Bible Passage: 2 Peter 1:12-21
Big Idea: Being grounded in the truth of Scripture helps believers live faithfully and confidently amid a world filled with confusion and lies.
Opening Thoughts
In Matthew 4, Matthew records the temptations of Christ after His baptism. Jesus response the same way to each of the temptations, “For it is written.” Jesus had a deep understanding of scripture and was able to use it to withstand Satan’s temptations.
Paul in his letter to Timothy wrote: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15. In Ephesians Paul described the word of God as the sword of the Spirit (Eph 6:17).
Peter’s letter emphasizes the necessity of adhering to scriptural teachings as we strive to live morally upright lives in a challenging cultural environment. He encourages us to remain vigilant and committed to our faith. Understanding the significance of prophetic revelation and the authoritative role of Scripture in directing our daily conduct is crucial.
Persevere in Truthful Remembrance
12 Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. 13 I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ made clear to me. 15 And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.
Peter indicates that he will continue to remind the believers of the qualities that are foundational to their faith as long as he is alive. He recognizes that his time for teaching and guiding them is limited and expresses a desire for them to be able to recall the teachings he has provided.
While salvation frees us from sin, it is essential to remember our origins and the sacrifice made by Christ for our freedom. The Christian journey is one of continuous growth. From the moment of salvation until we encounter Jesus in heaven, we are called to develop in faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, and love. To cultivate godliness, we must reflect upon and integrate the spiritual truths found within the Scriptures.
We have access to God’s written Word in both the Old Testament and the New Testament, which were recorded by men inspired by God. This was done so that we could learn and be continually reminded of God’s truth. The Word of God is a precious treasure of divine revelation, initially given to ancient Israel and then extended to everyone through what God did in His Son Jesus Christ.
A significant aspect of our spiritual growth is the daily study of God’s Word. We are to allow God’s Word to guide us into obedient and transformed lives. As the Word of God takes root in our lives, it will testify to the changes brought about by the power of the gospel. Regular study, reflection, and obedience to God’s Word will reveal our spiritual responsibilities. Being able to recall the truths found in scripture will aid in preventing us from being swayed by false teachings or doubts. Instead, it will foster a steadfast, Christ-centered conviction in our daily walk.
Pursue Verified Witness
16 For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” 18 we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain.
During my research into potential Bible colleges, I placed emphasis on understanding each institution’s stance regarding the authority of scripture. At that time, my denomination was engaged in an internal debate over the doctrine of biblical inerrancy. Over the years, some faculty members in the denomination’s colleges and seminaries advocated views suggesting the Bible contained inaccuracies and mythological elements. Ultimately, advocates for biblical inerrancy succeeded in restoring leadership that believed and taught biblical inerrancy within these academic institutions.
This challenge is not unique to recent times; similar issues existed during the apostle Peter’s era. Some individuals promoted alternative interpretations about Jesus and His return, which Peter referred to as “cleverly devised myths.” It is important to recognize that, unlike today, early believers did not have access to a completed New Testament and depended on the teachings of the Apostles. Peter and the other apostles affirmed that the Old Testament Prophets wrote God’s messages the same way that they were proclaiming God’s truth by preaching the gospel.
Peter was completely convinced of the truth that he taught because of his personal experience being one of Christ’s disciples. He had been an eyewitness to the ministry of Jesus. Peter had been witness of the glory along with James and John at the Transfiguration, where Jesus revealed his divine identity (Matt 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36). The Transfiguration was a preview for Peter and those with him of Jesus’ final glory and power, which would be inaugurated with the Second Coming.
Peter emphasizes that Christian faith is based on historical accounts rather than myths or fiction. Unlike many world religions, which often lack verifiable historical origins, Christianity is closely tied to the testimony of eyewitnesses who possessed thorough knowledge of Jesus’s life and ministry (cf. John 15:26–27; Acts 1:21–22; 2:42). Peter and the other apostles did not invent narratives about Jesus. Because they were direct witnesses to his life and teachings. Their firsthand testimony serves to strengthen and encourage us as believers in our journey as disciples of Christ. Furthermore, Peter’s reference to the glory and majesty of Jesus aims to inspire believers toward virtuous living and perseverance amidst challenges, until the anticipated moment of seeing Him face-to-face (Titus 2:11–14; 1 John 3:1–3).
Prioritize God’s Prophetic Word
19 And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
Peter affirmed his unwavering trust in the Old Testament Scriptures. He previously recounted his extraordinary encounter witnessing Jesus Christ’s glory during the transfiguration on the mountain, an event that served as a glimpse of the anticipated return of Christ. However, Peter emphasizes that “the prophetic word more fully confirmed” and suggests to his audience that their assurance concerning Christ need not be based solely on personal experiences. Rather, he underscores that Scripture offers a source of confirmation that surpasses individual testimony in reliability.
A comprehensive study of both the Old Testament and the New Testament—including the prophecies regarding Christ and their subsequent fulfillment—is essential. All scripture serves as a guide through the complexities of life and this corrupt culture in which we live. In order to stand against the errors of false teachers, we must seek to understand, accept, and obey the entirety of Scripture. Understanding that all of scripture is from God and was written by men as they were led by the Holy Spirit.
Application
It can be challenging to hold onto your faith when there is so much misinformation in books and online. It’s important not to accept every teaching without question. Take inspiration from the Bereans in the New Testament (Acts 17), who examined the scriptures to confirm that Paul’s message was true. This level of discernment requires dedicating time each day to study and reflect on the Word of God. Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit for understanding, and write down valuable insights you gain. Sharing these with friends can strengthen your dedication to the truth of God’s Word and encourage others as you all grow in knowledge together.
Discussion Questions
1. Why is it important to know about the origin of the Bible?
2. How important to your faith is it that Peter (and other New Testament writers) were eyewitnesses of the life of Christ?
3. How can we be confident that the Bible is the Word of God?
4. How does a Christian leader avoid carelessly using Scripture that results in one’s “own interpretation” or faulty interpretation? What steps can be made to avoid this at all cost?
5. What implications does divine inspiration carry, specifically in how we read and apply the Bible?
©2026 CrossSites Bible Study, St. Augustine, Fl 32092
CrossSites Bible Study 
Leave a comment