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Introduction to 2 Peter
Part 1: General Introduction
Outline of the Book of 2 Peter
- Introduction (1:1-2)
- Reminder to live good lives because God has enabled us to (1:3-21)
- Warning against false teachers (2:1-22)
- Encouragement to prepare for the second coming of Jesus (3:1-17)
What is the Book of 2 Peter about?
Peter wrote this letter in order to encourage believers to live good lives and to warn them not to follow false teachers. He told them to ignore people who were saying that Jesus was taking too long to return. Instead, he pointed out that God is not slow but wants everyone to 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)
Who wrote the Book of 2 Peter?
The letter of 2 Peter states that it was written by the Apostle Peter. Peter probably wrote the letter near the end of his life. He was probably in prison in Rome and facing imminent death. Peter calls this letter his second letter, so we can date it after 1 Peter. He addresses the letter to all Christians.
Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts
Why were false teachers a problem in the early church?
False teachers were a problem for the early church for two reasons. First, the New Testament was not yet complete, and the Christians probably had poor access to what New Testament writings did exist. Because of this, it was easy for false teachers to lead believers astray. Second, there was very little knowledge of true Christian teachings in the world. This lack of knowledge was certainly an advantage for false teachers.
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 has his own distinct way of writing, God is the true author of Scripture.
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 the believers who may read this letter. (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?
The following are the most significant textual issues in the Book of 2 Peter:
- "to be kept in chains in deep darkness until the judgment." (2:4) The ULB, UDB, and many versions have this reading. Other versions have, "to be kept in pits of lower darkness until the judgment." If other versions exist in the translators' region, they might consider following those versions' reading in this passage.
- "They enjoy their deceitful actions while they are feasting with you." (2:13) The ULB, UDB, and many versions have this reading. Other versions have, "They enjoy their actions while they are feasting with you in love feasts."
- "Beor" (2:15). The ULB, UDB, and many other modern versions have this reading. Some other versions have the reading, "Bosor."
- "The elements will be burned with fire, and the earth and the deeds in it will be revealed." (3:10) The ULB, UDB, and many versions have this reading. Other versions have, "The elements will be burned with fire, and the earth and the deeds in it will be burned up." If other versions exist in the translators' region, they might consider following those versions' readings in this passage.