2 Peter 1:12-21, REMINDERS of God’s word

This passage begins by saying for this reason.  We need to be growing in godliness (v5-11), using the things that God has given us (v2-4).  Thus Peter diligently reminds us (v12-15) of these truths, truths based in his eyewitness account of the life of Christ (v16-18), and thus producing an account that is inspired by the Holy Spirit (v19-21).

There is an interesting manuscript issue in 2 Pt. 1:12.  The KJV and NKJV, based on the Textus Receptus manuscript, read, I will not be negligent to remind you always.  Most newer translations, based on the Critical Text, read, I will always be ready to remind you.  The difference is the letter “a” at the beginning of the word.  The “a” makes it negative so “careful” becomes “careless” or “negligent.” The two manuscript traditions say the same thing but one puts it in the negative and the other the positive.  

We mention this as we come to this passage to demonstrate the accuracy of the Bible.  We believe that the original writings were inspired by God with the result that every word was exactly as God intended.  None of these originals are in existence but there is more manuscript authority for the Bible than any ancient writing.  What we have, even with these kinds of variations, is accurately called The Word of God.  We believe this to be the result of our faithful God who not only made sure by inspiration that the human authors recorded His word, but also by preservation He made sure His word has been passed on to every generation.

Let us consider both “negligence” and “diligence” by a simple word study.

·        Issues of “negligence.”  Jesus said the hireling neglected the sheep (John 10:13).  The judge named Gallio in Corinth did not care to make a judgment concerning spiritual issues (Acts 18:17).  Paul urged Timothy not to neglect his calling (1 Tim. 4:14).  Hebrews cautions us not to neglect our great salvation provided through Christ (Heb. 2:3).  Peter did not neglect any of these things.  He cared deeply for the sheep, reminding them of important spiritual matters; being faithful to his calling as an Apostle; and speaking of matters fundamental to our salvation. 

·        Issues of “diligence.”  Paul was diligent to spend time with believers all over the New Testament world (e.g. 1 Thess. 2:17).  He also encouraged Timothy to be diligent to study the word of God (2 Tim. 2:15).  Peter was being diligent here.  He believed he was near death, or as he calls it, his decease (Greek exodus, literally departing from the pilgrim way).  Peter speaks openly here about what Jesus had said to him, referring to Peter as dying the death of a martyr (Jn. 21:18-19).  Peter was diligent to always remind them (v12) and in such a way (by writing it down) that they had it even after he was gone (v15).  Peter was faithful to his calling!

Reminders are important.  One of the greatest impediments to learning is the comment, I already knew that.  In pride we often oppose being told something we already know.  But the Holy Spirit knows that even people who know and are established in the present truth (v12) need to be reminded.  Let us be open to being reminded.  Let us not be those who always want their ears tickled with things that are always new and exciting.  Let us thank God for His reminders.