Introduction

• The author is the Holy Spirit. The writer is the apostle Peter.
• The date is uncertain, but usually thought to be about 65-70 AD.
• The purpose of the letter is to combat apostasy and false doctrine.

II Peter 1

• II Peter 1:1 – Peter first calls himself a servant of Jesus – even before noting his role as apostle. See Romans 10:1 regarding the righteousness of God.
• II Peter 1:2 – The only way to be righteous before God is through knowledge of Him.
• II Peter 1:3 – See John 16:13. Knowledge of God can only be obtained through study. It is a marvelous thought that God has called us to glory!
• II Peter 1:4 – Partaking of God’s divine nature:
  • I John 4:8; 5:1; 1:7
  • Hebrews 12:10
  • I John 2:29
  • Matthew 5:7
  • Ephesians 4:1
  • Luke 17:3 – Forgiving
  • I John 4:20 – Loving others
  • Revelation 2:10
• II Peter 1:5-7 – To show godliness, we must respect God’s word. If we have brotherly love, we will show brotherly kindness. One is the virtue, the other is the result.
• II Peter 1:8-11 – Stated positively, these things will make you effective and fruitful in God’s service. Don’t forget these things. Be diligent. If you do these things, you won’t fall. This verse shows that it is possible to fall, contradicting the doctrine of perseverance of the saints. The beginning of these qualities is appreciating the blessing of our salvation.