A Valuable Warning From Peter; Never Twist God's Word

(Photo: Unsplash)

As Peter the Apostle finished up his second epistle, he referred to Paul. He said, our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him. Then Peter gave a valuable warning that we should never twist God’s Word.

Our verse for today says, Some of his comments. Some of whose comments? He’s talking about things Paul had written.

Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture. And this will result in their destruction. 2 Peter 3:16

One day when Jesus was teaching along the Sea of Galilee, He chose Peter to follow Him. Most of us could identify with how Peter was at the beginning.

But, just as Jesus foretold, Peter became a great leader in the early church. And a man of great compassion. This is seen in the early verses of this chapter.

I have tried to stimulate your wholesome thinking and refresh your memory. I want you to remember what the holy prophets said long ago and what our Lord and Savior commanded through your apostles. 2 Peter 3:1-2

This chapter began and ended with warnings to all his readers. That includes us as well. Because just like back in his day, people still try to dilute and twist God’s Word.

Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own desires. 2 Peter 3:3

God’s Delay Means Patience

A Valuable Warning From Peter

One of the biggest arguments of these scoffers focused on the idea that Christ hadn’t come back yet. Peter explained that God’s timing is paramount. Even though we measure by time, God doesn’t. A thousand years or a day, both are the same to the Lord.

A fact that Peter knew and that we should understand is this. God does everything according to His will and to benefit us. What some described as slow, Peter revealed as patience.

The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. 2 Peter 3:4

Peter then gave a short dissertation on the end times. After which, he gave some instructions as to how we should live while waiting for the Lord’s return.

And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight. 2 Peter 3:14

Valuable Warning Peter Gave Included Paul’s Writings

I believe Peter recognized the apostolic calling on Paul’s life. And he also realized the value of what he wrote to the churches. It seemed that Peter was giving the same weight to the epistles of Paul as the scriptures had. 

It was at this point he gave a warning about twisting or changing scripture. That included Paul’s writing as well. He also gave a stern warning to stay alert of those who do.

So be on guard; then you will not be carried away by the errors of these wicked people and lose your own secure footing. 2 Peter 3:17

Read this related post about a warning from the Book of Hebrews called An Important Warning About A Rebellious Heart Against God.

Lord, thank you for the many gifted teachers you have supplied us with. Give us the insight into your Word through the Holy Spirit that we need. Also, give us discernment when someone tries to teach us a twisted version of the gospel.

Here’s a post you will enjoy reading, How to Stay Motivated to Read and Investigate God’s Word.

Read all of 2 Peter 3, you’ll be glad you did.


Editor's Picks

Editor's Picks