2 Peter 2:21

For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known [it], to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.

For {G1063} it had been {G2258} better {G2909} for them {G846} not {G3361} to have known {G1921} the way {G3598} of righteousness {G1343}, than {G2228}, after they have known {G1921} it, to turn {G1994} from {G1537} the holy {G40} commandment {G1785} delivered {G3860} unto them {G846}.

It would have been better for them not to have known the Way of righteousness than, fully knowing, to turn from the holy command delivered to them.

It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness than to have known it and then to turn away from the holy commandment passed on to them.

For it were better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after knowing it, to turn back from the holy commandment delivered unto them.

Commentary

2 Peter 2:21 (KJV) delivers a solemn warning about the spiritual peril of those who, having once embraced Christian truth, subsequently abandon it. The verse asserts that it would have been preferable for such individuals never to have encountered the Gospel at all, rather than to know it and then turn away from its divine precepts.

Context

This verse is found within a powerful denunciation of false teachers and their deceptive practices, which Peter warns will infiltrate the church. Throughout 2 Peter chapter 2, the apostle describes the character, methods, and certain doom of these individuals who lead others astray with their sensuality and false doctrines. Verse 21 specifically addresses the tragic spiritual state of those who have been enlightened by the "way of righteousness" but then revert to their former sinful ways, or even worse, actively rebel against the "holy commandment" they once received. It underscores the severity of apostasy following a genuine exposure to truth.

Key Themes

  • The Gravity of Apostasy: The central message is that turning away from known truth is a more severe offense than never having known it. It implies a conscious rejection of God's grace and an intentional departure from the path of salvation.
  • Knowledge and Responsibility: The verse highlights the profound responsibility that comes with knowing God and His truth. Greater knowledge brings greater accountability, echoing the principle that to whom much is given, much is required.
  • The "Way of Righteousness" and "Holy Commandment": These phrases refer to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the path of salvation, and the moral and ethical teachings delivered by God through His apostles. It encompasses the entire body of Christian doctrine and the lifestyle it demands.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "known" in this verse is egnōsan (ἔγνωσαν), from the verb ginōskō, meaning to know by experience or observation, not merely intellectual assent. This suggests a prior, genuine encounter with Christian truth. The phrase "way of righteousness" (hodon dikaiosynēs) signifies the path of right living and alignment with God's will, while "holy commandment" (hagias entolēs) points to the divine and sacred nature of the Gospel's precepts. To "turn from" (epistrepsai) implies a deliberate turning back or reversal, a choice to abandon the path once taken.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a sober warning for all believers. It emphasizes the importance of steadfastness and perseverance in the faith, reminding us that a superficial understanding or temporary adherence is not enough. It calls for:

  • Spiritual Discernment: Be wary of false teachings and influences that could lead one astray.
  • Commitment to Truth: Deepen your understanding and commitment to the "holy commandment" delivered through God's Word.
  • Perseverance: Actively strive to continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, avoiding complacency that can lead to drifting away.

Ultimately, 2 Peter 2:21 underscores the profound seriousness of one's response to the Gospel and the severe consequences of rejecting divine truth after having been exposed to its saving power.

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Cross-References

  • Ezekiel 18:24 (24 votes)

    But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, [and] doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked [man] doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.

  • James 4:17 (18 votes)

    Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth [it] not, to him it is sin.

  • Hebrews 6:4 (17 votes)

    For [it is] impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,

  • Hebrews 6:6 (17 votes)

    If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put [him] to an open shame.

  • Ezekiel 3:20 (15 votes)

    Again, When a righteous [man] doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

  • Luke 12:47 (12 votes)

    And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not [himself], neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many [stripes].

  • John 15:22 (9 votes)

    If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin.