Name
The title “2 Peter ” comes from the author Peter who identifies himself in 1:1. His given name was Cephas, but Jesus changed his name to Peter (John 1:42). Both names mean “rock” or “stone.”
Author
Simeon (Simon) Peter, a slave and an apostle of Christ, identifies himself as the author in 1:1. Additional internal evidence includes personal details of Peter’s life: he was an eye witness to the transfiguration (1:16-18), he quoted the Words from heaven at the transfiguration (1: 17), he referred to his previous letter (3:1), and referred to Paul as a “dear brother” (3:15).
Some scholars doubt Peter was the author claiming, among other things, that the writing style is different between the two letters, indicating two authors. However, 1 Peter was written with Silvanus’s help, his secretary, whereas 2 Peter was not. This could easily explain the differences in writing style.
External evidence comes from Jude’s book, written after 2 Peter. Jude adapts 2 Peter. Additionally, Origen and Methodius also quote 2 Peter attributing the book to Peter.
Genre
General Epistle
Literary Form
The epistle of 2 Peter is a “testament” in the form of a letter. A testament was a document delivering the final instructions from a dying man.
Time Frame
Peter likely wrote the epistle shortly before his death in A.D. 67, perhaps around A.D. 66 or early 67.
Emphasis
Peter’s intended audience appears to be composed of both Jewish and Gentile Christians. Knowing his time was short (he anticipated his death), his main concern is they be on guard against false teachers. He considered them to be in immediate danger and wanted them to be refreshed in their understanding of the importance of being a mature believer, to grow in grace and their knowledge of Christ, and His return.
Outline
- Salutation (1:1-2)
- Exhortation to develop Christian character (1:3-21)
- The prediction of false teachers (2:1-22)
- The Christian’s hope of the Lord’s return (3:1-16)
- Conclusion (3:17-18)
