [[Holy Bible|Bible]]
{{chapters}}
[[2 Peter 1|1]]
[[2 Peter 2|2]]
[[2 Peter 3|3]]
==Commentary==
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Peter 1|1]]
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Peter 2|2]]
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Peter 3|3]]
{{mhc import}}
'''Commentary on the [Second Epistle of Peter]]'''
This epistle clearly is connected with the former epistle of [[ Peter]]. The apostle having stated the blessings to which [[God]] has called [[Christians]], exhorts those who had received these precious gifts, to endeavour to improve in graces and virtues. They are urged to this from the wickedness of false teachers. They are guarded against impostors and scoffers, by disproving their false assertions, ch. 3:1-7, and by showing why the great day of [[Christ]]'s coming was delayed, with a description of its awful circumstances and consequences; and suitable exhortations to diligence and [[holiness]] are given.
----
'''Chapter''' 1
''Chapter Outline''
Exhortations to add the exercise of various other graces to faith.
(1-11)
The apostle looks forward to his approaching decease.
(12-15)
And confirms the truth of the [[gospel]], relating to [[Christ]]'s appearing to judgment.
(16-21)
'''Verses''' 1-11
Faith unites the weak [[believer]] to [[Christ]], as really as it does the strong one, and purifies the [[heart]] of one as truly as of another; and every sincere [[believer]] is by his [[faith]] justified in the sight of [[God]]. Faith worketh [[godliness]], and produces effects which no other [[grace]] in the soul can do. In [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] all fulness dwells, and [[pardon]] , [[peace]], grace, and knowledge, and new principles, are thus given through the [[Holy Spirit]]. The promises to those who are partakers of a Divine nature, will cause us to inquire whether we are really renewed in the spirit of our minds; let us turn all these promises into [[prayer]]s for the transforming and purifying [[grace]] of the [[Holy Spirit]]. The [[believer]] must add knowledge to his virtue, increasing acquaintance with the whole truth and will of [[God]]. We must add temperance to knowledge; moderation about worldly things; and add to temperance, patience, or cheerful submission to the will of [[God]]. Tribulation worketh patience, whereby we bear all calamities and crosses with silence and submission. To patience we must add [[godliness]]: this includes the holy affections and dispositions found in the true worshipper of [[God]]; with tender affection to all fellow [[Christians]], who are [[children]] of the same Father, servants of the same Master, members of the same family, travellers to the same country, heirs of the same inheritance. Wherefore let [[Christians]] labour to attain assurance of their calling, and of their election, by believing and well-doing; and thus carefully to endeavour, is a firm argument of the [[grace]] and [[mercy]] of [[God]], upholding them so that they shall not utterly fall. Those who are diligent in the work of [[religion]], shall have a triumphant entrance into that everlasting kingdom where [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] reigns, and they shall reign with him for ever and ever; and it is in the practice of every good work that we are to expect entrance to heaven.
'''Verses''' 12-15
We must be established in the belief of the truth, that we may not be shaken by every wind of doctrine; and especially in the truth necessary for us to know in our day, what belongs to our [[peace]], and what is opposed in our time. The body is but a tabernacle, or tent, of the soul. It is a mean and movable dwelling. The nearness of [[death]] makes the apostle diligent in the business of life. Nothing can so give composure in the prospect, or in the hour, of death, as to know that we have faithfully and simply followed the [[Lord]] [[Jesus]], and sought his glory. Those who [[fear]] the [[Lord]], talk of his loving-kindness. This is the way to spread the knowledge of the [[Lord]]; and by the written word, they are enabled to do this.
'''Verses''' 16-21
The [[gospel]] is no weak thing, but comes in power, Ro 1:16. The law sets before us our wretched state by [[sin]], but there it leaves us. It discovers our disease, but does not make known the cure. It is the sight of [[Jesus]] crucified, in the [[gospel]], that heals the soul. Try to dissuade the covetous worlding from his greediness, one ounce of gold weighs down all reasons. Offer to stay a furious man from [[anger]] by arguments, he has not patience to hear them. Try to detain the licentious, one smile is stronger with him than all reason. But come with the [[gospel]], and urge them with the precious blood of [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], shed to save their souls from hell, and to satisfy for their sins, and this is that powerful pleading which makes good men confess that their hearts burn within them, and bad men, even an Agrippa, to say they are almost persuaded to be [[Christians]], Ac 26:28. [[God]] is well pleased with [[Christ]], and with us in him. This is the [[Messiah]] who was promised, through whom all who believe in him shall be accepted and saved. The truth and reality of the [[gospel]] also are foretold by the prophets and penmen of the Old Testament, who spake and wrote under influence, and according to the direction of the [[Spirit]] of [[God]]. How firm and sure should our [[faith]] be, who have such a firm and sure word to rest upon! When the light of the Scripture is darted into the blind mind and dark understanding, by the [[Holy Spirit]] of [[God]], it is like the day-break that advances, and diffuses itself through the whole soul, till it makes perfect day. As the Scripture is the revelation of the mind and will of [[God]], every man ought to search it, to understand the sense and meaning. The [[Christian]] knows that book to be the word of [[God]], in which he tastes a sweetness, and feels a power, and sees a glory, truly divine. And the prophecies already fulfilled in the person and [[salvation]] of [[Christ]], and in the great concerns of the [[church]] and the world, form an unanswerable proof of the truth of [[Christianity]]. The [[Holy Spirit|Holy Ghost]] inspired holy men to speak and write. He so assisted and directed them in delivering what they had received from him, that they clearly expressed what they made known. So that the Scriptures are to be accounted the words of the Holy Ghost, and all the plainness and simplicity, all the power and all the propriety of the words and expressions, come from [[God]]. Mix [[faith]] with what you find in the Scriptures, and esteem and reverence the [[Bible]] as a book written by holy men, taught by the [[Holy Spirit|Holy Ghost]].
----
'''Chapter''' 2
''Chapter Outline''
Believers are cautioned against false teachers, and the certainty of their punishment shown from examples.
(1-9)
An account of these seducers, as exceedingly wicked.
(10-16)
But as making high pretences to liberty and purity.
(17-22)
'''Verses''' 1-9
Though the way of error is a hurtful way, many are always ready to walk therein. Let us take care we give no occasion to the enemy to blaspheme the holy name whereby we are called, or to speak evil of the way of [[salvation]] by [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. These seducers used feigned words, they deceived the hearts of their followers. Such are condemned already, and the wrath of [[God]] abides upon them. [[God]]'s usual method of proceeding is shown by examples. Angels were cast down from all their [[glory]] and dignity, for their disobedience. If creatures [[sin]], even in heaven, they must suffer in hell. Sin is the work of darkness, and darkness is the wages of sin. See how [[God]] dealt with the old world. The number of offenders no more procures favour, than their quality. If the [[sin]] be universal, the punishment shall likewise extend to all. If in a fruitful soil the people abound in [[sin]], [[God]] can at once turn a fruitful land into barrenness, and a well-watered country into ashes. No plans or politics can keep off judgments from a sinful people. He who keeps fire and water from hurting his people, Isa 43:2, can make either destroy his enemies; they are never safe. When [[God]] sends destruction on the ungodly, he commands deliverance for the righteous. In bad company we cannot but get either guilt or grief. Let the sins of others be troubles to us. Yet it is possible for the [[children]] of the [[Lord]], living among the most profane, to retain their integrity; there being more power in the [[grace]] of [[Christ]], and his dwelling in them, than in the [[temptations]] of [[Satan]], or the example of the wicked, with all their terrors or allurements. In our intentions and inclinations to commit [[sin]], we meet with strange hinderances, if we mark them When we intend mischief, [[God]] sends many stops to hinder us, as if to say, Take heed what you do. His wisdom and power will surely effect the purposes of his love, and the engagements of his truth; while wicked men often escape suffering here, because they are kept to the day of judgment, to be punished with the devil and his angels.
'''Verses''' 10-16
Impure seducers and their abandoned followers, give themselves up to their own fleshly minds. Refusing to bring every thought to the obedience of [[Christ]], they act against [[God]]'s righteous precepts. They walk after the flesh, they go on in sinful courses, and increase to greater degrees of impurity and wickedness. They also despise those whom [[God]] has set in authority over them, and requires them to honour. Outward temporal good things are the wages sinners expect and promise themselves. And none have more cause to tremble, than those who are bold to gratify their sinful lusts, by presuming on the [[Divine]] grace and [[mercy]]. Many such there have been, and are, who speak lightly of the restraints of [[God]]'s law, and deem themselves freed from obligations to obey it. Let [[Christians]] stand at a distance from such.
'''Verses''' 17-22
The word of truth is the water of life, which refreshes the souls that receive it; but deceivers spread and promote error, and are set forth as empty, because there is no truth in them. As clouds hinder the light of the sun, so do these darken counsel by words wherein there is no truth. Seeing that these men increase darkness in this world, it is very just that the mist of darkness should be their portion in the next. In the midst of their talk of liberty, these men are the vilest slaves; their own lusts gain a complete victory over them, and they are actually in bondage. When men are entangled, they are easily overcome; therefore [[Christians]] should keep close to the word of [[God]], and watch against all who seek to bewilder them. A state of apostacy is worse than a state of ignorance. To bring an evil report upon the good way of [[God]], and a false charge against the way of truth, must expose to the heaviest condemnation. How dreadful is the state here described! Yet though such a case is deplorable, it is not utterly hopeless; the leper may be made clean, and even the dead may be raised. Is thy backsliding a grief to thee? Believe in the [[Lord]] [[Jesus]], and thou shalt be saved.
----
'''Chapter''' 3
''Chapter Outline''
The design here is to remind of [[Christ]]'s final coming to judgement.
(1-4)
He will appear unexpectedly, when the present frame of nature will be dissolved by fire.
(5-10)
From thence is inferred the need for [[holiness]], and stedfastness in the faith.
(11-18)
'''Verses''' 1-4
The purified minds of [[Christians]] are to be stirred up, that they may be active and lively in the work of [[holiness]]. There will be scoffers in the last days, under the [[gospel]], men who make light of [[sin]], and mock at [[salvation]] by [[Jesus]] [[Christ]]. One very principal article of our faith refers to what only has a promise to rest upon, and scoffers will attack it till our [[Lord]] is come. They will not believe that he will come. Because they see no changes, therefore they [[fear]] not [[God]], Ps 55:19. What he never has done, they fancy he never can do, or never will do.
'''Verses''' 5-10
Had these scoffers considered the dreadful vengeance with which [[God]] swept away a whole [[world]] of ungodly men at once, surely they would not have scoffed at his threatening an equally terrible judgment. The heavens and the earth which now are, by the same word, it is declared, will be destroyed by fire. This is as sure to come, as the truth and the power of [[God]] can make it. [[Christians]] are here taught and established in the truth of the coming of the [[Lord]]. Though, in the account of men, there is a vast difference between one day and a thousand years, yet, in the account of [[God]], there is no difference. All things past, present, and future, are ever before him: the delay of a thousand years cannot be so much to him, as putting off any thing for a day or for an hour is to us. If men have no knowledge or belief of the eternal [[God]], they will be very apt to think him such as themselves. How hard is it to form any thoughts of eternity! What men count slackness, is long-suffering, and that to us-ward; it is giving more time to his own people, to advance in knowledge and [[holiness]], and in the exercise of [[faith]] and patience, to abound in good works, doing and suffering what they are called to, that they may bring [[glory]] to [[God]]. Settle therefore in your hearts that you shall certainly be called to give an account of all things done in the body, whether good or evil. And let a humble and diligent walking before [[God]], and a frequent judging of yourselves, show a firm belief of the future judgment, though many live as if they were never to give any account at all. This day will come, when men are secure, and have no expectation of the day of the [[Lord]]. The stately palaces, and all the desirable things wherein wordly-minded men seek and place their happiness, shall be burned up; all sorts of creatures [[God]] has made, and all the works of men, must pass through the fire, which shall be a consuming fire to all that [[sin]] has brought into the world, though a refining fire to the works of [[God]]'s hand. What will become of us, if we set our affections on this earth, and make it our portion, seeing all these things shall be burned up? Therefore make sure of happiness beyond this visible world.
'''Verses''' 11-18
From the doctrine of [[Christ]]'s second coming, we are exhorted to purity and [[godliness]]. This is the effect of real knowledge. Very exact and universal [[holiness]] is enjoined, not resting in any low measure or degree. True [[Christians]] look for new heavens and a new earth; freed from the vanity to which things present are subject, and the [[sin]] they are polluted with. Those only who are clothed with the righteousness of [[Christ]], and sanctified by the [[Holy Spirit|Holy Ghost]], shall be admitted to dwell in this holy place. He is faithful, who has promised. Those, whose sins are [[pardon]] ed, and their [[peace]] made with [[God]], are the only safe and happy people; therefore follow after [[peace]], and that with all men; follow after [[holiness]] as well as [[peace]]. Never expect to be found at that day of [[God]] in [[peace]], if you are lazy and idle in this your day, in which we must finish the work given us to do. Only the diligent [[Christian]] will be the happy [[Christian]] in the day of the [[Lord]]. Our [[Lord]] will suddenly come to us, or shortly call us to him; and shall he find us idle? Learn to make a right use of the patience of our [[Lord]], who as yet delays his coming. Proud, carnal, and corrupt men, seek to wrest some things into a seeming agreement with their wicked doctrines. But this is no reason why St. Paul's epistles, or any other part of the Scriptures, should be laid aside; for men, left to themselves, pervert every gift of [[God]]. Then let us seek to have our minds prepared for receiving things hard to be understood, by putting in practice things which are more easy to be understood. But there must be self-denial and suspicion of ourselves, and submission to the authority of Christ [[Jesus]], before we can heartily receive all the truths of the [[gospel]], therefore we are in great danger of rejecting the truth. And whatever opinions and thoughts of men are not according to the law of [[God]], and warranted by it, the [[believer]] disclaims and abhors. Those who are led away by error, fall from their own stedfastness. And that we may avoid being led away, we must seek to grow in all grace, in faith, and virtue, and knowledge. Labour to know [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] more clearly, and more fully; to know him so as to be more like him, and to [[love]] him better. This is the knowledge of [[Christ]], which the apostle [[Paul]] reached after, and desired to attain; and those who taste this effect of the knowledge of the [[Lord]] and [[Saviour]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], will, upon receiving such grace from him, give thanks and praise him, and join in ascribing [[glory]] to him now, in the full assurance of doing the same hereafter, for ever.
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[[Category:MHC Concise Bible Commentary|Second Epistle of Peter]]