2 Peter 3:3

“Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts”

Context and Background:The book of 2 Peter was written by the apostle Peter, who addresses it to believers in various regions. The primary theme of 2 Peter is to encourage believers in their faith and warn them about false teachers and their destructive influence. In chapter 3, Peter focuses on the return of Jesus Christ and the skepticism surrounding His second coming.

Understanding the Verse:

• “Knowing this first”: Peter begins by emphasising the importance of the following information. He wants his readers to grasp this truth before considering anything else.
• “that there shall come in the last days scoffers”: Peter predicts the emergence of scoffers, or mockers, in the last days. These individuals will ridicule and deride the teachings of Christianity and the concept of Christ’s return. The “last days” refer to the period between Christ’s first and second coming, which encompasses the time from the early church to His return.
• “walking after their own lusts”: The scoffers mentioned by Peter will not only mock the idea of Christ’s return but also live according to their own selfish desires. They will prioritise fulfilling their own sinful passions and pursue a lifestyle that opposes God’s principles.
• Key Themes and Lessons:
• The Reality of Scoffers:Peter acknowledges the presence of scoffers in the last days. Their existence should not be surprising or discouraging to believers. Instead, it serves as a reminder of the opposition and challenges faced by the Christian faith.
• The Importance of Spiritual Discernment:Peter’s use of the phrase “knowing this first” emphasises the need for believers to be aware and discerning. Understanding the presence of scoffers and their motives equips Christians to stand firm in their faith and respond with wisdom.

• Living Counter-Culturally:The mention of scoffers who walk after their own lusts highlights the contrast between the worldly values of self-indulgence and the call to live a life aligned with God’s will. Believers are encouraged to resist the pressures of the world and pursue righteousness and godliness.

Application:

• Strengthening Our Faith:As believers, we can draw strength from the fact that the Bible has foretold the presence of scoffers in the last days. When faced with doubt or ridicule, we can hold fast to the truth of God’s Word and trust in the certainty of Christ’s return.
• Discernment and Knowledge:It is crucial for Christians to have a solid foundation of knowledge regarding biblical teachings and prophecies. This knowledge enables us to recognise false teachings and ideologies that contradict the Gospel, and respond with love, truth, and grace.
• Holiness and Countercultural Living:In a world driven by self-gratification and sinful desires, we are called to live differently. By aligning our lives with God’s Word, we can be a testament to the transforming power of Christ and draw others to Him.

Remember to study the surrounding verses and consult reliable commentaries or study materials to gain further insight into the broader context and teachings of 2 Peter 3.