2 Peter 3:16

As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

2 Peter 3:16 (KJV)

Context

The book of 2 Peter is a letter written by the apostle Peter, likely towards the end of his life, to encourage and warn early Christian believers. In this passage, Peter refers to the letters of the apostle Paul, acknowledging their authority and importance. He notes that Paul writes about the same subjects—the return of Christ, God’s judgment, and the need for spiritual growth and vigilance.

Meaning

Peter acknowledges that some of Paul’s writings contain deep and difficult concepts, which he describes as “some things hard to be understood.” The Greek word used here, dysnoeta, means difficult to grasp. This difficulty is not a reason to neglect Paul’s letters; rather, it calls for careful study, reflection, and guidance from the Holy Spirit. Not all parts of Scripture are equally hard—many things are plain and easy, especially those concerning salvation. There is “milk for babes” as well as “meat for strong men.“

Peter warns that those who are “unlearned and unstable” distort these difficult passages. The word “unlearned” (amatheis) does not mean lacking human education but lacking the learning imparted by the Spirit. The “unstable” (asteriktoi) are those not yet established in what they have learned, shaken by every seeming difficulty and hasty to adopt distorted views instead of waiting for God’s Spirit to make them plain.

The word “wrest” (streblousin) means to strain, twist, or distort, like using a hand screw to twist something straight. Peter says these people twist Paul’s letters “as they do also the other scriptures,” indicating that Paul’s writings were already accepted as Scripture alongside other sacred writings. The result of such twisting is “their own destruction“—a warning that misinterpreting Scripture leads to ruin.

Biblical connections

Peter’s warning echoes the broader biblical principle that Scripture must be interpreted in light of its entirety, ensuring harmony and consistency. This verse also affirms the divine origin and authority of Paul’s writings, placing them on par with the Old Testament Scriptures.

Application

This verse underscores the importance of handling Scripture carefully and responsibly. It encourages believers to diligently study the Word of God, seek guidance from the Holy Spirit, and avoid distorting or misusing its teachings. By approaching the Bible with humility and a teachable heart, we can grow in our knowledge of God and faithfully follow His truth.

Reflection

Peter’s warning is not a prohibition against ordinary believers reading Scripture. Instead, it is a call to read with reverence, dependence on the Spirit, and a desire to know and practice the truth. The difficulty of some passages should drive us to deeper study, not away from it.