◄ 2 Peter 1 ►
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A Greeting from Peter (1 Peter 1:1–2) 1Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours: 2Grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. Partakers of the Divine Nature 3His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His owna glory and excellence. 4Through these He has given us His precious and magnificent promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, now that you have escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; 6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8For if you possess these qualities and continue to grow in them, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But whoever lacks these traits is nearsighted to the point of blindness, having forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins. 10Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things you will never stumble, 11and you will receive a lavish reception into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 12Therefore I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are established in the truth you now have. 13I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of my body,b 14because I know that this tent will soon be laid aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. 15And I will make every effort to ensure that after my departure, you will be able to recall these things at all times. Eyewitnesses of His Majesty (Matthew 17:1–13; Mark 9:1–13; Luke 9:28–36) 16For we did not follow cleverly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. 17For He received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to Him from the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”c 18And we ourselves heard this voice from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain. 19We also have the word of the prophets as confirmed beyond doubt. And you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 20Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture comes from one’s own interpretation. 21For no such prophecy was ever brought forth by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. Footnotes: 3 a Or to His own 13 b Literally as long as I am in this tent 17 c Matthew 17:5; see also Mark 9:7 and Luke 9:35. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Peter 1 Summary Eyewitnesses of His Majesty Verses 1–2 – Greeting and Blessing Peter identifies himself as “a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ,” writing to believers who share “a faith as precious as ours.” He prays that grace and peace will overflow “through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.” Verses 3–4 – Divine Power & Precious Promises God’s power has already granted “everything we need for life and godliness.” By His “precious and magnificent promises” we escape the world’s corruption and “become partakers of the divine nature.” Verses 5–7 – The Virtue Ladder Because of these promises, believers are to “make every effort” to build a chain of qualities: faith → virtue → knowledge → self-control → perseverance → godliness → brotherly kindness → love. Verses 8–11 – Fruitful Growth and Secure Entrance If these traits “continue to grow,” Christians will be effective and assured. Neglect makes one “nearsighted to the point of blindness.” Diligence brings a “lavish reception into the eternal kingdom.” Verses 12–15 – Peter’s Lasting Reminder Knowing his earthly “tent” will soon be laid aside, Peter pledges to keep reminding the church so they can recall the truth even after his departure. Verses 16–18 – Eyewitness of Christ’s Majesty The apostles did not follow myths. Peter saw Jesus’ glory on the mountain and heard the Father’s voice: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Verses 19–21 – The Sure Prophetic Word Believers possess the “word of the prophets made more certain,” a lamp until the day dawns. Prophecy never originated by human will; “men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1 stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith in Christ, highlighting the path towards moral excellence and spiritual growth. This chapter not only solidifies the certainty of Christ's return, but also emphasizes the inherent validity of the divine prophecy. Penned by Simon Peter, a disciple of Jesus, it offers a profound exploration of the divine promises, the attributes of a virtuous Christian life, and the role of prophecy in the faith journey. Authorship and Background • The author names himself “Simon Peter,” the fisherman from Galilee (Mark 1:16-18). • Verse 14 echoes Jesus’ prediction of Peter’s death (John 21:18-19), fitting an apostle who knows martyrdom is near. • Early Christian writers like Clement of Rome and Irenaeus cite the letter, linking it to Peter’s final years, likely in Rome. Recipients and Setting • Addressed to believers who have “received a faith as precious as ours.” This language embraces both Jewish and Gentile Christians spread across Asia Minor (cf. 1 Peter 1:1). • The community faces pressure from deceptive teachers (chapter 2) and scoffers (chapter 3). Chapter 1 lays the groundwork by reminding them of true salvation and the reliability of Scripture. Date and Occasion • Probably written AD 64–67, shortly before Peter’s execution under Emperor Nero. • The urgent tone (“I will make every effort,” v. 15) fits a farewell letter meant to anchor the church before new waves of persecution and false teaching. Structure Overview 1. Greeting (1–2) 2. Provision and calling (3–4) 3. The believer’s growth (5–11) 4. Peter’s legacy (12–15) 5. Eyewitness testimony (16–18) 6. Trustworthy prophecy (19–21) Historical Context: Persecution under Nero • In AD 64, a fire devastated Rome. Nero shifted blame onto Christians, leading to brutal executions recorded by Tacitus. • Peter’s awareness of his imminent death (1:14) meshes with this climate. The letter strengthens believers to stand firm amid mounting hostility. Archaeological Glimpses • The Vatican Necropolis under St. Peter’s Basilica contains a first-century grave revered in early tradition as Peter’s. Bone fragments found there correspond to a robust male about Peter’s age. • Catacomb art from the late first and early second centuries depicts scenes from the Transfiguration, underscoring the event Peter highlights (1:16-18). • Graffiti such as “Peter pray for us” appears in underground burial chambers, showing the apostle’s enduring influence. Major Themes • Sufficiency of God’s provision (v. 3) • The call to diligent growth (vv. 5-7) • Remembering foundational truth (v. 12) • Eyewitness credibility (vv. 16-18) • The authority of Scripture (vv. 19-21) The Virtue Ladder (1:5-7) in Everyday Life 1. Faith – personal trust in Jesus. 2. Virtue – moral courage when pressured to compromise. 3. Knowledge – practical understanding of God’s will (cf. Colossians 1:9-10). 4. Self-control – saying no to destructive desires (Proverbs 25:28). 5. Perseverance – steady loyalty during hardship (James 1:2-4). 6. Godliness – showing reverence in all areas of life (1 Timothy 4:8). 7. Brotherly kindness – family-like care within the church (Romans 12:10). 8. Love – self-giving concern for all, including enemies (Matthew 5:44). • The order builds toward love, echoing 1 Corinthians 13:13: “the greatest of these is love.” Eyewitness Testimony and the Transfiguration • Peter, James, and John saw Jesus’ glory (Matthew 17:1-6). • The Father’s declaration parallels Isaiah 42:1’s portrait of the Servant. • By citing this event, Peter refutes claims that Christ’s return is a myth; he has already glimpsed the King in majesty. Scripture’s Authority (1:19-21) • “A lamp shining in a dark place” pictures the written word guiding believers until Christ’s return (“the morning star,” cf. Revelation 22:16). • “No prophecy…from one’s own interpretation” means Scripture originates with God, not human imagination. • The Spirit “carried along” the prophets, a phrase evoking wind driving a ship (Acts 27:15) and highlighting divine direction. Connections to Other Scriptures • God’s power and promises: Ephesians 1:3, “blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing.” • The call to grow: Hebrews 6:1, “let us leave the elementary teachings and press on to maturity.” • Assurance of calling: John 10:28, “no one can snatch them out of My hand.” • Reliability of prophecy: Isaiah 55:11, “My word…will accomplish what I please.” • Anticipation of Christ’s coming: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; the same Jesus glorified on the mountain will return in power. Practical Application Today • Recognize that God has already supplied what is needed for godly living; spiritual growth starts with gratitude, not lack. • Use the Virtue Ladder as a personal checklist. Progress is deliberate—add, build, supply these qualities. • Keep reminders visible: memory verses, shared testimonies, communion celebrations. Peter models repetition as a safeguard. • Treasure the Bible as a sure word amid cultural confusion. Treat it as a lamp; walk within its circle of light. • Look ahead confidently. The eyewitness report and fulfilled prophecies guarantee that the “day dawn” will arrive. Until then, stay diligent, fruitful, and full of hope. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 1:6 Assurance of God's continued work in us. Galatians 5:22-23 The fruit of the Spirit as evidence of a life transformed by God. James 1:22-25 The importance of being doers of the Word, not just hearers. Romans 12:2 The call to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Teaching Points Divine Power and Promises His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence (2 Peter 1:3). God's power equips us for a godly life. Partakers of the Divine Nature Through these He has given us His precious and magnificent promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, now that you have escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires (2 Peter 1:4). Believers are called to share in God's nature. The Call to Growth Peter lists qualities to add to our faith: goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love (2 Peter 1:5-7). These qualities are essential for spiritual growth. Fruitfulness and Assurance For if you possess these qualities and continue to grow in them, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:8). Growth in these virtues leads to a fruitful Christian life. The Importance of Remembrance Peter emphasizes the importance of remembering these truths, even though his readers are already established in them (2 Peter 1:12-15). Practical Applications Pursue Knowledge of God Make it a daily priority to grow in your understanding of God through prayer, Bible study, and meditation on His Word. Cultivate Virtues Actively work on developing the qualities listed in verses 5-7. Reflect on which areas need more attention in your life. Evaluate Your Fruitfulness Regularly assess your spiritual growth and effectiveness in serving God and others. Embrace God's Promises Hold onto God's promises as a source of strength and encouragement in your walk with Him. People 1. Simon Peter Description: The author of the letter, Simon Peter identifies himself as "a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 1:1). The name "Simon" is of Hebrew origin, while "Peter" (Πέτρος, Petros) is Greek, meaning "rock," a name given to him by Jesus. 2. Jesus Christ Description: Referred to as "our God and Savior" (2 Peter 1:1), Jesus Christ is central to the faith and teachings that Peter is addressing. The name "Jesus" is derived from the Hebrew name "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation," and "Christ" (Χριστός, Christos) is Greek for "the Anointed One." Places 1. Divine Power This refers to the source of all things that pertain to life and godliness, as mentioned in 2 Peter 1:3. The Greek word for power here is "δύναμις" (dynamis), indicating a dynamic and miraculous force. 2. Precious and Magnificent Promises These are the promises given by God that allow believers to partake in the divine nature, as stated in 2 Peter 1:4. The Greek word "ἐπαγγελία" (epangelia) is used for promises, emphasizing their assured and authoritative nature. 3. Faith Described as the foundation of the believer's life, faith is the starting point for a series of virtues listed in 2 Peter 1:5. The Greek term "πίστις" (pistis) signifies trust and conviction. 4. Moral Excellence This is the first virtue to be added to faith, as per 2 Peter 1:5. The Greek word "ἀρετή" (arete) implies moral virtue and excellence. 5. Knowledge Following moral excellence, knowledge is to be pursued, as mentioned in 2 Peter 1:5. The Greek "γνῶσις" (gnosis) refers to understanding and insight. 6. Self-Control This virtue is to be developed after knowledge, as stated in 2 Peter 1:6. The Greek "ἐγκράτεια" (egkrateia) means self-mastery or discipline. 7. Perseverance Also known as steadfastness, this is the next virtue in the sequence, as per 2 Peter 1:6. The Greek "ὑπομονή" (hypomone) conveys endurance and patience. 8. Godliness This virtue follows perseverance, as mentioned in 2 Peter 1:6. The Greek "εὐσέβεια" (eusebeia) refers to piety and reverence towards God. 9. Brotherly Kindness Also known as brotherly affection, this is to be added to godliness, as per 2 Peter 1:7. The Greek "φιλαδελφία" (philadelphia) signifies love for fellow believers. 10. Love The culmination of the virtues, love is the ultimate goal, as stated in 2 Peter 1:7. The Greek "ἀγάπη" (agape) represents selfless, unconditional love. Events 1. Introduction and Greeting (2 Peter 1:1-2) Peter introduces himself as "a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ" and addresses those who have received faith "as precious as ours." He extends grace and peace through the knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. The Greek word for "servant" is "δοῦλος" (doulos), indicating a bondservant or slave, emphasizing Peter's humility and dedication. 2. Divine Power and Promises (2 Peter 1:3-4) Peter speaks of God's divine power granting "everything we need for life and godliness" through the knowledge of Him. He mentions the "precious and magnificent promises" that allow believers to partake in the divine nature, escaping the corruption in the world. The Greek term "ἐπαγγέλματα" (epangelmata) for "promises" underscores the certainty and assurance of God's commitments. 3. Call to Spiritual Growth (2 Peter 1:5-7) Believers are urged to add to their faith virtues such as goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. This progression reflects a growth in Christian character, with "ἀρετή" (arete) for "goodness" or "virtue" highlighting moral excellence. 4. Fruitfulness and Assurance (2 Peter 1:8-11) Peter explains that possessing these qualities in increasing measure keeps believers from being ineffective and unproductive in their knowledge of Jesus Christ. He warns that lacking these qualities leads to spiritual blindness. The passage concludes with an assurance of a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of Jesus Christ for those who practice these virtues. 5. Peter’s Reminder and Testimony (2 Peter 1:12-15) Peter emphasizes his commitment to remind the believers of these truths, even though they are already established in them. He expresses his awareness of his impending death, referring to it as "putting off my tent," a metaphor for his physical body, derived from the Greek "σκηνώματος" (skenomatos). 6. Eyewitness of Christ’s Majesty (2 Peter 1:16-18) Peter recounts his experience as an eyewitness of Christ's majesty, specifically referencing the Transfiguration. He emphasizes that they did not follow "cleverly devised fables" but were eyewitnesses of His majesty, with "ἐπόπται" (epoptai) indicating a firsthand observer. 7. The Prophetic Word Confirmed (2 Peter 1:19-21) Peter underscores the reliability of the prophetic word, urging believers to pay attention to it as a "lamp shining in a dark place." He clarifies that prophecy never originated from human will but from men who spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. The Greek "φερόμενοι" (pheromenoi) for "carried along" suggests being moved or guided by the Spirit. Lessons from 2 Peter 1 1. Embrace the Gift of Faith In 2 Peter 1:1, we are reminded of the precious faith we have received through the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ. This faith is not something we earn but a divine gift that empowers us to live a life pleasing to God. Embrace this gift with gratitude, knowing that it is the foundation of your spiritual journey. 2. Grow in Grace and Peace Verse 2 encourages us to multiply grace and peace in our lives through the knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. This growth is not passive; it requires intentional pursuit of understanding and relationship with God. As you deepen your knowledge of Him, you will find your life enriched with His grace and peace. 3. Partake in Divine Nature 2 Peter 1:4 speaks of the incredible promise that we can partake in the divine nature, escaping the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. This is a call to live a life that reflects God's character, empowered by His promises. Let this truth inspire you to rise above worldly temptations and live a life of holiness. 4. Add to Your Faith Verses 5-7 outline a progression of virtues to add to your faith: goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. Each of these qualities builds upon the other, creating a robust and mature faith. Make it a daily goal to cultivate these virtues, allowing them to transform your character. 5. Be Effective and Fruitful In verse 8, Peter assures us that possessing these qualities in increasing measure will keep us from being ineffective and unproductive in our knowledge of Jesus Christ. Strive to be fruitful in your spiritual walk, knowing that your growth glorifies God and impacts those around you. 6. Remember Your Cleansing Verse 9 warns against forgetting the cleansing from past sins. Remembering the forgiveness and grace you've received keeps you humble and grateful. It also motivates you to extend the same grace to others, fostering a spirit of compassion and understanding. 7. Make Your Calling Sure 2 Peter 1:10 urges us to be diligent in confirming our calling and election. This is not about earning salvation but living in a way that reflects the certainty of your faith. By doing so, you will never stumble, and your life will be a testament to God's faithfulness. 8. Anticipate a Rich Welcome Verse 11 promises a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for those who live faithfully. Let this assurance fill you with hope and motivation to persevere, knowing that your efforts are not in vain and that a glorious future awaits. 9. Hold Fast to the Truth Peter emphasizes in verses 12-15 the importance of being reminded of the truth, even if you are already established in it. Regularly revisit the foundational truths of your faith to keep them fresh in your mind and heart. This practice will anchor you in times of doubt and challenge. 10. Trust the Prophetic Word Finally, in verses 19-21, Peter highlights the reliability of the prophetic word, which shines like a lamp in a dark place. Trust in the Scriptures, knowing that they are inspired by the Holy Spirit and provide guidance and wisdom for every aspect of life. Let the Word of God illuminate your path and direct your steps. Topics 1. Greeting and Salutation (2 Peter 1:1-2) Peter introduces himself as "a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ" and addresses those who have received faith "as precious as ours." The Greek word for "servant" is "δοῦλος" (doulos), indicating a bondservant or slave, emphasizing Peter's humility and dedication to Christ. 2. Divine Power and Promises (2 Peter 1:3-4) Peter speaks of God's divine power granting "everything we need for life and godliness" through knowledge of Him. The Greek term for "knowledge" is "ἐπίγνωσις" (epignosis), suggesting a deep, personal understanding. He also mentions the "precious and magnificent promises" that enable believers to partake in the divine nature. 3. Christian Virtues and Growth (2 Peter 1:5-7) A call to supplement faith with virtues such as goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. The Greek word for "supplement" is "ἐπιχορηγέω" (epichorēgeō), meaning to supply or furnish abundantly. 4. Fruitfulness and Assurance (2 Peter 1:8-11) Peter emphasizes that possessing these qualities in increasing measure keeps believers from being ineffective and unproductive. He warns against spiritual blindness and forgetfulness of past cleansing from sins. Assurance of calling and election is encouraged, promising a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom. 5. Peter’s Reminder and Testimony (2 Peter 1:12-15) Peter expresses his intent to remind believers of these truths, even though they are already established in them. He acknowledges his impending death, using the Greek word "σκηνώματι" (skēnōmati) for "tent," metaphorically referring to his body. 6. Eyewitness of Christ’s Majesty (2 Peter 1:16-18) Peter asserts the authenticity of the apostolic message, having been eyewitnesses of Christ's majesty, specifically referencing the Transfiguration. The Greek term "ἐπόπται" (epoptai) means eyewitnesses, indicating firsthand experience. 7. Prophetic Word Confirmed (2 Peter 1:19-21) The prophetic word is described as "a lamp shining in a dark place," and believers are urged to pay attention to it. Peter clarifies that prophecy does not originate from human will but from men moved by the Holy Spirit. The Greek word "φέρω" (pherō) means to carry or bear, indicating the Spirit's role in guiding the prophets. Themes 1. Divine Power and Godliness 2 Peter 1:3 states, "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence." This theme emphasizes that God's power provides believers with all they need to live a godly life. The Greek word for "power" (δύναμις, dynamis) underscores the inherent strength and ability granted by God. 2. Participation in the Divine Nature Verse 4 highlights, "Through these He has given us His precious and magnificent promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, now that you have escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires." This theme speaks to the transformative promise of sharing in God's nature, moving away from worldly corruption. The term "partakers" (κοινωνοί, koinonoi) suggests a deep fellowship or sharing. 3. Moral and Spiritual Growth Verses 5-7 outline a progression of virtues: "For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love." This theme stresses the importance of actively cultivating Christian virtues, building upon faith with qualities that reflect Christ's character. 4. Fruitfulness in the Knowledge of Christ In verse 8, Peter writes, "For if you possess these qualities and continue to grow in them, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." This theme underscores the necessity of spiritual growth to ensure a fruitful Christian life. The Greek word for "unproductive" (ἄκαρπος, akarpos) literally means "without fruit," highlighting the importance of bearing spiritual fruit. 5. Assurance of Calling and Election Verse 10 encourages believers, "Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things, you will never stumble." This theme focuses on the assurance of salvation and the importance of living out one's faith to confirm one's calling. The Greek word for "sure" (βέβαιος, bebaios) implies a firm, steadfast certainty. 6. The Eternal Kingdom Verse 11 promises, "and you will receive a lavish reception into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." This theme points to the hope of eternal life and the ultimate reward for believers. The term "lavish reception" (πλουσίως, plousios) conveys the abundant and generous welcome awaiting believers in God's kingdom. 7. The Reliability of Prophetic Word Verses 19-21 affirm, "And we have the word of the prophets as confirmed beyond doubt, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture comes from one’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever brought about through human initiative, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." This theme emphasizes the trustworthiness and divine origin of Scripture, highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding the prophets. The Greek word for "carried along" (φερόμενοι, pheromenoi) suggests being moved or driven by the Spirit. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Divine Power Thank God for His divine power that equips us for life and godliness. Desire for Growth Pray for a deep desire to grow in the virtues listed by Peter. Fruitfulness in Knowledge Ask God to help you be fruitful and effective in your knowledge of Jesus Christ. Remembrance of Truths Pray for the Holy Spirit to remind you of these truths and help you live them out daily. As we study 2 Peter 1, may we be inspired to diligently pursue a life that reflects the divine nature, growing in grace and knowledge, and bearing fruit for the glory of God. Answering Tough Questions 1. 2 Peter 1:1 claims Peter as the author; how do we reconcile this with stylistic differences and scholarly doubts about its authenticity? 2. In 2 Peter 1:4, what does it practically mean for believers to be “partakers of the divine nature,” and doesn’t this contradict other passages stressing God’s uniqueness? 3. 2 Peter 1:16–18 refers to the Transfiguration; why is its account noticeably different from the synoptic Gospels’ versions? 4. 2 Peter 1:19–21 insists prophecy comes from God, not humans; how do we explain the multitude of conflicting interpretations throughout Christian history? 5. Some argue 2 Peter 1 contradicts other scriptures by emphasizing human effort (“make every effort” in verse 5) within salvation; how is this tension resolved? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Peter describe the divine power and promises of God in verses 1-4? 2. What virtues does Peter encourage believers to cultivate and why? 3. How does the pursuit of these virtues contribute to a fruitful and effective Christian life? 4. Why does Peter link spiritual blindness to a lack of these virtues? 5. How does Peter’s personal witness of Christ’s glory on the Mount of Transfiguration serve as a testament to Christ's divinity? 6. How does Peter portray the relationship between divine prophecy and human will? 7. Why do you think Peter refers to the prophetic word as a 'light shining in a dark place'? 8. How can we apply the virtues listed by Peter in our daily lives? Give practical examples. 9. In what ways can we partake in the divine nature in contemporary society? 10. How can we assure our calling and election in the world today, as suggested by Peter? 11. Reflect on a situation where you needed to exercise the virtues listed by Peter. How did it change the situation? 12. How can Peter's assertion of the prophetic word influence our understanding and response to the Bible today? 13. How does the concept of partaking in God's divine nature challenge or affirm your current understanding of Christian living? 14. How can we escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires as suggested in verse 4? 15. What does the affirmation of Jesus by God the Father mean to your personal faith journey? 16. In what ways does the affirmation of Christ's glory reassure you in your faith? 17. Reflect on the meaning of prophecy in your faith. How does it influence your perception of the Bible and your Christian walk? 18. How can you ensure that you are not spiritually 'shortsighted' or 'blind' as Peter warns? 19. In the context of present day living, how can we ascertain the certainty of Christ's return? 20. How might cultivating the virtues mentioned in this chapter help us to respond to the challenges in our world today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions