What does 2 Peter 1:12 mean?

Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. 2 Peter 1:12

Explanation

2 Peter 1:12 is an exhortation from the Apostle Peter to his readers, reminding them of the importance of remembering and adhering to the teachings they have already received. These “things” likely refer to the core Christian doctrines and moral instruction that are foundational to their faith. Peter suggests that his audience is already knowledgeable and firm in their understanding (“established in the present truth”), but emphasizes that it is crucial to continually reinforce these truths in their hearts and minds.

Peter’s insistence on remembrance suggests that the knowledge of the truth is not a one-time event but an ongoing process of reinforcement. The phrase “present truth” implies that Peter’s message is both current and relevant, indicating an active relationship with the teachings rather than an obsolete tradition. This verse highlights the pastoral nature of Peter’s leadership, showing his care and commitment to ensuring the perseverance of the believers in their faith journey.

Historical Context

2 Peter was written toward the end of Peter’s life, probably around 64-68 AD, a time when the early Christian communities faced internal and external challenges, including false teachings and widespread persecution under the Roman Empire. The letter’s primary purpose was to encourage believers to continue in their faith, grow in virtue, and beware of false teachers who were distorting the gospel.

Peter may have seen the need to reinforce the teaching because of his impending death, which he alludes to in 2 Peter 1:14. Knowing the community would soon be without his direct guidance, he wanted to leave them with a strong reminder to hold onto the truths they were taught.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse could be viewed from different perspectives. From an evangelical viewpoint, the emphasis is on the authority of the apostolic teaching as the foundation for faith and practice. It underscores the concept of “Sola Scriptura,” where Scripture alone is the definitive source of truth.

A Catholic perspective might highlight the continuation of apostolic tradition and the role of ongoing teaching authority in reinforcing and interpreting truths of faith. Thus, this verse supports the necessity of teaching and preaching within the church to maintain sound doctrine.

A liberal theological approach might focus on the idea of an evolving understanding of truth, with “present truth” signifying a dynamic, living faith that must adapt to contemporary contexts.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse encourages believers to engage in regular reflection and study of their faith, understanding that spiritual forgetfulness can lead to complacency or vulnerability to false teachings. Believers are called to mutual edification, urging one another to remain steadfast and rooted in their faith.

The concept of “present truth” can also lead to the practice of contextual theology, which applies the timeless truths of Christianity to the specific needs and questions of the current generation, helping to ensure the faith remains relevant and impactful.

Cross-References

• 2 Timothy 1:13: “Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.”
• Hebrews 2:1: “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.”
• Jude 1:3: “Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.”

Language Study

The key phrase “established in the present truth” in the original Greek is “bebaioi en tē parouse alētheia.” “Bebaioi” suggests a firm foundation or steadiness; “parouse” indicates something that is at hand or currently with the believer; and “alētheia” means truth or reality. Peter is effectively emphasizing the need to be firmly grounded in the truth already received and to continually reinforce it, as it is applicable and necessary for the current time.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The Greco-Roman culture surrounding early Christianity valued philosophical knowledge and the pursuit of truth. However, Christian truth claims were often exclusive and sometimes in opposition to the pluralistic religious environment. This verse emphasizes the distinct and enduring nature of Christian truth compared to the shifting ideas found in the surrounding culture.

Similar to Jewish traditions that called for the regular recitation and remembrance of the Law and God’s works, Christianity also held the conviction that continual remembrance of key teachings was essential for spiritual life.

Scientific Perspectives

The exhortation to remember teachings could be supported by findings in cognitive psychology, which emphasize the importance of repetition and continuous exposure in creating long-term memories. In this sense, the practice of regular reflection on spiritual truths could be likened to the reinforcement needed for any learning process, ensuring that important beliefs and values are maintained over time.

Commentaries

• The Pulpit Commentary notes that Peter is pressing upon his readers the necessity of remembering the truths taught by the Apostles, understanding that constant recollection and application are vital for spiritual life.
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary suggests that Peter, seeing his own death approaching, has a fervent desire to secure the stability of the believers in the true Christian faith.
• The Expositor’s Greek Testament observes that Peter is not just providing information but ensuring that the life and power of the truths taught are experienced and acted upon by the readers.