Revised by Matthew L. Skinner, 04/23
1. Greeting and Address (2 PeterPeter (also known as Cephas, Simon Peter) was the disciple who denied Jesus during his trial but later became a leader in proclaiming Jesus. 1:1-2)
The author identifies himself as “Simeon Peter, a servant and apostleDerived from a Greek word meaning “one who is sent,” an apostle is a person who embraces and advocates another person’s idea or beliefs. At the beginning of his ministry Jesus called twelve apostles to follow and serve him. Paul became an apostle of Jesus… of JesusJesus is the Messiah whose life, death, and resurrection are God’s saving act for humanity. Christ” and addresses his audience.
2. Thematic Overview (2 Peter 1:3-11)
Readers are reassured that Jesus Christ has provided the church with all that it needs to thrive and endure in a world that is both corrupt and corrupting. There is a continuous need for vigilance, charity, and fortitude in the approach of the kingdom of GodThe kingdom (reign) of God is a central theme of Jesus’ teaching and parables. According to Jesus this reign of God is a present reality and at the same time is yet to come. When Christians pray the Lord’s Prayer, they ask that God’s kingdom….
3. Situation and Occasion of the Letter (2 Peter 1:12-15)
The recipients are assumed to have heard from the author on a previous occasion; this letter comes as a follow-up, a reminder intended to equip readers further for the travails and challenges of their time.
4. The Letter’s Argument (2 Peter 1:16-3:13)
As an essentially corrective correspondence, the bulk of the letter consists of a series of warnings and responses.
A. The Return of Christ (2 Peter 1:16-18)
Warnings are issued to those who deny Christ’s return.
B. The Scriptures (2 Peter 1:19-21)
Warnings are issued to those who denigrate the authority of the Scriptures.
C. False Teachers (2 Peter 2:1-10a)
Warnings are issued against teachers whose motives and teachings are false and against teachers who flout authority and responsibility.
D. Unrighteousness (2 Peter 2:10b-22)
Those who spread unrighteousness are the targets of a scathing denunciation.
E. The Lord’s Judgment (2 Peter 3:1-13)
Warnings are issued against those who deny that Christ will return as judge.
5. Concluding Exhortations (2 Peter 3:14-18)
The author concludes by exhorting readers to live wisely and purposefully in a time of spiritual peril.
