2 Peter 1:16
We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
Truth to Learn
Christ’s glorious return is not a wishful, made-up story. It is a promise from Christ himself, attested to by angels.
Behind the Words
“Follow” is from the Greek word exakoloutheō, which is a compound word made up of ek, meaning “out” but used here as an intensifier and akoloutheō, meaning “to follow.” This word has the meaning of “to follow carefully, to pursue, or to precisely copy.”
The words “cleverly invented” come from a form of the Greek word sophidzō, meaning “to make wise” or “to devise skillfully.” It refers to something that is carefully crafted with the skill of a wise master craftsman.
The word “stories” is translated from muthos, from which we get our English word myth. This Greek word means, “that which is fabricated by the mind in contrast to reality.”
“Power” is translated from dunamis, from which we get our English word dynamite. Although our English word “power” implies strength in action, this Greek word literally means “possessing great ability.”
The word translated “majesty” is megaleiotēs, which is based on the word megas, meaning “great” or “big.” In this form it means “greatness.”
Meaning Explained
One of the foundational truths, characteristic of Peter’s ministry, is the fact that Jesus Christ will return soon. This is a doctrine that was preached by all the apostles and is one that was ridiculed by detractors of Christianity from the very beginning. In response to this opposition and by way of emphasizing the points he has been making since the beginning of this letter, Peter now offers evidence of why he believes so strongly that Christ will, indeed, return again soon.
He opens this verse saying that he and the others have not been carefully following cleverly crafted stories, or myths. That is, the stories of Christ’s resurrection and His coming again are not made-up at all. Peter’s belief in Christ’s return is based on personal experience (he saw Jesus’ glory) and the promise from our Savior that He would return.
Peter says that they did not make up these stories; instead, he says that “we were eyewitnesses ….” He is referring to the time when he actually experienced the majesty of Jesus Christ when He was transformed before him on the mountain top.
Because Peter had personally experienced this event, the majesty and glorious splendor of the Savior, he was absolutely convinced of Christ’s promised return. He tells us that this return will not simply be a casual experience any more than the one that he witnessed. Peter refers to it as, “the power and coming or our Lord.” In fact, Christ’s return will be with such a demonstration of power that no one will be able to deny it.
Application
Do you believe Christ’s return will be soon? Will you be ready when He does? Are you ready right now?
It could be today!
In God’s service, for His glory,
Copyright © 2009 Will Krause. All rights reserved.
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