Daily Devotions
2 Peter
INTRODUCTION
Text: 2 Peter
INTRODUCTION
THE FIRST EPISTLE FROM THE APOSTLE PETER
The First Epistle from the Apostle Peter featured many vital and foundational truths. If understood well, these truths would help the believers to grow in their faith significantly. The believers faced many trials that tested their faith and their character. The words of encouragement from Peter would have gone a long way to strengthen their faith in the Lord.
THE SECOND EPISTLE OF THE APOSTLE PETER
The Second Epistle was timely as well. The contents of this Epistle were somewhat similar and yet refreshingly different and uplifting.
Two main themes may be noted:
1. Encouragement to build up faith
This was how Peter began his Second Epistle. Peter was conscious that this Epistle was a strong reminder of what he had written earlier. Our faith in the Lord is a precious gift from God. However, this faith must be built up diligently and wisely.
Peter remembered how his faith had been weak when he was a disciple. Many were the rebukes he and his fellow-disciples received from their Teacher. Where faith is weak, there would hardly be fruit in life and ministry!
Thus, he wrote to share with his readers how they could grow their faith practically. When faith is strong, it would enable the believer to have a very meaningful life in Christ.
2. Exhortation to look forward to the Second Coming of Christ
To the Apostle Peter, the Second Coming of Christ was a glorious event. It was something that every believer should look forward to with all their heart. This was his own outlook as he wrote about the return of the Lord Jesus Christ.
However, Peter was very aware that the End Times would also be fraught with danger.
There would be challenges that would prove as difficult as facing suffering. Not many had sufficient knowledge or faith that would enable them to have this positive outlook towards the Return of Christ.
Believers need to be equipped with knowledge and understanding. Peter wrote with wisdom and understanding concerning these dangers and how to face them confidently.
OUR CHALLENGE
1. Cultivating our Faith
We must recognize that we need to work at developing our faith! The danger of slipping into unbelief is very real!
2. Consciousness of the Second Coming of Christ
This must be cultivated too! Many fear the Return of the Lord because they are not ready for His Second Coming. Let us seek to grow in our knowledge and our faith in every way possible!
May the God of all grace bless as we take time to read the Second Epistle of Peter!