2PE front intro mvk9 0 # Introduction to 2 Peter<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>#### Outline of the Book of 2 Peter<br><br>1. Introduction (1:1-2)<br>1. Reminder to live good lives because God has enabled us to (1:3-21)<br>1. Warning against false teachers (2:1-22)<br>1. Encouragement to prepare for the second coming of Jesus (3:1-17)<br><br>#### Who wrote the Book of 2 Peter?<br><br>The author identified himself as Simon Peter. Simon Peter was an apostle. He also wrote 1 Peter. Peter probably wrote this letter while in a prison in Rome just before he died. Peter called this letter his second letter, so we can date it after 1 Peter. He addressed the letter to the same audience as his first letter. The audience probably was Christians scattered throughout Asia Minor.<br><br>#### What is the Book of 2 Peter about?<br><br>Peter wrote this letter to encourage believers to live good lives. He warned them about false teachers who were saying Jesus was taking too long to return. He told them that Jesus was not slow in returning. Instead, God was giving people time to repent so that they would be saved.<br><br>#### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "2 Peter" or "Second Peter." Or they may choose a clearer title, such as "The Second Letter from Peter" or "The Second Letter Peter Wrote." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>#### Who were the people Peter spoke against?<br><br>It is possible that the people Peter spoke against were those who would become known as Gnostics. These teachers distorted the teachings of scripture for their own gain. They lived in immoral ways and taught others to do the same.<br><br>#### What does it mean that God inspired Scripture?<br><br>The doctrine of scripture is a very important one. 2 Peter helps readers to understand that while each writer of scripture had his own distinct way of writing, God is the true author of scripture (1:20-21).<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>##### Singular and plural "you"<br><br>In this book, the word "I" refers to Peter. Also, the word "you" is always plural and refers to Peter's audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])<br><br>#### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 2 Peter?<br><br>For the following verses, some modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br><br>* "to be kept in chains of lower darkness until the judgment" (2:4). Some modern versions and older versions have, "to be kept in pits of lower darkness until the judgment."<br>* "They enjoy their deceitful actions while they are feasting with you" (2:13). Some versions have, "They enjoy their actions while they are feasting with you in love feasts."<br>* "Beor" (2:15). Some other versions read, "Bosor."<br>* "The elements will be burned with fire, and the earth and the deeds in it will be revealed" (3:10). Other versions have, "The elements will be burned with fire, and the earth and the deeds in it will be burned up."<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])<br>
2PE 01 intro wjw5 0 # 2 Peter 01 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>Peter formally introduces this letter in verses 1-2. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Knowledge of God<br>Having knowledge of God means to belong to him or to have a relationship with him. Here, "knowledge" is more than just mentally knowing about God. It is a knowledge that causes God to save a person and to give him grace and peace. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/know]])<br><br>##### Living godly lives<br>Peter teaches that God has given believers all that they need for living godly lives. Therefore, believers should do everything they can to obey God more and more. If believers continue to do this, then they will be effective and productive through their relationship with Jesus. However, if believers do not continue living godly lives, then it is like they have forgotten what God did through Christ to save them. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### The truth of Scripture<br>Peter teaches that the prophecies in Scripture were not made up by men. The Holy Spirit revealed God's message to the men who spoke them or wrote them down. Also, Peter and the other apostles did not make up the stories they told people about Jesus. They witnessed what Jesus did and heard God call Jesus his son.<br>
2PE 01 01 n1di 0 General Information: Peter identifies himself as the writer and identifies and greets the believers he is writing to.
2PE 01 01 v381 0 slave and apostle of Jesus Christ Peter speaks of being Jesus Christ's servant. He also was given the position and authority of being Christ's apostle.
2PE 01 01 yy7j figs-explicit 0 to those who have received the same precious faith That these people have received faith implies that God has given that faith to them. Alternate translation: "to those to whom God has given the same precious faith" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2PE 01 01 mbg7 0 to those who have received "to you who have received." Peter addresses all believers who may read this letter.
2PE 01 01 y157 figs-exclusive 0 we have received Here the word "we" refers to Peter and the other apostles, but not to those to whom he is writing. Alternate translation: "we apostles have received" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2PE 01 02 y7l9 figs-explicit 0 May grace and peace increase in measure God is the one who will give grace and peace to believers. Alternate translation: "May God increase your grace and your peace" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2PE 01 02 n59n figs-metaphor 0 May grace and peace increase Peter speaks of peace as if it were an object that could increase in size or numbers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 01 02 vq19 figs-abstractnouns 0 in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord You can translate "knowledge" using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "through your knowing God and Jesus our Lord" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2PE 01 03 ywj9 0 General Information: Peter begins to teach the believers about living godly lives.
2PE 01 03 epx9 figs-hendiadys 0 for life and godliness Here "godliness" describes the word "life." Alternate translation: "for a godly life" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
2PE 01 03 an3z figs-inclusive 0 who called us Here the word "us" refers to Peter and his audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2PE 01 04 m91m 0 Through these Here "these" refers to "his own glory and virtue."
2PE 01 04 f42f 0 you might be sharers "you might share"
2PE 01 04 yk7g 0 the divine nature what God is like
2PE 01 04 p2yj figs-metaphor 0 having escaped the corruption in the world that is caused by evil desires Peter speaks of people not suffering from the corruption that wicked desires cause as if they were escaping from that corruption. The word "corruption" is an abstract noun that can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "and so that the wicked desires in this world will no longer corrupt you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2PE 01 05 exd9 figs-explicit 0 For this reason This refers to what Peter has just said in the previous verses. Alternate translation: "Because of what God has done" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2PE 01 07 a8ti 0 brotherly affection This refers to love for a friend or family member and likely means love for ones spiritual family.
2PE 01 08 jz77 0 these things This refers to faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love, which Peter mentioned in the previous verses.
2PE 01 08 l7yj figs-metaphor 0 you will not be barren or unfruitful Peter speaks of a person who does not possess these qualities as if he is a field that will not produce a crop. This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: "you will produce and be fruitful" or "you will be effective" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2PE 01 08 f9qm figs-doublet 0 barren or unfruitful These words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that this person will not be productive or experience any benefits from knowing Jesus. Alternate translation: "unproductive" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2PE 01 08 ppd8 figs-abstractnouns 0 in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ You can translate "knowledge" using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "through your knowing God and Jesus our Lord" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2PE 01 09 gg2c 0 whoever lacks these things any person who does not have these things
2PE 01 09 h6fn figs-metaphor 0 is so nearsighted that he is blind Peter speaks of a person who does not possess these qualities as if he were a nearsighted or blind person because he does not understand their value. Alternate translation: "is like a shortsighted person who cannot see their importance" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 01 09 gq4d figs-abstractnouns 0 he has been cleansed from his past sins You can use a verb to translate this. Alternate translation: "that God has cleansed him from his old sins" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2PE 01 10 raa1 figs-doublet 0 make your calling and election sure The words "calling" and "election" share similar meanings and refer to God's choosing them to belong to him. Alternate translation: "make sure that God has really chosen you to belong to him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2PE 01 10 jcv9 figs-metaphor 0 you will not stumble Here the word "stumble" refers either to 1) committing sin. Alternate translation: "you will not practice sinful behavior" or 2) becoming unfaithful to Christ. Alternate translation: "you will not become unfaithful to Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 01 11 f45v figs-activepassive 0 there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will richly provide for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 01 11 k1e4 0 an entrance the opportunity to enter
2PE 01 12 l2kh 0 you are strong in the truth "you strongly believe the truth of these things"
2PE 01 13 vmj2 figs-metaphor 0 to stir you up by way of reminder Here the word "stir" means to awaken someone from sleep. Peter speaks of causing his readers to think about these things as if he were waking them from sleep. Alternate translation: "to remind you of these things so that you will think about them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 01 13 ax2a figs-metaphor 0 as long as I am in this tent Peter speaks of his body as if it were a tent that he is wearing and will take off. Being in his body represents being alive, and taking it off represents dying. Alternate translation: "as long as I am in this body" or "as long as I am alive" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2PE 01 14 j8f5 figs-metaphor 0 the putting off of my tent will be soon Peter speaks of his body as if it were a tent that he is wearing and will take off. Being in his body represents being alive, and taking it off represents dying. Alternate translation: "I will soon take off this body" or "I will die soon" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2PE 01 15 c2iw 0 you may be always able to remember these things Here the words "these things" refers to everything that Peter has said in the previous verses.
2PE 01 15 alg8 figs-metaphor 0 after my departure Peter speaks of his death as if he were leaving one place to go to another. Alternate translation: "after my death" or "after I die" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2PE 01 16 vc99 figs-exclusive 0 For we did not follow cleverly invented myths Here the word "we" refers to Peter and the other apostles, but not to his readers. Alternate translation: "For we apostles did not follow cleverly made-up stories" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2PE 01 16 jwy8 figs-hendiadys 0 the power and the coming These two phrases may refer to the same thing and be translated as a single phrase. Alternate translation: "the powerful coming" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
2PE 01 16 zs6v 0 the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ Possible meanings are 1) the future second coming of the Lord Jesus or 2) the first coming of the Lord Jesus.
2PE 01 16 v4kd figs-inclusive 0 our Lord Jesus Christ Here the word "our" refers to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2PE 01 17 m33h figs-activepassive 0 when a voice was brought to him by the Majestic Glory This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "when he heard a voice come from the Majestic Glory" or "when he heard the voice of the Majestic Glory speak to him" or "when the Majestic Glory spoke to him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 01 17 yd8g figs-metonymy 0 the Majestic Glory saying Peter refers to God in terms of his glory. This is a euphemism that avoids using God's name, out of reverence for him. Alternate translation: "God, the Supreme Glory, saying" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2PE 01 18 ezn2 figs-exclusive 0 We ourselves heard this voice brought from heaven With the word "We," Peter is referring to himself and to the disciples James and John, who heard the voice of God. Alternate translation: "We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2PE 01 18 chy4 0 heard this voice brought from heaven "heard the voice of the one who spoke from heaven"
2PE 01 18 mlm9 0 we were with him "we were with Jesus"
2PE 01 19 km3l 0 General Information: Peter begins to warn the believers about false teachers.
2PE 01 19 h498 figs-explicit 0 For we have this prophetic word made more sure The things that Peter and the other apostles saw, which he described in the previous verses, confirm what the prophets spoke. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "For the things that we saw make this prophetic message more sure" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 01 19 z3na figs-inclusive 0 For we have Here the word "we" refers to all believers, including Peter and his readers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2PE 01 19 l7zq figs-explicit 0 this prophetic word made This refers to the Old Testament. Alternate translation: "the scriptures, which the prophets spoke, made" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2PE 01 19 sjd3 0 you do well to pay attention to it Peter instructs the believers to pay close attention to the prophetic message.
2PE 01 19 xt8i figs-simile 0 as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns Peter compares the prophetic word to a lamp that gives light in the dark until light comes in the morning. The coming of morning is a reference to Christ's coming. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2PE 01 19 kc3l figs-metaphor 0 the morning star rises in your hearts Peter speaks of Christ as the "morning star," which indicates that daybreak and the end of darkness is near. Christ will bring light into the hearts of believers, ending all doubt and bringing full understanding of who he is. Here "hearts" is a metonym for people's minds. Alternate translation: "Christ shines his light into your hearts like the morning star shines its light into the world" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2PE 01 19 bl8s 0 the morning star The "morning star" refers to the planet Venus, which sometimes rises just before the sun and indicates that daybreak is near.
2PE 01 20 wcn9 0 Above all, you must understand "Most importantly, you must understand"
2PE 01 20 s4k2 0 no prophecy comes from someone's own interpretation Possible meanings are 1) the prophets did not make their prophecies on their own or 2) people must rely on the Holy Spirit to understand the prophecies or 3) people must interpret the prophecies with the help of the entire Christian community of believers.
2PE 01 21 mh2s figs-metaphor 0 men spoke from God when they were carried along by the Holy Spirit Peter speaks of the Holy Spirit helping the prophets to write what God wanted them to write as if the Holy Spirit was carrying them from one place to another. Alternate translation: "men spoke from God as the Holy Spirit directed them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 intro mv79 0 # 2 Peter 02 General Notes<br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Flesh<br><br>"Flesh" is a metaphor for a person's sinful nature. It is not the physical part of man that is sinful. "Flesh" represents the human nature that rejects all things godly and desires what is sinful. This is the condition of all humans before they receive the Holy Spirit by believing in Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]])<br><br>##### Implicit information<br>There are several analogies in 2:4-8 that are difficult to understand if the Old Testament has not yet been translated. Further explanation may be necessary. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
2PE 02 01 us8u 0 General Information: Peter begins to warn the believers about false teachers.
2PE 02 01 l2cg 0 False prophets came to the people, and false teachers will also come to you Just as false prophets came deceiving Israel with their words, so will false teachers come teaching lies about Christ.
2PE 02 01 tbz8 0 destructive heresies The word "heresies" refers to opinions that are contrary to the teaching of Christ and the apostles. These heresies destroy the faith of those who believe them.
2PE 02 01 g99z figs-metaphor 0 the master who bought them The word "master" here refers to a person who owns slaves. Peter speaks of Jesus as the owner of people whom he has bought, the price being his death. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2PE 02 02 z53e 0 sensuality immoral sexual behavior
2PE 02 02 nzx7 figs-activepassive 0 the way of truth will be blasphemed The phrase "way of truth" refers to the Christian faith as the true path to God. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "unbelievers will blaspheme the way of truth" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 02 03 dl1k 0 exploit you with deceptive words "convince you to give them money by telling you lies"
2PE 02 03 k359 figs-personification 0 their condemnation has not been idle, and their destruction is not asleep Peter speaks of "condemnation" and "destruction" as if they are persons who act. The two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize how soon the false teachers will be condemned. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2PE 02 03 c57u figs-doublenegatives 0 their condemnation has not been idle, and their destruction is not asleep You can translate these phrases with verbs in positive terms. Alternate translation: "God will soon condemn them; he is ready to destroy them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2PE 02 04 pr13 0 did not spare "did not refrain from punishing" or "punished"
2PE 02 04 b54v translate-names 0 he handed them down to Tartarus The word "Tartarus" is a term from Greek religion that refers to the place where evil spirits and wicked men who have died are punished. Alternate translation: "he cast them into hell" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2PE 02 04 h7uj figs-activepassive 0 to be kept in chains of lower darkness This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "where he will keep them in chains of lower darkness" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 02 04 uzy2 figs-metaphor 0 in chains of lower darkness Possible meanings are 1) "in chains in a very dark place" or 2) "in very deep darkness that imprisons them like chains." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 04 c2ak 0 until the judgment This refers to the day of judgment when God will judge every person.
2PE 02 05 hpv7 figs-metonymy 0 he did not spare the ancient world Here the word "world" refers to the people who lived in it. Alternate translation: "he did not spare the people who lived in the ancient world" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2PE 02 05 iw5v 0 he preserved Noah ... along with seven others God did not destroy Noah and seven other people when he destroyed the rest of the people who lived in the ancient world.
2PE 02 06 gp3e 0 reduced the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes "burned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah with fire until only ashes remained"
2PE 02 06 reg3 0 condemned them to destruction Here the word "them" refers to Sodom and Gomorrah and the people who lived in them.
2PE 02 06 hgt7 0 as an example of what is to happen to the ungodly Sodom and Gomorrah serve as an example and a warning of what will happen to others who disobey God.
2PE 02 07 k79d 0 the sensual behavior of lawless people "the immoral behavior of people who broke God's law"
2PE 02 08 b1ba 0 that righteous man This refers to Lot.
2PE 02 08 hpi4 figs-synecdoche 0 was tormented in his righteous soul Here the word "soul" refers to Lot's thoughts and emotions. The immoral behavior of the citizens of Sodom and Gomorrah disturbed him emotionally. Alternate translation: "was greatly disturbed" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2PE 02 10 c9e5 0 This is especially true The word "this" refers to God keeping unrighteous men in prison until judgment day in [2 Peter 2:9](../02/09.md).
2PE 02 10 eb1k 0 those who continue in the corrupt desires of the flesh Here the phrase "desires of the flesh" refers to the desires of the sinful nature. Alternate translation: "those who continue to indulge their corrupt, sinful desires"
2PE 02 10 axr4 0 despise authority "refuse to submit to God's authority." Here the word "authority" probably refers to God's authority.
2PE 02 10 n7n8 figs-metonymy 0 authority Here "authority" stands for God, who has the right to give commands and to punish disobedience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2PE 02 10 esb2 0 self-willed "do whatever they want to do"
2PE 02 10 s7l1 0 the glorious ones This phrase refers to spiritual beings, such as angels or demons.
2PE 02 11 u2jk 0 greater strength and power "more strength and power than the false teachers"
2PE 02 11 v1qt 0 they do not bring insulting judgments against them The word "they" refers to angels. Possible meanings for the word "them" are 1) the glorious ones or 2) the false teachers.
2PE 02 11 zi6p figs-metaphor 0 bring insulting judgments against them The idea that angels could accuse them is spoken of as if they could attack them using accusations as weapons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 12 y4bl figs-metaphor 0 these unreasoning animals are naturally made for capture and destruction. Just as animals cannot reason, these men cannot be reasoned with. Alternate translation: "these false teachers are like unreasoning animals who are made to be captured and destroyed" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 12 ipd4 0 They do not know what they insult They speak evil of what they do not know or understand.
2PE 02 12 jw8d figs-activepassive 0 They will be destroyed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will destroy them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 02 13 p7g7 figs-irony 0 They will receive the reward of their wrongdoing Peter speaks of the punishment that the false teachers will receive as if it were a reward. Alternate translation: "They will receive what they deserve for their wrongdoing" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2PE 02 13 e62s 0 luxury during the day Here the word "luxury" refers to immoral activity that includes gluttony, drunkenness, and sexual activity. Doing these things during the day indicates that these people are not ashamed of this behavior.
2PE 02 13 u1rc figs-metaphor 0 They are stains and blemishes The words "stains" and "blemishes" share similar meanings. Peter speaks of the false teachers as if they were stains on a garment that cause shame for those who wear it. Alternate translation: "They are like stains and blemishes on clothes, which cause disgrace" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2PE 02 14 v7t4 figs-metonymy 0 They have eyes full of adultery Here the "eyes" represent their desires and "eyes full" means they constant want something. Alternate translation: "They constantly want to commit adultery" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2PE 02 14 a22r 0 they are never satisfied with sin Although they sin in order to satisfy their lusts, the sin that they commit never satisfies.
2PE 02 14 wt89 figs-synecdoche 0 They entice unstable souls Here the word "souls" refers to persons. Alternate translation: "They entice unstable people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2PE 02 14 c55u figs-metonymy 0 hearts trained in covetousness Here the word "hearts" refers to the thoughts and emotions of the person. Because of their habitual actions, they have trained themselves to think and act out of covetousness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2PE 02 15 et62 0 They have abandoned the right way and have wandered off to follow "These false teachers have abandoned the right way and have gone astray to follow." The false teachers have refused to be obedient to God because they have rejected what is right.
2PE 02 15 ky5q figs-metaphor 0 the right way Right behavior that honors God is spoken of as if it were a path to follow. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 16 z37w figs-abstractnouns 0 he obtained a rebuke You can specify it was God who rebuked Balaam. Alternate translation: "God rebuked him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2PE 02 16 g9dr 0 a mute donkey speaking in a human voice A donkey, which is naturally unable to speak, spoke with a voice like a human.
2PE 02 16 tf38 figs-metonymy 0 stopped the prophet's insanity God used a donkey to stop the prophet's foolish action. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2PE 02 17 t137 figs-metaphor 0 These men are springs without water Springs flowing with water promise refreshment for thirsty people, but "springs without water" will leave the thirsty disappointed. In the same way, false teachers, although they promise many things, are unable to do what they promise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 17 hzu1 figs-metaphor 0 mists driven by a storm When people see storm clouds, they expect rain to fall. When the winds from the storm blow the clouds away before the rain can fall, the people are disappointed. In the same way, false teachers, although they promise many things, are unable to do what they promise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 17 xe3y figs-activepassive 0 The gloom of thick darkness is reserved for them The word "them" refers to the false teachers. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has reserved the gloom of thick darkness for them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 02 18 cxt8 0 They speak with vain arrogance They use impressive but meaningless words.
2PE 02 18 f8tg 0 They entice people through the lusts of the flesh They appeal to the sinful nature to engage people in immoral and sinful actions.
2PE 02 18 nks3 figs-explicit 0 people who try to escape from those who live in error This phrase refers to people who recently became believers. The phrase "those who live in error" refers to unbelievers who still live in sin. Alternate translation: "people who try to live rightly, instead of living sinfully as they used to and as other people do" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2PE 02 18 jec8 figs-metaphor 0 people who try to escape Peter speaks of people who live sinfully as if they are slaves to sin who need to be released from their captivity. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 19 uyw6 figs-metaphor 0 They promise freedom to them, but they themselves are slaves of corruption "Freedom" here is an idiom for the ability to live exactly as one wants. Alternate translation: "They promise to give them the ability to live exactly as they want to live, but they themselves cannot escape their own sinful desires" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 19 v5tt figs-metaphor 0 promise freedom ... slaves of corruption Peter speaks of people who live sinfully as if they are slaves to sin who need to be released from their captivity. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 19 b79v figs-metaphor 0 For a man is a slave to whatever overcomes him Peter speaks of a person as a slave when anything has control over that person, and that thing as the master of that person. Alternate translation: "For if something has control over a person, that person becomes like a slave to that thing" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 20 q96i 0 If they have escaped ... and are again entangled ... and overcome, the last state has become worse ... than the first This sentence is a description of a conditional statement that is true. The false teachers had at one time "escaped," but if they are again entangled ... and overcome," then "the last state has become worse ... than the first."
2PE 02 20 lu22 figs-metonymy 0 the corruption of the world The word "defilements" refers to sinful behavior that makes one morally impure. The "world" refers to human society. Alternate translation: "the defiling practices of sinful human society" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2PE 02 20 bi73 figs-abstractnouns 0 through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ You can translate "knowledge" using a verbal phrase. See how you translated similar phrases in [2 Peter 1:2](../01/02.md). Alternate translation: "by knowing the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2PE 02 20 d42g 0 the last state has become worse for them than the first "their condition is worse than it was before"
2PE 02 21 pm7b figs-metaphor 0 the way of righteousness Peter speaks of life as a "way" or path. This phrase refers to living a life that is according to God's will. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 21 ic3c figs-metaphor 0 turn away from the holy commandment Here "turn away from" is a metaphor that means to stop doing something. Alternate translation: "stop obeying the holy commandment" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 02 21 blr5 figs-activepassive 0 the holy commandment delivered to them This can be stated in active terms. Alternate translation: "the holy commandment that God delivered to them" or "the holy commandment that God made sure that they received" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 02 22 hqr3 0 This proverb is true for them "This proverb applies to them" or "This proverb describes them"
2PE 02 22 h42r writing-proverbs 0 A dog returns to its own vomit, and a washed pig returns to the mud Peter uses two proverbs to illustrate how the false teachers, although they have known "the way of righteousness," have turned back to the things that make them morally and spiritually impure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs]])
2PE 03 intro c1id 0 # 2 Peter 03 General Notes<br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Fire<br>People often use fire to destroy things or to make something pure by burning off the dirt and worthless parts. Therefore when God punishes the wicked or purifies his people, it is often associated with fire. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fire]])<br><br>##### Day of the Lord<br>The exact time of the coming day of the Lord will come as a surprise to people. This is what the simile "like a thief in the night" means. Because of this, Christians are to be prepared for the coming of the Lord. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])<br>
2PE 03 01 n92f 0 General Information: Peter begins to talk about the last days.
2PE 03 01 gc3m figs-metaphor 0 to stir up your sincere mind Peter speaks of causing his readers to think about these things as if he were waking them from sleep. Alternate translation: "to cause you to think pure thoughts" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 03 02 gxj7 figs-activepassive 0 the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the words that the holy prophets spoke in the past" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 02 yhi7 figs-activepassive 0 the command of our Lord and Savior given through your apostles This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the command of our Lord and Savior, which your apostles gave to you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 03 lm1a 0 Know this first "Know this as the most important thing." See how you translated this in [2 Peter 1:20](../01/20.md).
2PE 03 03 znh2 figs-explicit 0 proceed according to their own desires Here the word "desires" refers to sinful desires that are opposed to God's will. Alternate translation: "live according to their own sinful desires" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2PE 03 03 hl23 0 proceed act, behave
2PE 03 04 zrj7 figs-rquestion 0 Where is the promise of his return? The mockers ask this rhetorical question to emphasize that they do not believe that Jesus will return. The word "promise" refers to the fulfillment of the promise that Jesus will return. Alternate translation: "The promise that Jesus would return is not true! He will not return!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2PE 03 04 t6hl figs-euphemism 0 our fathers fell asleep Here "fathers" refers to ancestors who lived long ago. Falling asleep is a euphemism for dying. Alternate translation: "our ancestors died" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2PE 03 04 c2en figs-hyperbole 0 all things have stayed the same, since the beginning of creation The mockers exaggerate with the word "all", and they argue that since nothing in the world has ever changed, it cannot be true that Jesus will return. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2PE 03 04 yue7 figs-abstractnouns 0 since the beginning of creation This can be translated as a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "since God created the world" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2PE 03 05 mku9 figs-activepassive 0 the heavens and the earth came to exist ... long ago, by God's command This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God established the heavens and the earth ... long ago by his word" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 05 s77f 0 came to exist out of water and through water This means that God caused the land to come up out of the water, gathering the bodies of water together to make the land appear.
2PE 03 06 jh4r 0 through these things Here "these things" refers to God's word and water.
2PE 03 06 nyb7 figs-activepassive 0 the world of that time was destroyed, being flooded with water This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God flooded the world that existed at that time with water and destroyed it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 07 b2in figs-activepassive 0 the heavens and the earth are reserved for fire by that same command This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God, by that same word, has reserved the heavens and the earth for fire" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 07 e673 0 that same command Here "command" stands for God, who will give the command: AT "God, who will give a similar command"
2PE 03 07 jl5d figs-activepassive 0 They are reserved for the day of judgment This can be stated in active form and can begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: "He is reserving them for the day of judgment" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 07 y3gg figs-abstractnouns 0 for the day of judgment and the destruction of the ungodly people This can be stated with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: "for the day when he judges and destroys ungodly people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2PE 03 08 s5cy 0 It should not escape your notice "You should not fail to understand this" or "Do not ignore this"
2PE 03 08 enh9 0 that one day with the Lord is like a thousand years "that from the Lord's point of view, one day is like a thousand years"
2PE 03 09 zv9m 0 The Lord does not move slowly concerning his promises "The Lord does not move slowly to fulfill his promises"
2PE 03 09 dzq8 0 as some consider slowness to be Some people think that the Lord is slow to fulfill his promises because their perspective of time is different than God's.
2PE 03 10 w6ma 0 However Although the Lord is being patient and wants people to repent, he will indeed return and bring judgment.
2PE 03 10 c5m1 figs-personification 0 the day of the Lord will come as a thief Peter speaks of the day when God will judge everyone as if it were a thief who will unexpectedly and take people by surprise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2PE 03 10 k31z 0 The heavens will pass away "The heavens will disappear"
2PE 03 10 z32k figs-activepassive 0 The elements will be burned with fire This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will burn the elements with fire" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 10 zgd3 0 The elements Possible meanings are 1) the heavenly bodies, such as the sun, moon, and stars or 2) the things that make up heaven and earth, such as soil, air, fire, and water.
2PE 03 10 j1gj figs-activepassive 0 the earth and the deeds in it will be revealed God will see all the earth and all the deeds of everyone, and he will then judge everything. This can be stated in active terms. Alternate translation: "God will expose the earth and everything that people have done on it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 11 nq63 figs-activepassive 0 Since all these things will be destroyed in this way This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Since God will destroy all these things in this way" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 11 t8wx figs-rquestion 0 what kind of people should you be? Peter uses this rhetorical question to emphasize what he will say next, that they "should live holy and godly lives." Alternate translation: "you know what kind of people you should be." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2PE 03 12 rq9g figs-activepassive 0 the heavens will be destroyed by fire, and the elements will be melted in great heat This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will destroy the heavens by fire, and he will melt the elements in great heat" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 12 v15i 0 the elements Possible meanings are 1) the heavenly bodies, such as the sun, moon, and stars or 2) the things that make up heaven and earth, such as soil, air, fire, and water. See how you translated this in [2 Peter 3:10](../03/10.md).
2PE 03 13 df3v figs-personification 0 where righteousness will dwell Peter speaks of "righteousness" as if it were a person. This is a metonym for people who are righteous. Alternate translation: "where righteous people will dwell" or "where people will live righteously" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2PE 03 14 fj1l figs-activepassive 0 do your best to be found spotless and blameless before him, in peace This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "do your best to live in a way so that God will find you spotless and blameless, and be at peace with him and each other" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 14 s141 figs-doublet 0 spotless and blameless The words "spotless" and "blameless" mean basically the same thing and emphasize moral purity. Alternate translation: "completely pure" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2PE 03 14 byr8 figs-metaphor 0 spotless Here this stands for "faultless." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 03 15 g35u figs-explicit 0 consider the patience of our Lord to be salvation Because the Lord is patient, the day of judgment has not yet happened. This gives people an opportunity to repent and be saved, as he explained in [2 Peter 3:9](../03/09.md). Alternate translation: "Also, think about the patience of our Lord as giving you an opportunity to repent and be saved" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2PE 03 15 nnd7 figs-activepassive 0 according to the wisdom that was given to him This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "according to the wisdom that God gave to him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 16 wil1 0 Paul speaks of these things in all his letters "Paul speaks of the patience of God leading to salvation in all his letters"
2PE 03 16 z4cj 0 in which there are things that are difficult to understand There are things in Paul's letters that are difficult to understand.
2PE 03 16 dt6r 0 Ignorant and unstable men distort these things Ignorant and unstable men misinterpret the things that are difficult to understand in Paul's letters.
2PE 03 16 giz1 0 Ignorant and unstable "Unlearned and unsteady." These men have not been taught how to properly interpret scripture and are not well established in the truth of the gospel.
2PE 03 16 sh4j 0 to their own destruction "resulting in their own destruction"
2PE 03 17 t1gd 0 since you know about these things "These things" refers to the truths about the patience of God and the teachings of these false teachers.
2PE 03 17 h2ik figs-metaphor 0 so that you are not led astray by the deceit of lawless people Here "led astray" is a metaphor for being persuaded to do something wrong. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "so that lawless people do not deceive you and cause you do something wrong" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2PE 03 17 w3sp figs-metaphor 0 you lose your own faithfulness Faithfulness is spoken of as if it were a possession that believers could lose. Alternate translation: "you stop being faithful" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2PE 03 18 lk3c figs-metaphor 0 grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Here growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord represents experiencing his grace more and knowing him more. The abstract noun "grace" can be expressed with the phrase "act kindly." Alternate translation: "receive more of the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and know him more" or "be more aware of how our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ acts kindly toward you, and know him better" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
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