What does 2 Peter 1:21 mean?

Explanation

2 Peter 1:21 is a verse that underscores the divine origin of prophecy within the Christian tradition.

It establishes that prophecy, specifically the messages found in the scriptures, does not stem from human insight or invention.

Instead, it emphasizes that the prophets were instruments through which God communicated His will to humanity.

The "holy men of God" mentioned in the verse are the prophets who delivered messages from God.

They did not speak of their own volition or personal understanding but were "moved by the Holy Ghost," implying that their words were inspired by the Holy Spirit.

This suggests that prophecy is not subject to the prophet's personal bias or error, but rather it comes from a perfect and divine source.

Historical Context

The Second Epistle of Peter is a book of the New Testament, traditionally attributed to Saint Peter the Apostle, though there is scholarly debate regarding the authorship.

This letter, composed in the first century AD, was addressed to Christians scattered across various regions, offering guidance in the face of false teachings and reminding them of the truth of Christian doctrine.

This verse fall in a larger discourse about the reliability of the message the apostles were delivering, defending it against accusations of fabrication or human origin by emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in the delivery of true prophecy.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse reinforces the doctrine of divine inspiration.

It captures the belief that the authors of scripture wrote under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, what they produced was not from their own minds, but communicated and driven by God.

This is foundational to the concept of biblical inerrancy held by some denominations, which states that the Scriptures, in their original manuscripts, are without fault in all their teachings.

From a pneumatological perspective (the study of the Holy Spirit), it shows the instrumental role of the Spirit in the revelation of God's word.

Additionally, the verse speaks to the relationship between human agency and divine sovereignty; while the prophets were active participants in the process, their message’s source and direction were ultimately divine.

Practical Applications

The verse inspires believers to approach the Scriptures with a high degree of reverence, recognizing it as inspired by God rather than human wisdom.

It suggests that individuals should not interpret prophecies based on personal biases but seek the illumination of the Holy Spirit for a clearer understanding.

Furthermore, it might encourage those who teach or preach to rely not on their own insight but to be instruments of communication for God's messages, thereby fostering humility and dependency on God's guidance.

Cross-References

• 2 Timothy 3:16: "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"
• 1 Thessalonians 2:13: "For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe."
• 2 Samuel 23:2: "The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue."

Language Study

The key phrase in this verse is "moved by the Holy Ghost." The word translated as "moved" comes from the Greek word "pheromenoi," which can mean to be carried along or to be driven.

This same verb is used in Acts 27:15 to describe a ship being carried by the wind.

The imagery suggests the prophets being under the powerful influence or direction of the Holy Spirit in a manner similar to a vessel under the control of the wind.

"Holy Ghost" translates from "Hagiou Pneumatos," where "Hagios" indicates something set apart or holy, and "Pneuma" often refers to spirit or breath, a term used throughout the New Testament to describe the third person of the Trinity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The idea that scripture is divinely inspired or revealed by a higher power is not unique to Christianity and exists in other religious traditions.

For instance, Islam holds that the Quran is the word of God as dictated to Muhammad by the angel Gabriel.

In Hinduism, the Vedas are considered apauruṣeya, meaning "not of a man" and thought to have been directly revealed to the sages (rishis).

This concept of divine communication through human agents is a common thread in many world religions.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific community typically does not weigh in on matters of divine inspiration or prophecy, as these concepts are outside the scope of scientific inquiry, which is based on empirical evidence and testability.

Therefore, 2 Peter 1:21 is typically not addressed within scientific discussions.

However, psychological and sociological studies may explore the impact of belief in divine inspiration on individuals and societies, including the role such beliefs play in community cohesion, personal conviction, and ethical behavior.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commented on this verse:

• John Calvin, the Protestant reformer, commented on the importance of this verse for understanding that the prophets were organs of the Holy Spirit, who used their tongues and pens to communicate God's will.
• Matthew Henry, an English commentator, noted the importance of recognizing that scripture is not the product of human ingenuity but the result of the Holy Spirit's influence, ensuring its truth and reliability.
• Adam Clarke, a British Methodist theologian, emphasized the significance of the phrase "moved by the Holy Ghost," likening it to a sail filled with wind, showing the power of the Spirit in guiding the prophets.