Consequences of false doctrine
The author sees the faith of his “flock” as still being highly vulnerable. This concern invigorates his compassion for their welfare and his hostile characterization of and opposition to the false teachers (vv. 3-4, 10, 23).
Implications of the ParousiaThe parousia refers to the second coming of Christ in glory and triumph. This apocalyptic event fulfills various end-of-time prophecies such as the resurrection of the dead and the establishment of the kingdom of God on earth. More for doctrine and life
There is already a strong note of urgency in the cautions and warnings the writer issues, but these are made far more intense by the sense that the people involved are living within a short time frame as they await God’s judgment. So the letter is best understood as offering counsel for the near term rather than for the long term (vv. 16, 18-19).
JesusJesus is the Messiah whose life, death, and resurrection are God’s saving act for humanity More as Savior and Judge
The author conveys just as strong a sense of the mercyMercy is a term used to describe leniency or compassion. God’s mercy is frequently referred to or invoked in both the Old and New Testaments. More and graceGrace is the unmerited gift of God’s love and acceptance. In Martin Luther’s favorite expression from the Apostle Paul, we are saved by grace through faith, which means that God showers grace upon us even though we do not deserve it. More at work in salvationSalvation can mean saved from something (deliverance) or for something (redemption). Paul preached that salvation comes through the death of Christ on the cross which redeemed sinners from death and for a grace-filled life. More as he does of the immanence and fearfulness of the coming judgment (vv. 7, 22, 24-25).
