I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly tent to stir you up with a reminder.
Truth to Learn
We need to keep encouraging each other to stay the course because we haven’t much time left.
Behind the Words
“I consider” is translated from hēgeomai, which is a form of ago, meaning “to lead.” Metaphorically, this word refers to “leading out with the mind.” Therefore, it is interpreted as, “to esteem, consider, regard, or reckon.”
The word “right” comes from the Greek word dikaion, which refers to that which is “proper, right, or appropriate”
The word translated “stir … up” is diegeirō, which means “to arouse, to wake up fully, or to stir up.”
Meaning Explained
Peter is aware that he is being rather forceful in his admonition to us all regarding the necessity of Christian growth and maturity. He has used very strong words to urge us on in this regard, but he is not apologetic regarding his words. He says that it is right for him to do this. He believes that he has a responsibility to be constantly reminding us all that we need to be continually working on becoming more mature in our Christian experience.
Specifically, Peter feels that he is obliged to stir up our memory. We all have a tendency to get lazy and careless regarding our walk with the Lord, and Peter feels compelled, as we all should, to grab us by the shoulder and wake us up. He does so by reminding us of those things that we already know. Anyone who has ever studied a foreign language knows how critical it is to constantly review the basic principles until they become second nature. Only after we know the basics without thinking about them can we continue on to the next level with confidence.
Peter also knows that his time on this earth is coming to an end, and he feels a necessity to do as much as he can in the time he has left. When we were young, we had our whole lives ahead of us, and there was not much of a sense of urgency to do what we knew we should be doing. As we got older, we realized that time is passing us by, and time that has passed cannot be made up. As we recognize God’s calling on our life and realize how much He has done for us, we feel more compelled to work hard for Him in the things He expects from us. As the end of life approaches, we become acutely aware that this life is transient, and only what is done for God has any real lasting value.
That’s where Peter is right now. He wants to make the most of his remaining days by constantly reminding us to work hard for the One who has given His life for us.
Application
Let our ears not be deaf!
Let our minds not be cloudy!
Let us not be caught asleep on the watch!
Rather, let us purpose in our hearts to wake up and work diligently, for the time is fleeting, our life is short, and He is coming soon!
In God's service, for His glory,
Copyright © 2017 Will Krause. All rights reserved