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Introduction to 2 Peter

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of 2 Peter

  1. Introduction (1:1-2)
  2. Reminder to live good lives because God has enabled us to (1:3-21)
  3. Warning against false teachers (2:1-22)
  4. Encouragement to prepare for the second coming of Jesus (3:1-17)

Who wrote the Book of 2 Peter?

The author identified himself as Simon Peter. Simon Peter was an apostle. He also wrote 1 Peter. Peter probably wrote this letter while in a prison in Rome just before he died. Peter called this letter his second letter, so we can date it after 1 Peter. He addressed the letter to the same audience as his first letter. The audience probably was Christians scattered throughout Asia Minor.

What is the Book of 2 Peter about?

Peter wrote this letter to encourage believers to live good lives. He warned them about false teachers who were saying Jesus was taking too long to return. He told them that Jesus was not slow in returning. Instead, God was giving people time to repent so that they would be saved.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “2 Peter” or “Second Peter.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “The Second Letter from Peter” or “The Second Letter Peter Wrote.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Who were the people Peter spoke against?

It is possible that the people Peter spoke against were those who would become known as Gnostics. These teachers distorted the teachings of scripture for their own gain. They lived in immoral ways and taught others to do the same.

What does it mean that God inspired Scripture?

The doctrine of scripture is a very important one. 2 Peter helps readers to understand that while each writer of scripture had his own distinct way of writing, God is the true author of scripture (1:20-21).

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Singular and plural “you”

In this book, the word “I” refers to Peter. Also, the word “you” is always plural and refers to Peters audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 2 Peter?

For the following verses, some modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.

  • “to be kept in chains of lower darkness until the judgment” (2:4). Some modern versions and older versions have, “to be kept in pits of lower darkness until the judgment.”
  • “They enjoy their deceitful actions while they are feasting with you” (2:13). Some versions have, “They enjoy their actions while they are feasting with you in love feasts.”
  • “Beor” (2:15). Some other versions read, “Bosor.”
  • “The elements will be burned with fire, and the earth and the deeds in it will be revealed” (3:10). Other versions have, “The elements will be burned with fire, and the earth and the deeds in it will be burned up.”

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

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2 Peter 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Peter formally introduces this letter in verses 1-2. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.

Special concepts in this chapter

Knowledge of God

Having knowledge of God means to belong to him or to have a relationship with him. Here, “knowledge” is more than just mentally knowing about God. It is a knowledge that causes God to save a person and to give him grace and peace. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/know]])

Living godly lives

Peter teaches that God has given believers all that they need for living godly lives. Therefore, believers should do everything they can to obey God more and more. If believers continue to do this, then they will be effective and productive through their relationship with Jesus. However, if believers do not continue living godly lives, then it is like they have forgotten what God did through Christ to save them. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

The truth of Scripture

Peter teaches that the prophecies in Scripture were not made up by men. The Holy Spirit revealed Gods message to the men who spoke them or wrote them down. Also, Peter and the other apostles did not make up the stories they told people about Jesus. They witnessed what Jesus did and heard God call Jesus his son.

42PE11n1di0General Information:

Peter identifies himself as the writer and identifies and greets the believers he is writing to.

52PE11v381δοῦλος καὶ ἀπόστολος Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1slave and apostle of Jesus Christ

Peter speaks of being Jesus Christs servant. He also was given the position and authority of being Christs apostle.

62PE11yy7jfigs-explicitτοῖς ἰσότιμον…λαχοῦσιν πίστιν1to those who have received the same precious faith

That these people have received faith implies that God has given that faith to them. Alternate translation: “to those to whom God has given the same precious faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

72PE11mbg7τοῖς…λαχοῦσιν1to those who have received

“to you who have received.” Peter addresses all believers who may read this letter.

82PE11y157figs-exclusiveἡμῖν1we have received

Here the word “we” refers to Peter and the other apostles, but not to those to whom he is writing. Alternate translation: “we apostles have received” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

92PE12y7l9figs-explicitχάρις…καὶ εἰρήνη πληθυνθείη1May grace and peace increase in measure

God is the one who will give grace and peace to believers. Alternate translation: “May God increase your grace and your peace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

102PE12n59nfigs-metaphorχάρις…καὶ εἰρήνη πληθυνθείη1May grace and peace increase

Peter speaks of peace as if it were an object that could increase in size or numbers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

112PE12vq19figs-abstractnounsἐν ἐπιγνώσει τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν1in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord

You can translate “knowledge” using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “through your knowing God and Jesus our Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

122PE13ywj90General Information:

Peter begins to teach the believers about living godly lives.

132PE13epx9figs-hendiadysπρὸς ζωὴν καὶ εὐσέβειαν1for life and godliness

Here “godliness” describes the word “life.” Alternate translation: “for a godly life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])

142PE13an3zfigs-inclusiveτοῦ καλέσαντος ἡμᾶς1who called us

Here the word “us” refers to Peter and his audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])

152PE14m91mδι’ ὧν1Through these

Here “these” refers to “his own glory and virtue.”

162PE14f42fγένησθε…κοινωνοὶ1you might be sharers

“you might share”

172PE14yk7gθείας…φύσεως1the divine nature

what God is like

182PE14p2yjfigs-metaphorἀποφυγόντες τῆς ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ ἐν ἐπιθυμίᾳ φθορᾶς1having escaped the corruption in the world that is caused by evil desires

Peter speaks of people not suffering from the corruption that wicked desires cause as if they were escaping from that corruption. The word “corruption” is an abstract noun that can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “and so that the wicked desires in this world will no longer corrupt you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

192PE15exd9figs-explicitαὐτὸ τοῦτο1For this reason

This refers to what Peter has just said in the previous verses. Alternate translation: “Because of what God has done” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

202PE17a8tiτὴν φιλαδελφίαν1brotherly affection

This refers to love for a friend or family member and likely means love for ones spiritual family.

212PE18jz77ταῦτα1these things

This refers to faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love, which Peter mentioned in the previous verses.

222PE18l7yjfigs-metaphorοὐκ ἀργοὺς οὐδὲ ἀκάρπους καθίστησιν1you will not be barren or unfruitful

Peter speaks of a person who does not possess these qualities as if he is a field that will not produce a crop. This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: “you will produce and be fruitful” or “you will be effective” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

232PE18f9qmfigs-doubletἀργοὺς οὐδὲ ἀκάρπους1barren or unfruitful

These words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that this person will not be productive or experience any benefits from knowing Jesus. Alternate translation: “unproductive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

242PE18ppd8figs-abstractnounsεἰς τὴν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, ἐπίγνωσιν1in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ

You can translate “knowledge” using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “through your knowing God and Jesus our Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

252PE19gg2cᾧ…μὴ πάρεστιν ταῦτα1whoever lacks these things

any person who does not have these things

262PE19h6fnfigs-metaphorτυφλός ἐστιν μυωπάζων1is so nearsighted that he is blind

Peter speaks of a person who does not possess these qualities as if he were a nearsighted or blind person because he does not understand their value. Alternate translation: “is like a shortsighted person who cannot see their importance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

272PE19gq4dfigs-abstractnounsτοῦ καθαρισμοῦ τῶν πάλαι αὐτοῦ ἁμαρτιῶν1he has been cleansed from his past sins

You can use a verb to translate this. Alternate translation: “that God has cleansed him from his old sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

282PE110raa1figs-doubletβεβαίαν ὑμῶν τὴν κλῆσιν καὶ ἐκλογὴν ποιεῖσθαι1make your calling and election sure

The words “calling” and “election” share similar meanings and refer to Gods choosing them to belong to him. Alternate translation: “make sure that God has really chosen you to belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

292PE110jcv9figs-metaphorοὐ μὴ πταίσητέ1you will not stumble

Here the word “stumble” refers either to (1) committing sin. Alternate translation: “you will not practice sinful behavior” or (2) becoming unfaithful to Christ. Alternate translation: “you will not become unfaithful to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

302PE111f45vfigs-activepassiveπλουσίως ἐπιχορηγηθήσεται ὑμῖν ἡ εἴσοδος εἰς τὴν αἰώνιον βασιλείαν1there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will richly provide for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

312PE111k1e4ἡ εἴσοδος1an entrance

the opportunity to enter

322PE112du690Connecting Statement:

Peter tells the believers about his obligation to continue reminding them and teaching them.

332PE112l2khἐστηριγμένους ἐν τῇ…ἀληθείᾳ1you are strong in the truth

“you strongly believe the truth of these things”

342PE113vmj2figs-metaphorδιεγείρειν ὑμᾶς ἐν ὑπομνήσει1to stir you up by way of reminder

Here the word “stir” means to awaken someone from sleep. Peter speaks of causing his readers to think about these things as if he were waking them from sleep. Alternate translation: “to remind you of these things so that you will think about them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

352PE113ax2afigs-metaphorἐφ’ ὅσον εἰμὶ ἐν τούτῳ τῷ σκηνώματι1as long as I am in this tent

Peter speaks of his body as if it were a tent that he is wearing and will take off. Being in his body represents being alive, and taking it off represents dying. Alternate translation: “as long as I am in this body” or “as long as I am alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

362PE114j8f5figs-metaphorταχινή ἐστιν ἡ ἀπόθεσις τοῦ σκηνώματός μου1the putting off of my tent will be soon

Peter speaks of his body as if it were a tent that he is wearing and will take off. Being in his body represents being alive, and taking it off represents dying. Alternate translation: “I will soon take off this body” or “I will die soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

372PE115c2iwἑκάστοτε, ἔχειν ὑμᾶς…τὴν τούτων μνήμην ποιεῖσθαι1you may be always able to remember these things

Here the words “these things” refers to everything that Peter has said in the previous verses.

382PE115alg8figs-metaphorμετὰ τὴν ἐμὴν ἔξοδον1after my departure

Peter speaks of his death as if he were leaving one place to go to another. Alternate translation: “after my death” or “after I die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

392PE116k3rm0Connecting Statement:

Peter continues to explain his teachings to the believers and explains why they are trustworthy.

402PE116vc99figs-exclusiveοὐ γὰρ σεσοφισμένοις μύθοις ἐξακολουθήσαντες1For we did not follow cleverly invented myths

Here the word “we” refers to Peter and the other apostles, but not to his readers. Alternate translation: “For we apostles did not follow cleverly made-up stories” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

412PE116jwy8figs-hendiadysτὴν…δύναμιν καὶ παρουσίαν1the power and the coming

These two phrases may refer to the same thing and be translated as a single phrase. Alternate translation: “the powerful coming” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])

422PE116zs6vτοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ…παρουσίαν1the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ

Possible meanings are (1) the future second coming of the Lord Jesus or (2) the first coming of the Lord Jesus.

432PE116v4kdfigs-inclusiveτοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1our Lord Jesus Christ

Here the word “our” refers to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])

442PE117m33hfigs-activepassiveφωνῆς ἐνεχθείσης αὐτῷ…ὑπὸ τῆς Μεγαλοπρεποῦς Δόξης1when a voice was brought to him by the Majestic Glory

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when he heard a voice come from the Majestic Glory” or “when he heard the voice of the Majestic Glory speak to him” or “when the Majestic Glory spoke to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

452PE117yd8gfigs-metonymyτῆς Μεγαλοπρεποῦς Δόξης1the Majestic Glory saying

Peter refers to God in terms of his glory. This is a euphemism that avoids using Gods name, out of reverence for him. Alternate translation: “God, the Supreme Glory, saying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

462PE118ezn2figs-exclusiveταύτην τὴν φωνὴν ἡμεῖς ἠκούσαμεν ἐξ οὐρανοῦ, ἐνεχθεῖσαν1We ourselves heard this voice brought from heaven

With the word “We,” Peter is referring to himself and to the disciples James and John, who heard the voice of God. Alternate translation: “We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

472PE118chy4ταύτην τὴν φωνὴν…ἠκούσαμεν ἐξ οὐρανοῦ, ἐνεχθεῖσαν1heard this voice brought from heaven

“heard the voice of the one who spoke from heaven”

482PE118mlm9σὺν αὐτῷ, ὄντες1we were with him

“we were with Jesus”

492PE119km3l0General Information:

Peter begins to warn the believers about false teachers.

502PE119h498figs-explicitκαὶ ἔχομεν βεβαιότερον τὸν προφητικὸν λόγον1For we have this prophetic word made more sure

The things that Peter and the other apostles saw, which he described in the previous verses, confirm what the prophets spoke. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “For the things that we saw make this prophetic message more sure” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

512PE119z3nafigs-inclusiveκαὶ ἔχομεν1For we have

Here the word “we” refers to all believers, including Peter and his readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])

522PE119l7zqfigs-explicitβεβαιότερον τὸν προφητικὸν λόγον1this prophetic word made

This refers to the Old Testament. Alternate translation: “the scriptures, which the prophets spoke, made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

532PE119sjd3ᾧ καλῶς ποιεῖτε προσέχοντες1you do well to pay attention to it

Peter instructs the believers to pay close attention to the prophetic message.

542PE119xt8ifigs-simileὡς λύχνῳ φαίνοντι ἐν αὐχμηρῷ τόπῳ, ἕως οὗ ἡμέρα διαυγάσῃ1as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns

Peter compares the prophetic word to a lamp that gives light in the dark until light comes in the morning. The coming of morning is a reference to Christs coming. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

552PE119kc3lfigs-metaphorφωσφόρος ἀνατείλῃ ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν1the morning star rises in your hearts

Peter speaks of Christ as the “morning star,” which indicates that daybreak and the end of darkness is near. Christ will bring light into the hearts of believers, ending all doubt and bringing full understanding of who he is. Here “hearts” is a metonym for peoples minds. Alternate translation: “Christ shines his light into your hearts like the morning star shines its light into the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

562PE119bl8sφωσφόρος1the morning star

The “morning star” refers to the planet Venus, which sometimes rises just before the sun and indicates that daybreak is near.

572PE120wcn9τοῦτο πρῶτον γινώσκοντες1Above all, you must understand

“Most importantly, you must understand”

582PE120s4k2προφητεία…ἰδίας ἐπιλύσεως οὐ γίνεται1no prophecy comes from someones own interpretation

Possible meanings are (1) the prophets did not make their prophecies on their own or (2) people must rely on the Holy Spirit to understand the prophecies or (3) people must interpret the prophecies with the help of the entire Christian community of believers.

592PE121mh2sfigs-metaphorὑπὸ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου φερόμενοι, ἐλάλησαν ἀπὸ Θεοῦ ἄνθρωποι1men spoke from God when they were carried along by the Holy Spirit

Peter speaks of the Holy Spirit helping the prophets to write what God wanted them to write as if the Holy Spirit was carrying them from one place to another. Alternate translation: “men spoke from God as the Holy Spirit directed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

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2 Peter 02 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Flesh

“Flesh” is a metaphor for a persons sinful nature. It is not the physical part of man that is sinful. “Flesh” represents the human nature that rejects all things godly and desires what is sinful. This is the condition of all humans before they receive the Holy Spirit by believing in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]])

Implicit information

There are several analogies in 2:4-8 that are difficult to understand if the Old Testament has not yet been translated. Further explanation may be necessary. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

612PE21us8u0General Information:

Peter begins to warn the believers about false teachers.

622PE21l2cgἐγένοντο…ψευδοπροφῆται ἐν τῷ λαῷ…καὶ ἐν ὑμῖν ἔσονται ψευδοδιδάσκαλοι1False prophets came to the people, and false teachers will also come to you

Just as false prophets came deceiving Israel with their words, so will false teachers come teaching lies about Christ.

632PE21tbz8αἱρέσεις ἀπωλείας1destructive heresies

The word “heresies” refers to opinions that are contrary to the teaching of Christ and the apostles. These heresies destroy the faith of those who believe them.

642PE21g99zfigs-metaphorτὸν ἀγοράσαντα αὐτοὺς Δεσπότην1the master who bought them

The word “master” here refers to a person who owns slaves. Peter speaks of Jesus as the owner of people whom he has bought, the price being his death. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

652PE22z53eταῖς ἀσελγείαις1sensuality

immoral sexual behavior

662PE22nzx7figs-activepassiveἡ ὁδὸς τῆς ἀληθείας βλασφημηθήσεται1the way of truth will be blasphemed

The phrase “way of truth” refers to the Christian faith as the true path to God. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “unbelievers will blaspheme the way of truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

672PE23dl1kπλαστοῖς λόγοις ὑμᾶς ἐμπορεύσονται1exploit you with deceptive words

“convince you to give them money by telling you lies”

682PE23k359figs-personificationοἷς τὸ κρίμα…οὐκ ἀργεῖ, καὶ ἡ ἀπώλεια αὐτῶν οὐ νυστάζει1their condemnation has not been idle, and their destruction is not asleep

Peter speaks of “condemnation” and “destruction” as if they are persons who act. The two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize how soon the false teachers will be condemned. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

692PE23c57ufigs-doublenegativesοἷς τὸ κρίμα…οὐκ ἀργεῖ, καὶ ἡ ἀπώλεια αὐτῶν οὐ νυστάζει1their condemnation has not been idle, and their destruction is not asleep

You can translate these phrases with verbs in positive terms. Alternate translation: “God will soon condemn them; he is ready to destroy them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

702PE24s1150Connecting Statement:

Peter gives examples of people who acted against God and whom God punished because of what they did.

712PE24pr13οὐκ ἐφείσατο1did not spare

“did not refrain from punishing” or “punished”

722PE24b54vtranslate-namesταρταρώσας1he handed them down to Tartarus

The word “Tartarus” is a term from Greek religion that refers to the place where evil spirits and wicked men who have died are punished. Alternate translation: “he cast them into hell” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

732PE24h7ujfigs-activepassiveσειροῖς ζόφου…τηρουμένους1to be kept in chains of lower darkness

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “where he will keep them in chains of lower darkness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

742PE24uzy2figs-metaphorσειροῖς ζόφου1in chains of lower darkness

Possible meanings are (1) “in chains in a very dark place” or (2) “in very deep darkness that imprisons them like chains.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

752PE24c2akεἰς κρίσιν1until the judgment

This refers to the day of judgment when God will judge every person.

762PE25hpv7figs-metonymyἀρχαίου κόσμου οὐκ ἐφείσατο1he did not spare the ancient world

Here the word “world” refers to the people who lived in it. Alternate translation: “he did not spare the people who lived in the ancient world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

772PE25iw5vὄγδοον, Νῶε…ἐφύλαξεν1he preserved Noah…along with seven others

God did not destroy Noah and seven other people when he destroyed the rest of the people who lived in the ancient world.

782PE26gp3eπόλεις Σοδόμων καὶ Γομόρρας τεφρώσας1reduced the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes

“burned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah with fire until only ashes remained”

792PE26reg3καταστροφῇ κατέκρινεν1condemned them to destruction

Here the word “them” refers to Sodom and Gomorrah and the people who lived in them.

802PE26hgt7ὑπόδειγμα μελλόντων ἀσεβέσιν1as an example of what is to happen to the ungodly

Sodom and Gomorrah serve as an example and a warning of what will happen to others who disobey God.

812PE27fm1p0Connecting Statement:

Peter gives an example of Lot, whom God rescued out from among men who deserved punishment.

822PE27k79dτῆς τῶν ἀθέσμων ἐν ἀσελγείᾳ ἀναστροφῆς1the sensual behavior of lawless people

“the immoral behavior of people who broke Gods law”

832PE28b1baὁ δίκαιος1that righteous man

This refers to Lot.

842PE28hpi4figs-synecdocheψυχὴν δικαίαν…ἐβασάνιζεν1was tormented in his righteous soul

Here the word “soul” refers to Lots thoughts and emotions. The immoral behavior of the citizens of Sodom and Gomorrah disturbed him emotionally. Alternate translation: “was greatly disturbed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

852PE210skh80Connecting Statement:

Peter begins describing the characteristics of unrighteous men.

862PE210c9e5μάλιστα1This is especially true

The word “this” refers to God keeping unrighteous men in prison until judgment day in 2 Peter 2:9.

872PE210eb1kτοὺς…σαρκὸς ἐν ἐπιθυμίᾳ μιασμοῦ πορευομένους1those who continue in the corrupt desires of the flesh

Here the phrase “desires of the flesh” refers to the desires of the sinful nature. Alternate translation: “those who continue to indulge their corrupt, sinful desires”

882PE210axr4κυριότητος καταφρονοῦντας1despise authority

“refuse to submit to Gods authority.” Here the word “authority” probably refers to Gods authority.

892PE210n7n8figs-metonymyκυριότητος1authority

Here “authority” stands for God, who has the right to give commands and to punish disobedience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

902PE210esb2αὐθάδεις1self-willed

“do whatever they want to do”

912PE210s7l1δόξας1the glorious ones

This phrase refers to spiritual beings, such as angels or demons.

922PE211u2jkἰσχύϊ καὶ δυνάμει μείζονες1greater strength and power

“more strength and power than the false teachers”

932PE211v1qtοὐ φέρουσιν κατ’ αὐτῶν…βλάσφημον κρίσιν1they do not bring insulting judgments against them

The word “they” refers to angels. Possible meanings for the word “them” are (1) the glorious ones or (2) the false teachers.

942PE211zi6pfigs-metaphorφέρουσιν κατ’ αὐτῶν…βλάσφημον κρίσιν1bring insulting judgments against them

The idea that angels could accuse them is spoken of as if they could attack them using accusations as weapons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

952PE212y4blfigs-metaphorοὗτοι…ὡς ἄλογα ζῷα, γεγεννημένα φυσικὰ εἰς ἅλωσιν καὶ φθοράν1these unreasoning animals are naturally made for capture and destruction.

Just as animals cannot reason, these men cannot be reasoned with. Alternate translation: “these false teachers are like unreasoning animals who are made to be captured and destroyed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

962PE212ipd4ἐν οἷς ἀγνοοῦσιν βλασφημοῦντες1They do not know what they insult

They speak evil of what they do not know or understand.

972PE212jw8dfigs-activepassiveφθαρήσονται1They will be destroyed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will destroy them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

982PE213p7g7figs-ironyἀδικούμενοι μισθὸν ἀδικίας1They will receive the reward of their wrongdoing

Peter speaks of the punishment that the false teachers will receive as if it were a reward. Alternate translation: “They will receive what they deserve for their wrongdoing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

992PE213e62sτὴν ἐν ἡμέρᾳ τρυφήν1luxury during the day

Here the word “luxury” refers to immoral activity that includes gluttony, drunkenness, and sexual activity. Doing these things during the day indicates that these people are not ashamed of this behavior.

1002PE213u1rcfigs-metaphorσπίλοι καὶ μῶμοι1They are stains and blemishes

The words “stains” and “blemishes” share similar meanings. Peter speaks of the false teachers as if they were stains on a garment that cause shame for those who wear it. Alternate translation: “They are like stains and blemishes on clothes, which cause disgrace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1012PE214v7t4figs-metonymyὀφθαλμοὺς ἔχοντες μεστοὺς μοιχαλίδος1They have eyes full of adultery

Here the “eyes” represent their desires and “eyes full” means they constant want something. Alternate translation: “They constantly want to commit adultery” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1022PE214a22rἀκαταπαύστους ἁμαρτίας1they are never satisfied with sin

Although they sin in order to satisfy their lusts, the sin that they commit never satisfies.

1032PE214wt89figs-synecdocheδελεάζοντες ψυχὰς ἀστηρίκτους1They entice unstable souls

Here the word “souls” refers to persons. Alternate translation: “They entice unstable people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1042PE214c55ufigs-metonymyκαρδίαν γεγυμνασμένην πλεονεξίας1hearts trained in covetousness

Here the word “hearts” refers to the thoughts and emotions of the person. Because of their habitual actions, they have trained themselves to think and act out of covetousness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1052PE215et62καταλειπόντες εὐθεῖαν ὁδὸν, ἐπλανήθησαν ἐξακολουθήσαντες1They have abandoned the right way and have wandered off to follow

“These false teachers have abandoned the right way and have gone astray to follow.” The false teachers have refused to be obedient to God because they have rejected what is right.

1062PE215ky5qfigs-metaphorεὐθεῖαν ὁδὸν1the right way

Right behavior that honors God is spoken of as if it were a path to follow. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1072PE216z37wfigs-abstractnounsἔλεγξιν…ἔσχεν1he obtained a rebuke

You can specify it was God who rebuked Balaam. Alternate translation: “God rebuked him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1082PE216g9drὑποζύγιον ἄφωνον ἐν ἀνθρώπου φωνῇ φθεγξάμενον1a mute donkey speaking in a human voice

A donkey, which is naturally unable to speak, spoke with a voice like a human.

1092PE216tf38figs-metonymyἐκώλυσεν τὴν τοῦ προφήτου παραφρονίαν1stopped the prophets insanity

God used a donkey to stop the prophets foolish action. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1102PE217t137figs-metaphorοὗτοί εἰσιν πηγαὶ ἄνυδροι1These men are springs without water

Springs flowing with water promise refreshment for thirsty people, but “springs without water” will leave the thirsty disappointed. In the same way, false teachers, although they promise many things, are unable to do what they promise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1112PE217hzu1figs-metaphorὁμίχλαι ὑπὸ λαίλαπος ἐλαυνόμεναι1mists driven by a storm

When people see storm clouds, they expect rain to fall. When the winds from the storm blow the clouds away before the rain can fall, the people are disappointed. In the same way, false teachers, although they promise many things, are unable to do what they promise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1122PE217xe3yfigs-activepassiveοἷς ὁ ζόφος τοῦ σκότους τετήρηται1The gloom of thick darkness is reserved for them

The word “them” refers to the false teachers. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has reserved the gloom of thick darkness for them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1132PE218cxt8ὑπέρογκα…ματαιότητος φθεγγόμενοι1They speak with vain arrogance

They use impressive but meaningless words.

1142PE218f8tgδελεάζουσιν ἐν ἐπιθυμίαις σαρκὸς ἀσελγείαις1They entice people through the lusts of the flesh

They appeal to the sinful nature to engage people in immoral and sinful actions.

1152PE218nks3figs-explicitτοὺς ὀλίγως ἀποφεύγοντας τοὺς ἐν πλάνῃ ἀναστρεφομένους1people who try to escape from those who live in error

This phrase refers to people who recently became believers. The phrase “those who live in error” refers to unbelievers who still live in sin. Alternate translation: “people who try to live rightly, instead of living sinfully as they used to and as other people do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1162PE218jec8figs-metaphorτοὺς ὀλίγως ἀποφεύγοντας1people who try to escape

Peter speaks of people who live sinfully as if they are slaves to sin who need to be released from their captivity. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1172PE219uyw6figs-metaphorἐλευθερίαν αὐτοῖς ἐπαγγελλόμενοι, αὐτοὶ δοῦλοι ὑπάρχοντες τῆς φθορᾶς1They promise freedom to them, but they themselves are slaves of corruption

“Freedom” here is an idiom for the ability to live exactly as one wants. Alternate translation: “They promise to give them the ability to live exactly as they want to live, but they themselves cannot escape their own sinful desires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1182PE219v5ttfigs-metaphorἐλευθερίαν…ἐπαγγελλόμενοι…δοῦλοι…τῆς φθορᾶς1promise freedom…slaves of corruption

Peter speaks of people who live sinfully as if they are slaves to sin who need to be released from their captivity. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1192PE219b79vfigs-metaphorᾧ γάρ τις ἥττηται, τούτῳ δεδούλωται1For a man is a slave to whatever overcomes him

Peter speaks of a person as a slave when anything has control over that person, and that thing as the master of that person. Alternate translation: “For if something has control over a person, that person becomes like a slave to that thing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1202PE220d6ra0Connecting Statement:

The words “they” and “them” refer to the false teachers Peter speaks of in verses 12-19.

1212PE220q96iεἰ…ἀποφυγόντες…δὲ πάλιν ἐμπλακέντες ἡττῶνται, γέγονεν…τὰ ἔσχατα χείρονα τῶν πρώτων1If they have escaped…and are again entangled…and overcome, the last state has become worse…than the first

This sentence is a description of a conditional statement that is true. The false teachers had at one time “escaped,” but if they are again entangled…and overcome,” then “the last state has become worse…than the first.”

1222PE220lu22figs-metonymyτὰ μιάσματα τοῦ κόσμου1the corruption of the world

The word “defilements” refers to sinful behavior that makes one morally impure. The “world” refers to human society. Alternate translation: “the defiling practices of sinful human society” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1232PE220bi73figs-abstractnounsἐν ἐπιγνώσει τοῦ Κυρίου…καὶ Σωτῆρος, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

You can translate “knowledge” using a verbal phrase. See how you translated similar phrases in 2 Peter 1:2. Alternate translation: “by knowing the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1242PE220d42gγέγονεν αὐτοῖς τὰ ἔσχατα χείρονα τῶν πρώτων1the last state has become worse for them than the first

“their condition is worse than it was before”

1252PE221pm7bfigs-metaphorτὴν ὁδὸν τῆς δικαιοσύνης1the way of righteousness

Peter speaks of life as a “way” or path. This phrase refers to living a life that is according to Gods will. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1262PE221ic3cfigs-metaphorὑποστρέψαι ἐκ τῆς…ἁγίας ἐντολῆς1turn away from the holy commandment

Here “turn away from” is a metaphor that means to stop doing something. Alternate translation: “stop obeying the holy commandment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1272PE221blr5figs-activepassiveτῆς παραδοθείσης αὐτοῖς ἁγίας ἐντολῆς1the holy commandment delivered to them

This can be stated in active terms. Alternate translation: “the holy commandment that God delivered to them” or “the holy commandment that God made sure that they received” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1282PE222hqr3συμβέβηκεν αὐτοῖς τὸ τῆς ἀληθοῦς παροιμίας1This proverb is true for them

“This proverb applies to them” or “This proverb describes them”

1292PE222h42rwriting-proverbsκύων ἐπιστρέψας ἐπὶ τὸ ἴδιον ἐξέραμα, καί, ὗς λουσαμένη, εἰς κυλισμὸν βορβόρου1A dog returns to its own vomit, and a washed pig returns to the mud

Peter uses two proverbs to illustrate how the false teachers, although they have known “the way of righteousness,” have turned back to the things that make them morally and spiritually impure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs]])

1302PE3introc1id0

2 Peter 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Fire

People often use fire to destroy things or to make something pure by burning off the dirt and worthless parts. Therefore when God punishes the wicked or purifies his people, it is often associated with fire. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fire]])

Day of the Lord

The exact time of the coming day of the Lord will come as a surprise to people. This is what the simile “like a thief in the night” means. Because of this, Christians are to be prepared for the coming of the Lord. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1312PE31n92f0General Information:

Peter begins to talk about the last days.

1322PE31gc3mfigs-metaphorδιεγείρω ὑμῶν…τὴν εἰλικρινῆ διάνοιαν1to stir up your sincere mind

Peter speaks of causing his readers to think about these things as if he were waking them from sleep. Alternate translation: “to cause you to think pure thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1332PE32gxj7figs-activepassiveτῶν προειρημένων ῥημάτων, ὑπὸ τῶν ἁγίων προφητῶν1the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the words that the holy prophets spoke in the past” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1342PE32yhi7figs-activepassiveτῆς τῶν ἀποστόλων ὑμῶν ἐντολῆς τοῦ Κυρίου καὶ Σωτῆρος1the command of our Lord and Savior given through your apostles

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the command of our Lord and Savior, which your apostles gave to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1352PE33lm1aτοῦτο πρῶτον γινώσκοντες1Know this first

“Know this as the most important thing.” See how you translated this in 2 Peter 1:20.

1362PE33znh2figs-explicitκατὰ τὰς ἰδίας ἐπιθυμίας αὐτῶν πορευόμενοι1proceed according to their own desires

Here the word “desires” refers to sinful desires that are opposed to Gods will. Alternate translation: “live according to their own sinful desires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1372PE33hl23πορευόμενοι1proceed

act, behave

1382PE34zrj7figs-rquestionποῦ ἐστιν ἡ ἐπαγγελία τῆς παρουσίας αὐτοῦ1Where is the promise of his return?

The mockers ask this rhetorical question to emphasize that they do not believe that Jesus will return. The word “promise” refers to the fulfillment of the promise that Jesus will return. Alternate translation: “The promise that Jesus would return is not true! He will not return!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1392PE34t6hlfigs-euphemismοἱ πατέρες ἐκοιμήθησαν1our fathers fell asleep

Here “fathers” refers to ancestors who lived long ago. Falling asleep is a euphemism for dying. Alternate translation: “our ancestors died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1402PE34c2enfigs-hyperboleπάντα οὕτως διαμένει ἀπ’ ἀρχῆς κτίσεως1all things have stayed the same, since the beginning of creation

The mockers exaggerate with the word “all”, and they argue that since nothing in the world has ever changed, it cannot be true that Jesus will return. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1412PE34yue7figs-abstractnounsἀπ’ ἀρχῆς κτίσεως1since the beginning of creation

This can be translated as a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “since God created the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1422PE35mku9figs-activepassiveοὐρανοὶ ἦσαν ἔκπαλαι, καὶ γῆ…συνεστῶσα τῷ τοῦ Θεοῦ λόγῳ1the heavens and the earth came to exist…long ago, by Gods command

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God established the heavens and the earth…long ago by his word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1432PE35s77fἐξ ὕδατος καὶ δι’ ὕδατος συνεστῶσα1came to exist out of water and through water

This means that God caused the land to come up out of the water, gathering the bodies of water together to make the land appear.

1442PE36jh4rδι’ ὧν1through these things

Here “these things” refers to Gods word and water.

1452PE36nyb7figs-activepassiveὁ τότε κόσμος ὕδατι κατακλυσθεὶς ἀπώλετο1the world of that time was destroyed, being flooded with water

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God flooded the world that existed at that time with water and destroyed it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1462PE37b2infigs-activepassiveοἱ…οὐρανοὶ καὶ ἡ γῆ, τῷ αὐτῷ λόγῳ τεθησαυρισμένοι εἰσὶν, πυρὶ1the heavens and the earth are reserved for fire by that same command

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God, by that same word, has reserved the heavens and the earth for fire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1472PE37e673τῷ αὐτῷ λόγῳ1that same command

Here “command” stands for God, who will give the command: AT “God, who will give a similar command”

1482PE37jl5dfigs-activepassiveτηρούμενοι εἰς ἡμέραν κρίσεως1They are reserved for the day of judgment

This can be stated in active form and can begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “He is reserving them for the day of judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1492PE37y3ggfigs-abstractnounsεἰς ἡμέραν κρίσεως καὶ ἀπωλείας τῶν ἀσεβῶν ἀνθρώπων1for the day of judgment and the destruction of the ungodly people

This can be stated with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “for the day when he judges and destroys ungodly people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1502PE38s5cyμὴ λανθανέτω ὑμᾶς1It should not escape your notice

“You should not fail to understand this” or “Do not ignore this”

1512PE38enh9ὅτι μία ἡμέρα παρὰ Κυρίῳ ὡς χίλια ἔτη1that one day with the Lord is like a thousand years

“that from the Lords point of view, one day is like a thousand years”

1522PE39zv9mοὐ βραδύνει Κύριος τῆς ἐπαγγελίας1The Lord does not move slowly concerning his promises

“The Lord does not move slowly to fulfill his promises”

1532PE39dzq8ὥς τινες βραδύτητα ἡγοῦνται1as some consider slowness to be

Some people think that the Lord is slow to fulfill his promises because their perspective of time is different than Gods.

1542PE310w6maδὲ1However

Although the Lord is being patient and wants people to repent, he will indeed return and bring judgment.

1552PE310c5m1figs-personificationἥξει…ἡμέρα Κυρίου ὡς κλέπτης1the day of the Lord will come as a thief

Peter speaks of the day when God will judge everyone as if it were a thief who will unexpectedly and take people by surprise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

1562PE310k31zοἱ οὐρανοὶ…παρελεύσονται1The heavens will pass away

“The heavens will disappear”

1572PE310z32kfigs-activepassiveστοιχεῖα…καυσούμενα λυθήσεται1The elements will be burned with fire

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will burn the elements with fire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1582PE310zgd3στοιχεῖα1The elements

Possible meanings are (1) the heavenly bodies, such as the sun, moon, and stars or (2) the things that make up heaven and earth, such as soil, air, fire, and water.

1592PE310j1gjfigs-activepassiveγῆ καὶ τὰ ἐν αὐτῇ ἔργα εὑρεθήσεται1the earth and the deeds in it will be revealed

God will see all the earth and all the deeds of everyone, and he will then judge everything. This can be stated in active terms. Alternate translation: “God will expose the earth and everything that people have done on it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1602PE311buq40Connecting Statement:

Peter begins to tell the believers how they should live as they wait for the day of the Lord.

1612PE311nq63figs-activepassiveτούτων οὕτως πάντων λυομένων1Since all these things will be destroyed in this way

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Since God will destroy all these things in this way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1622PE311t8wxfigs-rquestionποταποὺς δεῖ ὑπάρχειν?1what kind of people should you be?

Peter uses this rhetorical question to emphasize what he will say next, that they “should live holy and godly lives.” Alternate translation: “you know what kind of people you should be.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1632PE312rq9gfigs-activepassiveοὐρανοὶ πυρούμενοι, λυθήσονται, καὶ στοιχεῖα καυσούμενα, τήκεται1the heavens will be destroyed by fire, and the elements will be melted in great heat

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will destroy the heavens by fire, and he will melt the elements in great heat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1642PE312v15iστοιχεῖα1the elements

Possible meanings are (1) the heavenly bodies, such as the sun, moon, and stars or (2) the things that make up heaven and earth, such as soil, air, fire, and water. See how you translated this in 2 Peter 3:10.

1652PE313df3vfigs-personificationἐν οἷς δικαιοσύνη κατοικεῖ1where righteousness will dwell

Peter speaks of “righteousness” as if it were a person. This is a metonym for people who are righteous. Alternate translation: “where righteous people will dwell” or “where people will live righteously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1662PE314fj1lfigs-activepassiveσπουδάσατε ἄσπιλοι καὶ ἀμώμητοι αὐτῷ εὑρεθῆναι ἐν εἰρήνῃ1do your best to be found spotless and blameless before him, in peace

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “do your best to live in a way so that God will find you spotless and blameless, and be at peace with him and each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1672PE314s141figs-doubletἄσπιλοι καὶ ἀμώμητοι1spotless and blameless

The words “spotless” and “blameless” mean basically the same thing and emphasize moral purity. Alternate translation: “completely pure” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1682PE314byr8figs-metaphorἄσπιλοι1spotless

Here this stands for “faultless.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1692PE315g35ufigs-explicitτὴν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν μακροθυμίαν, σωτηρίαν ἡγεῖσθε1consider the patience of our Lord to be salvation

Because the Lord is patient, the day of judgment has not yet happened. This gives people an opportunity to repent and be saved, as he explained in 2 Peter 3:9. Alternate translation: “Also, think about the patience of our Lord as giving you an opportunity to repent and be saved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1702PE315nnd7figs-activepassiveκατὰ τὴν δοθεῖσαν αὐτῷ σοφίαν1according to the wisdom that was given to him

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “according to the wisdom that God gave to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1712PE316wil1ἐν πάσαις ταῖς ἐπιστολαῖς, λαλῶν…περὶ τούτων1Paul speaks of these things in all his letters

“Paul speaks of the patience of God leading to salvation in all his letters”

1722PE316z4cjἐν αἷς ἐστιν δυσνόητά τινα1in which there are things that are difficult to understand

There are things in Pauls letters that are difficult to understand.

1732PE316dt6rἃ οἱ ἀμαθεῖς καὶ ἀστήρικτοι στρεβλοῦσιν1Ignorant and unstable men distort these things

Ignorant and unstable men misinterpret the things that are difficult to understand in Pauls letters.

1742PE316giz1οἱ ἀμαθεῖς καὶ ἀστήρικτοι1Ignorant and unstable

“Unlearned and unsteady.” These men have not been taught how to properly interpret scripture and are not well established in the truth of the gospel.

1752PE316sh4jπρὸς τὴν ἰδίαν αὐτῶν ἀπώλειαν1to their own destruction

“resulting in their own destruction”

1762PE317kn3d0Connecting Statement:

Peter finishes instructing the believers and ends his letter.

1772PE317t1gdὑμεῖς…προγινώσκοντες1since you know about these things

“These things” refers to the truths about the patience of God and the teachings of these false teachers.

1782PE317z54qφυλάσσεσθε1guard yourselves

“protect yourselves”

1792PE317h2ikfigs-metaphorἵνα μὴ τῇ τῶν ἀθέσμων πλάνῃ συναπαχθέντες1so that you are not led astray by the deceit of lawless people

Here “led astray” is a metaphor for being persuaded to do something wrong. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that lawless people do not deceive you and cause you do something wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1802PE317w3spfigs-metaphorἐκπέσητε τοῦ ἰδίου στηριγμοῦ1you lose your own faithfulness

Faithfulness is spoken of as if it were a possession that believers could lose. Alternate translation: “you stop being faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1812PE318lk3cfigs-metaphorαὐξάνετε…ἐν χάριτι, καὶ γνώσει τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν καὶ Σωτῆρος, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

Here growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord represents experiencing his grace more and knowing him more. The abstract noun “grace” can be expressed with the phrase “act kindly.” Alternate translation: “receive more of the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and know him more” or “be more aware of how our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ acts kindly toward you, and know him better” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])