Main Themes of the Book of 2 Peter

Who wrote the Book of 2 Peter and who did they write it for?

The Apostle Peter (Simon) wrote the epistles of 1 Peter and 2 Peter, both of which were written to the Jewish and Gentile believers scattered by Roman persecution.

When did the events of Book of 2 Peter happen?

2 Peter was likely written between 65-66 AD shortly before Peter’s death, which was very likely during the deadly and devastating persecution by Nero that he had warned about in 1 Peter.

What was the setting of the Book of 2 Peter?

Due to this being written not long before he was martyred, Peter was likely in Rome in the midst of the horrifying persecution of Christians by Nero. Peter wrote this letter knowing his death was not far away, but still encouraged fellow Christians passionately.

What is the purpose of the Book of 2 Peter?

1. Exhortation to Remain Faithful (2 Peter 1)
2. Warning Against False Teachers (2 Peter 2)
3. The Day of the Lord (2 Peter 3)

How does the Book of 2 Peter apply to my life?

• Encourages Christians of all generations to remain firmly rooted in their faith.
• Reminds Christians to remain faithful even in the face of persecution, pain, suffering, and death.
• Gives hope and encouragement to Christians facing persecution and suffering.
• Instructs Christians in how to discern between true and false teachers.
• Warns of false teachers and the danger of their deceptions.
• Instructs Christians in godly living, even when life is filled with suffering.
• Teaches of the imminent return of Christ.
• Reminds Christians that God is a faithful and able promise keeper.

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Summary

2 Peter is a letter filled with passionate emotion. It was written by the Apostle Peter, with the knowledge that he would soon be killed in the midst of the persecution he had warned others about in his first epistle, 1 Peter. Knowing he was going to die soon, he wrote this letter to encourage fellow believers in their faith. This in itself is an incredible example and act of love, that even knowing he would soon be killed for his faith in Jesus he encouraged others to keep on in faith and to persevere.

Having written this in the midst of some of the worst persecution of the early church, this should have a profound impact on believers even still today that a relationship with Jesus is worth every bit of suffering for His sake, even unto the very end. The suffering we face in this life cannot compare to the promises ahead of us, and the joy we have in Jesus even today. What we face today cannot compare to what the people of Peter’s time were facing, and yet Peter speaks clearly to us today as well.

Let 2 Peter be a humbling reminder to remain firm in your faith, trusting in Jesus, believing in the promises of God, and know that through Him you will have the strength needed to endure anything you face in this life. You have a beautiful hope to cling to, and an Almighty God who is able, and never fails to keep His promises.