Saturday 19 September 2026
- Bible Book:
- 2 Peter
You therefore, beloved, since you are forewarned, beware that you are not carried away with the error of the lawless and lose your own stability. (v. 17)
Background
We come now to our final study this week, and Peter’s conclusion to his letter. He said that while they wait for ‘these things’, that is the coming of Jesus (‘the day of the Lord’), judgement and the new heavens and a new earth, they are to be at peace and to live holy and blameless lives. He refers to Paul’s wisdom and his writing about peace and holy living (1 Thessalonians 5:23).
Peter noted that some people find Paul’s writings hard to understand and twist the words for their own use, but as Peter has taught them these things, they are forewarned. They are not to get carried away by others' lawless ways. Growth in their faith and understanding of the scriptures, and in the grace of Jesus (favour and love of God), is essential for their spiritual maturity (a deepening of their relationship with God).
This week, Peter has shown that there is no measure to God’s generous forgiveness; he has warned against false teachers; told the people to remember their calling and what it means to be a Christian in order to face opposition; that the truth about Jesus is not a myth; it is important to study and understand Scripture; to remember the words of the prophets and apostles; and to live a life of holiness and godliness.
May all people “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen” (verse 18).
To Ponder:
- Are there things that you need to relinquish to be at peace with God? Are you able to hand them over to him?
- Is there one thing that you can take from today’s summary and reflection that will make a change or a difference to you?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, we adore and praise you, all glory belongs to you. We thank you for being in our lives and teaching us the way to life eternal, through the prophetic words of the apostles of today – through those we meet in our daily lives. Help us to take notice of the words and signs that you show us. Amen.
Bible Notes Author: The Revd Ann Fox
The Revd Fox is Superintendent Minister of Tadcaster Circuit and a member of the District Leadership Team (Yorkshire North & East). She is called to serve alongside others and enjoys care for older people, hearing people’s stories, and receiving inspiration from children and young people.