Wednesday 16 September 2026
- Bible Book:
- 2 Peter
You will do well to be attentive to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. (v. 19)
Background
As we discussed in yesterday’s Bible passage Peter is an eyewitness to the ministry and teachings of Jesus (2 Peter 1:16-18). He was present at Jesus’ transfiguration on the mountain top (when Jesus’ appearance was changed, filled with light) (Matthew 17:5) and can never forget what he saw and heard.
In today’s passage, Peter referred to the prophetic message now being ‘more fully confirmed’ by his testimony of what happened at the transfiguration and other testimonies concerning Jesus. Peter confirms in verse 20 that he is talking of the ‘prophetic scripture’. The Prophets were the people who communicated the message of God to God’s people in the Old Testament (the first part of the Bible also known as the Hebrew Bible that tells of the laws and history of the Jews and God’s words to them).
Peter is aware that there are false teachers who are a disruptive influence on groups of Christians and so that they are prepared for this, it is therefore essential that the people study and understand the nature of Scripture.
The study of Scripture lights the path through life until the day dawns with Christ’s return. Peter compared the word of God to bringing light to the dark world and to people's hearts; he described Jesus as the ‘morning star’, which is a name given to him in the book of Revelation (Revelation 22:16). Peter goes on to say that the true interpretation of the message itself is given by God through the Holy Spirit, and not from someone’s own interpretation.
To Ponder:
- Paul encouraged the Church to pay attention to Scripture. Do you find that there are stumbling blocks to your study of the Bible? If so, are there any resources you need, or changes you ought to make?
- As we think of the recent wildfires and the mudslides that have caused tragic devastation, what light can you find in the darkness that gives you encouragement and hope? Are there any words in the reading that speak to you?
Prayer
Almighty God, you gave your prophetic word to your people, over many generations, pointing the way to Jesus. We pray that you continue to speak to us as we open our Bibles and study the Scripture laid before us. May your Holy Spirit warm our hearts with your presence and love within 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.