TRV
See on the biblical-era map
Study this verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Peter 1:12–15. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
I.The importance and advantage of progress and perseverance in grace and holiness made the apostle to be very diligent in doing the work of a minister of Christ, that he might thereby excite and assist them to be diligent in the duty of Christians. If ministers be negligent in their work, it can hardly be expected that the people will be diligent in theirs; therefore Peter will not be negligent (that is, at no time or place, in no part of his work, to no part of his charge), but will be exemplarily and universally diligent, and that in the work of a remembrancer. This is the office of the best ministers, even the apostles themselves; they are the Lord's remembrancers (Isa 62:6); they are especially bound to make mention of the promises, and put God in mind of his engagements to do good to his people; and they are the people's remembrancers, making mention of God's precepts, and putting them in mind of the doctrines and duties of Christianity, that they may remember God's commandments, to do them. And this the apostle does, though some persons might think it needless, inasmuch as they already knew those thing that he writes about, and were established in the very truth that he insists upon. Observe,
1.We need to be put in mind of what we already know to prevent our forgetting it, and to improve our knowledge, and reduce all to practice.
2.We must be established in the belief of the truth, that we may not be shaken by every wind of doctrine, and especially in that which is the present truth, the truth more peculiarly necessary for us to know in our day, that which belongs to our peace, and which is more especially opposed in our time. The great doctrines of the gospel, that Jesus is the Christ, that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners, that those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ shall be saved, and all that believe in God must be careful to maintain good works - these are truths the apostles insisted on in their day; these are faithful sayings, and worthy of all acceptation in every age of the Christian church. And, as these must be constantly affirmed by ministers (Tit 3:8), so the people are to be well instructed and established therein, and yet must, after all their attainments in knowledge, be put in mind of such things as cannot be too clearly known nor too firmly believed. The most advanced Christians cannot, while in this world, be above ordinances, nor beyond the need of those means which God has appointed and does afford. And, if the people need teaching and exhortation while they are in the body, it is very meet and just that ministers should, as long as they are in this tabernacle, instruct and exhort them, and bring those truths to their remembrance that they have formerly heard, this being a proper means to stir them up to be diligent and lively in a course of gospel-obedience.
II.The apostle, being set upon the work, tells us (Pe2 1:14) what makes him earnest in this matter, even the knowledge he had, not only that he must certainly, but also that he must shortly, put off this tabernacle. Observe,
1.The body is but the tabernacle of the soul. It is a mean and movable structure, whose stakes can be easily removed, and its cords presently broken.
2.This tabernacle must be put off. We are not to continue long in this earthly house. AS at night we put off our clothes, and lay them by, so at death we must put off our bodies, and they musts be laid up in the grave till the morning of the resurrection.
3.The nearness of death makes the apostle diligent in the business of life. Our Lord Jesus had shown him that the time of his departure was at hand, and therefore he bestirs himself with greater zeal and diligence, because the time is short. He must soon be removed from those to whom he wrote; and his ambition being that they should remember the doctrine he had delivered to them, after he himself was taken away from them, he commits his exhortation to writing. The apostle had not any great opinion of oral tradition. This was not so proper a means to reach the end he was in pursuit of. He would have them always to remember these things, and not only to keep them in mind, but also to make mention of them, as the original words import. Those who fear the Lord make mention of his name, and talk of his loving-kindness. This is the way to spread the knowledge of the Lord and this the apostle had at heart: and those who have the written word of God are thereby put into a capacity to do this.
Historical interpretation
Five Centuries of Reception
3 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
Peter thought that it was right to call Gentiles to faith, but the Jews did not. This is why he expresses himself like this here.
I think it right, as long as I am in this tabernacle, etc. We usually make use of a tabernacle in journey or in war, and rightly therefore the faithful, as long as they are in the body and are away from the Lord, testify that they are in tabernacles, in which they may conduct the journey of this life and fight against the adversaries of the truth.
Yet I think it right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you, knowing that shortly I must put off my tent, just as our Lord Jesus Christ showed me. Moreover, I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these things after my departure.
What is suggested, for example: "I will be careful to ensure that you always," some understand through a reversal of a word order in this way: I will take care and after my departure, you will always have or continuously the memory of these things: wanting to show from this that even after the death of the saints, they remembered what they accomplished here for the living. Others, however, simply treating that saying, understand it thus: I will take care and you will always have after my departure the last mention of these things: that is, do not be surprised, nor consider it burdensome that there is a constant mention made to you about these matters. For I do not do this condemning your ignorance, but by a continuous teaching about these things, I present to you this support, so that, being strengthened by these, you may also have after my death a living and permanent teaching about these matters.
Continue studying 2 Peter 1:13 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
CNTR CollationThe earliest Greek manuscripts of this verse, collated letter by letter.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
Summary
In 2 Peter 1:13, the Apostle Peter articulates his profound sense of apostolic duty and the urgency he feels to reinforce essential Christian truths among believers. Recognizing the temporary nature of his earthly life, symbolized by his "tabernacle," he expresses his conviction that it is entirely fitting and necessary for him to actively "stir up" his audience by continually bringing foundational spiritual realities back to their remembrance, ensuring their steadfastness in faith before his impending departure.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed within Peter's second epistle, following his robust exhortation for believers to diligently pursue spiritual growth and virtue, having been granted "all things that pertain to life and godliness" through divine power (2 Peter 1:3). Peter has just outlined a progression of virtues, from faith to love, emphasizing that these qualities, when present and increasing, prevent believers from being ineffective or unfruitful in their knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 1:5-8). With verse 13, Peter transitions from what believers should do to why he is writing, underscoring his personal commitment to their spiritual stability. His immediate reference to his impending death in the subsequent verse (2 Peter 1:14) provides a poignant backdrop, framing his present efforts as a final, urgent apostolic charge.
Historical & Cultural Context
Peter's audience comprised believers dispersed throughout Asia Minor, likely facing internal challenges such as spiritual complacency and external pressures, particularly the infiltration of false teachers and their deceptive doctrines, which Peter addresses extensively later in the letter (2 Peter 2). In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of a "tabernacle" (Greek: skēnōma) resonated with the temporary nature of tents or portable dwellings, common in nomadic life or military campaigns. This imagery would have been readily understood as a metaphor for the human body, a transient abode for the soul, contrasting sharply with the permanence of eternal realities. Peter, writing from a position of impending martyrdom, imbues his words with the gravitas of a final testament, urging his flock to remain vigilant and grounded in truth amidst a challenging spiritual landscape.
Key Themes
Peter's declaration in this verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in his epistle. Firstly, it highlights Apostolic Duty and Responsibility, portraying Peter as a faithful shepherd committed to nurturing and protecting his flock. His sense of it being "meet" (fitting or proper) underscores the divine mandate behind his ministry. Secondly, the phrase "as long as I am in this tabernacle" powerfully conveys the Temporary Nature of Earthly Life and the Urgency of Ministry. This eschatological perspective, recognizing life as a fleeting pilgrimage, motivates Peter to maximize his remaining time for the spiritual benefit of others. Finally, his stated purpose "to stir you up by putting [you] in remembrance" emphasizes the Power and Necessity of Spiritual Remembrance. Peter is not introducing new doctrines but is calling believers to a fresh apprehension and active application of truths they already possess, a theme he reiterates in 2 Peter 3:1.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Meaning equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy; just, right(-eous). Peter's use of "meet" (δίκαιος) here signifies that his action of writing and reminding them is morally right, proper, and in accordance with God's will and his apostolic calling. It implies a sense of divine appropriateness and obligation.
Meaning an encampment; figuratively, the Temple (as God's residence), the body (as a tenement for the soul). This word metaphorically describes the human body as a temporary dwelling or tent, emphasizing its transient and fragile nature in contrast to the eternal spirit. It evokes the imagery of the Old Testament tabernacle, a portable sanctuary, reinforcing the idea of a temporary, earthly existence.
Meaning to wake fully; i.e., arouse (literally or figuratively). This verb conveys Peter's intention to awaken or rouse his readers from spiritual lethargy, complacency, or forgetfulness. It suggests a need for an active, vigorous re-engagement with their faith and the truths they have been taught, rather than passively receiving information.
Verse Breakdown
"Yea, I think it meet,"
Peter begins with a strong affirmation ("Yea," from Greek dé, often unexpressed in English but here conveying emphasis or continuation). He declares his conviction that it is morally right, proper, and fitting (Greek: díkaios) for him to undertake the task of writing and reminding his audience. This statement underscores his sense of divine obligation and the inherent righteousness of his apostolic ministry.
"as long as I am in this tabernacle,"
This clause reveals Peter's awareness of his mortality and the temporary nature of his earthly life. The "tabernacle" (Greek: skḗnōma) is a powerful metaphor for his physical body, a transient dwelling for his soul. This phrase injects a profound sense of urgency into his message, indicating that his time is limited and he must fulfill his duty while he still can.
"to stir you up by putting [you] in remembrance;"
This is the core purpose of Peter's writing. To "stir you up" (Greek: diegeírō) means to awaken or arouse them from any spiritual slumber or complacency. This awakening is achieved "by putting [you] in remembrance" (Greek: hypómnēsis), implying that the truths he is emphasizing are not new revelations but rather foundational principles that need to be recalled, re-examined, and re-applied to their lives.
Literary Devices
Peter effectively employs several literary devices in this verse. The most prominent is Metaphor, specifically the use of "this tabernacle" to represent his human body. This imagery evokes the temporary, portable nature of a tent, contrasting with the permanence of a house, thereby emphasizing the transient nature of earthly life compared to eternal existence. This metaphor also subtly alludes to the Old Testament Tabernacle, a temporary dwelling for God's presence, perhaps hinting at the body as a temporary dwelling for the Holy Spirit. Peter also utilizes Apostolic Authority and Pathos as he frames his urgent appeal within the context of his impending death, lending weight and emotional resonance to his words. His declaration of what is "meet" (fitting or proper) underscores his divinely appointed role and the righteousness of his pastoral concern.
Theological and Thematic Connections
2 Peter 1:13 powerfully connects the apostle's awareness of his mortality with his unwavering commitment to pastoral care and the preservation of truth. The theological implication is that our temporary earthly existence should fuel an urgent, righteous dedication to God's purposes, particularly the spiritual well-being of others. Peter's emphasis on "remembrance" highlights the ongoing need for believers to be grounded in established truth, rather than constantly seeking novelty. This verse resonates with the broader biblical theme of the body as a temporary vessel and the call to live purposefully in light of eternity, recognizing that spiritual growth often comes from a deeper internalization of known truths.
Reflection and Application
Peter's earnest declaration in 2 Peter 1:13 serves as a profound call to introspection and purposeful living for believers today. His recognition of his body as a "tabernacle" reminds us that our earthly lives are finite and precious, not to be squandered. This perspective should ignite a holy urgency within us, prompting us to consider how we are stewarding our time, talents, and opportunities for God's glory and the advancement of His kingdom. Just as Peter felt it "meet" to stir up his audience, we too are called to actively engage with and apply the truths of God's Word, not allowing spiritual complacency to dull our senses. It underscores that spiritual maturity is not merely about acquiring new knowledge, but about consistently remembering, internalizing, and living out the foundational truths of our faith. This verse challenges us to embrace our temporary nature with eternal purpose, ensuring our lives are a vibrant testament to Christ.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does Peter refer to his body as a 'tabernacle'?
Peter's use of "tabernacle" (Greek: skēnōma) is a powerful metaphor for his human body, emphasizing its temporary and transient nature. In biblical thought, a tabernacle was a portable, temporary dwelling, like the Old Testament Tabernacle which housed God's presence during Israel's wilderness wanderings. By calling his body a "tabernacle," Peter highlights that his earthly life is not a permanent residence but a temporary tent, a fragile vessel for his soul. This imagery underscores the brevity of life and contrasts it with the eternal home awaiting believers, a theme also explored by Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:1. This perspective injects urgency into his mission, as he knows his time on earth is limited.
What is the significance of Peter's desire to "stir up" believers?
Peter's desire to "stir up" (Greek: diegeírō) his readers signifies his intention to awaken or arouse them from any spiritual lethargy, complacency, or forgetfulness. It implies that believers, even those who are mature, can become spiritually dull or neglectful of vital truths. Peter's goal is not to introduce new doctrines but to re-energize their faith and commitment by reminding them of what they already know but may have forgotten or failed to apply. This "stirring up" is achieved through "putting them in remembrance" (Greek: hypómnēsis), reinforcing the idea that spiritual growth often involves a fresh apprehension and diligent application of established biblical principles, as he reiterates in 2 Peter 3:1.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Peter's urgent pastoral charge in 2 Peter 1:13 finds its ultimate motivation and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Peter, living in his temporary "tabernacle," mirrors the incarnate Christ, who "tabernacled among us" (John 1:14), taking on a human body to fulfill God's redemptive plan. Just as Christ's earthly life was purposeful and culminated in His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, Peter's awareness of his own impending departure compels him to maximize his remaining time for the spiritual benefit of others. His mission to "stir up" believers by "putting them in remembrance" is a reflection of Christ's own ministry, which consistently called His disciples to remember His words and deeds, and to live in light of His kingdom. The truths Peter reminds them of—divine power, precious promises, and the call to virtue (2 Peter 1:3-4)—are all anchored in Christ. It is through Christ that believers are granted "all things that pertain to life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3), and it is the hope of His glorious return that provides the ultimate motivation for steadfastness (2 Peter 3:10-13). Thus, Peter's final exhortations are not merely human wisdom but a Christ-centered call to persevere in the faith delivered once for all to the saints.