2 Peter 2:13

The harm they will suffer is the wages of their wickedness. They consider it a pleasure to carouse in broad daylight. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their deception as they feast with you.

Study Bible

The harm they will suffer
This phrase indicates a direct consequence of the actions of the false teachers Peter is addressing. The Greek word for "harm" (ἀδικία, adikia) can also be translated as "injustice" or "wrongdoing," suggesting that the suffering they endure is a direct result of their own moral failings. This reflects a biblical principle found throughout Scripture: that sin carries its own inherent consequences (Galatians 6:7-8).

is the wages of their wickedness
The term "wages" (μισθός, misthos) implies a payment or recompense, often used in the context of earning something through labor. Here, it underscores the idea that the false teachers are receiving what they have earned through their immoral actions. This echoes Romans 6:23, where Paul states, "For the wages of sin is death," emphasizing the inevitable outcome of living in opposition to God's will.

They consider it a pleasure
The Greek word for "pleasure" (ἡδονή, hēdonē) is the root of the English word "hedonism," which is the pursuit of pleasure as the highest good. This highlights the hedonistic lifestyle of the false teachers, who find joy in their sinful behavior, contrasting sharply with the Christian call to find joy in righteousness and holiness (Philippians 4:8).

to carouse in broad daylight
"Carouse" (τρυφή, truphē) suggests indulgence in luxury and excess, often associated with drunkenness and debauchery. The phrase "in broad daylight" indicates a shamelessness in their actions, as they do not even attempt to hide their sin. This public display of immorality is a stark contrast to the biblical call to live as "children of light" (Ephesians 5:8).

They are blots and blemishes
The imagery of "blots" (σπίλοι, spiloi) and "blemishes" (μῶμοι, mōmoi) conveys the idea of stains or imperfections. In the context of the early church, which sought to be pure and holy, these false teachers are seen as corrupting influences. This language echoes the Old Testament sacrificial system, where offerings were to be without blemish (Leviticus 1:3), symbolizing the purity God desires in His people.

reveling in their deception
"Reveling" (ἐντρυφάω, entryphao) suggests taking delight or indulging in something, while "deception" (ἀπάτη, apate) refers to deceit or falsehood. The false teachers are not only engaging in deception but are taking pleasure in it, highlighting their moral corruption. This is a warning to believers to be vigilant against those who distort the truth for personal gain (2 Timothy 3:13).

as they feast with you
The phrase "feast with you" (συνευωχούμενοι, syneuochoumenoi) implies a shared meal or fellowship, likely referring to the early Christian practice of communal meals or love feasts (Jude 1:12). The presence of these false teachers at such gatherings is particularly insidious, as they are corrupting the fellowship and unity of the church from within. This serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment and the need to guard the purity of the Christian community (1 Corinthians 5:11).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
The apostle and author of this epistle, addressing the early Christian communities and warning them against false teachers.

2. False Teachers
Individuals within the early church who were leading believers astray with deceptive teachings and immoral behavior.

3. Early Christian Communities
The recipients of Peter's letter, who were facing challenges from within due to the influence of false teachers.

4. Feasts
Likely referring to communal meals or love feasts (agape feasts) where believers gathered, and where these false teachers were present.

5. Daylight Carousing
A reference to the shameless and public nature of the false teachers' sinful behavior.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Wickedness
Sin has tangible consequences, both in this life and the next. The "wages" of wickedness are inevitable and serve as a warning to remain vigilant against sin.

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin often masquerades as pleasure and freedom, but it ultimately leads to destruction. Believers must discern and reject deceptive teachings and behaviors.

The Importance of Community Vigilance
The presence of false teachers within the community highlights the need for discernment and accountability among believers. We must protect the integrity of our fellowship.

Living in the Light
As followers of Christ, we are called to live transparently and righteously, in contrast to those who revel in sin. Our lives should reflect the light of Christ.

Guarding Against Spiritual Corruption
Just as a small blemish can mar a feast, unchecked sin can corrupt a community. We must be proactive in addressing sin and maintaining purity in our gatherings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of "wages of wickedness" in 2 Peter 2:13 relate to the broader biblical teaching on sin and its consequences?

2. In what ways can we identify and guard against false teachings within our own communities today?

3. How can we ensure that our communal gatherings reflect the purity and holiness that God desires?

4. What practical steps can we take to live in the light and avoid the deception of sin?

5. How do the warnings in 2 Peter 2:13 challenge us to examine our own lives and the influences we allow into our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jude 1:12-13
Jude also describes false teachers as blemishes at love feasts, using similar imagery to highlight their destructive influence.

Romans 6:23
The concept of "wages of wickedness" is echoed in Paul's teaching that the wages of sin is death, contrasting with the gift of eternal life.

1 Corinthians 5:6-8
Paul warns against the corrupting influence of sin within the community, using the metaphor of leaven.

Ephesians 5:11-12
Paul instructs believers to have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.

Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus warns about false prophets, teaching that they can be recognized by their fruits.