Four times in this final chapter Peter emphasized what he had said by the words "beloved" or "dear friends". The word is similar to "agape", the New Testament word for love. In verse1 Peter says, "I want you to think about, I want you to remember what has been said by the prophets and by Christ Himself." In verse 8, "Don't forget how God looks at time. It is very different to our concept of it." In verse 14, Peter's reminder is, "live in the light of Christ's possible return at any moment." In verse 17, Peter's final words to his brethren in Christ are, "Be on your guard. You know about false teachers. You know about Christ's return. Hold on to what you know." Peter is still emphasizing the truth of the Word of God. There will be those who will scoff at it, especially the fact of Christ's second coming. He states plainly God will fulfill His promise and in His time Christ will come. Peter also speaks of the wonderful grace and the continuing desire of God (v.9). God does not want anyone to be lost. He wants them to come to repentance now so that He can save them before it is too late. If a person is eternally lost, it is not because God wants it, but because he or she has chosen his or her own way instead of God's. He or she cannot blame God. This is both encouraging and saddening. It is a comfort to those who are praying for the salvation of loved ones. God is on your side. He wants what you want. God is doing all he can to bring them to repentance. Hold on your praying. It may be "all you can do" but God wants their salvation too. Pray on. God is faithful and you will see the answer to your prayers. |
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