Deeper Reflection
THIS SECOND¹ LETTER BY APOSTLE PETER WAS PROBABLY written in the early AD 60s to an unspecified group of Christians (v.1).² In it, Peter took pains to remind them of foundational truths and warn them of dangerous deceivers who sought to destroy their Christian faith.³ Thus, Peter prepared his hearers and readers to meet King Jesus at His return.⁴In this passage, Peter highlights two foundational truths to which Christians must hold fast if they want to live effective and fruitful lives as they await Christ’s Second Coming and have confidence that they will enter His eternal Kingdom (vv.8-11).⁵ First, Jesus Christ is fully God – the deity of Christ! In verse 1, one divine person was referred to: “…our God and Saviour Jesus Christ”⁶. Then in verse 2, two distinct divine persons were referred to: “…of God and of Jesus our Lord”. Clearly then, the Lord Jesus is fully God – the second divine Person of the Trinity – even as He is fully human⁷. True believers put their faith in the true God and Saviour.Second, true Christians develop Christlike character. The saving knowledge of Jesus Christ provides Christians with the divine power to grow in Christlikeness (vv.3-4). However, believers must make strenuous and sustained personal efforts (“make every effort”, v.5) alongside God’s divine work within them, to grow and increase in Christlike qualities. Seven are mentioned here: virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection and love (vv.5-7). Decisive actions and continual practice are required. Over time, the true believers will develop a Christlike character that is distinct from the world and glorifies God.

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¹ 2 Peter 3:1. ² Likely the same recipients identified in 1 Peter 1:1. Peter had previously ministered to them through preaching (2 Pet 1:16) and now when he was anticipating his impending death (2 Pet 1:14; presumably from persecution). ³ 2 Peter 1:12-15; 2:1-3; 3:1-3. ⁴ 2 Peter 3:10-14. ⁵ The fruitfulness of a Christian’s life provides evidence of salvation. ⁶ Likewise, Titus 2:13. ⁷ The apostles and early disciples were first-hand witnesses of the fact that Jesus had lived, walked and ate with them and the people, and had taught, ministered and served among them.