What does 2 Peter 1:14 mean?

Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me. 2 Peter 1:14

Explanation

2 Peter 1:14 speaks of the apostle Peter’s anticipation of his impending death, which he refers to metaphorically as the laying aside of his “tabernacle,” meaning his physical body. The word “tabernacle” here is reminiscent of the temporary dwelling place used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness, as recorded in the Old Testament. Just as the tabernacle was not a permanent structure, Peter sees his body as a temporary vessel. The phrase “even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me” references an earlier revelation given to Peter by Jesus Christ concerning the manner of Peter’s death that would glorify God, which is mentioned in the Gospel of John (John 21:18-19). Peter conveys a sense of peace and acceptance of this revelation, continuing to confirm the reliability of his teachings given his imminent departure.

Historical Context

2 Peter is traditionally understood to have been written by the Apostle Peter, although some scholars debate its authorship. This epistle is believed to have been composed near the end of Peter’s life, around A.D. 64–68, not long before his martyrdom under the Emperor Nero’s persecution of Christians in Rome. The historical context includes the early challenges faced by the Christian church, such as false teachings and persecution.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse addresses Christian eschatology (the study of ‘end things’), mortality, and the transitory nature of human life in contrast to eternal life. Similarly, it reinforces the concept of apostolic authority, as Peter references a personal revelation from Jesus regarding his death, which bolsters his teachings and admonishments found within the epistle.

Practical Applications

The practical application of 2 Peter 1:14 is in the recognition of life’s temporary nature and the call for Christians to live with an awareness of impending mortality and the eventual transition to eternal life. It encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to value the teachings of the apostles, who had first-hand experiences with Christ and drew from divine revelations.

Cross-References

• John 21:18-19: “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdest thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:1: “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”
• 2 Timothy 4:6: “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.”

Language Study

The key terms in this verse are “tabernacle” (Greek: σκηνώματί, skēnōmati), which refers to a dwelling or tent, often associated with temporary residence, and “put off” (Greek: ἀποθέσθαι, apothesesthai), which means to lay aside or discard. These terms together underline the impermanent nature of the physical body and life on earth.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, including the Greco-Roman world, there were various beliefs about the afterlife and the nature of the physical body. Some believed in the immortality of the soul and the transitory state of the body, a concept also reflected in this verse. In Judaic tradition, the metaphor of the “tabernacle” connects to the idea of God dwelling with his people during their desert wanderings, symbolizing God’s presence with mankind.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science delineates between life and death through biological functions, yet it does not typically address the spiritual belief in life beyond death. The verse speaks to a metaphysical understanding of existence that offers a perspective on life that transcends physical death, something not analyzed in empirical scientific studies.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians interpret 2 Peter 1:14 with a consensus on the authenticity of Peter’s vulnerably human reflection on his approaching death. They often emphasize Peter’s foresight and acceptance of his martyrdom, as well as the intention to encourage the early Christian community through his assurance that their faith is rooted in the eyewitness testimony of the apostles. The reaffirmation of Jesus’ prophecy about Peter’s death is cited as a testament to the trustworthiness of Peter’s teachings and his prophetic authority.