S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Author: 2 Peter 1:1 specifically states that the apostle Peter was the author of 2 Peter. Peter's authorship of 2 Peter has been challenged more than that of any other book in the New Testament. Ho...

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November 15 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

What is the book of 2 Peter?

Writer: Peter
Place Written: Babylon (?)
Writing Completed: c. 64 C.E.

When was Peter's second letter written? It is most probable that it was written about 64 C.E. from Babylon or its vicinity, shortly after the first letter. Still, there is no direct evidence, particularly as to the place. At the time of writing, most of Paul's letters were circulating among the congregations and were known to Peter, who regarded them as inspired by God and classed them with "the rest of the Scriptures." Peter's second letter is addressed "to those who have obtained a faith, held in equal privilege with ours," and it includes those to whom the first letter was addressed and others to whom Peter had preached. Just as the first letter had circulated widely, so too did the second letter take on a general character.​—2 Pet. 3:15, 16; 1:1; 3:1; 1 Pet. 1:1.

We benefit greatly by considering all these inspired Scriptures and by holding fast to accurate knowledge. Then we will never become complacent, like those whom Peter describes as saying: "All things are continuing exactly as from creation's beginning." (3:4) Nor will we fall into the traps of the false teachers like those Peter describes in chapter 2 of his letter. Rather, we should continually consider the reminders from Peter and the other Bible writers. These help us to remain "firmly set in the truth" and patiently and steadfastly "go on growing in the undeserved kindness and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."​—1:12; 3:18.

Peter calls attention to the magnificence of Jesus' Kingdom glory, of which he had been an eyewitness through the transfiguration vision, and adds: "Consequently, we have the prophetic word made more sure." True, every prophecy concerning the magnificent Kingdom of Jehovah will come to certain fulfilment. Thus, it is with confidence that we echo Peter's words quoted from Isaiah's prophecy: "There are new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according to his promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell."​—2 Pet. 1:4, 10, 11, 19; 3:13; Isa. 65:17, 18.

Conclusion:

The book of 2 Peter is a New Testament letter traditionally attributed to the Apostle Peter. However, many scholars consider it falsely attributed, referring to a text or work that is not written by the author it claims to be. It warns early Christians against false teachers and emphasises the importance of growing in faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ. The letter reassures believers of Christ's inevitable return and encourages them to live holy lives in anticipation of the final judgment. 

1: The primary purpose is to combat false teachings and moral corruption within the early Christian community and to encourage steadfastness in faith.

2: The letter is addressed to a broad group of believers, likely in Asia Minor, who were facing both external persecution and internal spiritual threats.

3: The letter emphasises the truth and authority of the apostles' message, including eyewitness accounts of events like the Transfiguration, and states that all Scripture is divinely inspired.

4: Chapter 2 strongly condemns false teachers who are immoral, greedy, and promote sinful behaviour, assuring readers that God will judge the wicked using Old Testament examples.

5: Peter addresses those who doubt Christ's return, explaining that God's patience allows time for repentance before the unexpected "Day of the Lord," which will bring judgment and a new creation.

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