2 Peter 3:17

KJV

Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know [these things] before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.

KJV (with Strong's)

Ye {G5210} therefore {G3767}, beloved {G27}, seeing ye know these things before {G4267}, beware {G5442} lest {G3363} ye also {G1601}, being led away {G4879} with the error {G4106} of the wicked {G113}, fall from {G1601} your own {G2398} stedfastness {G4740}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But you, dear friends, since you know this in advance, guard yourselves; so that you will not be led away by the errors of the wicked and fall from your own secure position.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore, beloved, since you already know these things, be on your guard so that you will not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure standing.

American Standard Version

Ye therefore, beloved, knowing these things beforehand, beware lest, being carried away with the error of the wicked, ye fall from your own stedfastness.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Peter 3:17, the Apostle Peter delivers a solemn and urgent warning to his Christian readers, whom he affectionately addresses as "beloved." Building upon their prior knowledge of eschatological truths concerning the Lord's return and the ultimate judgment, Peter exhorts them to exercise vigilance. He cautions them against being swept away by the deceptive teachings and immoral conduct of the wicked, emphasizing the critical need to maintain their spiritual stability and unwavering adherence to the truth, lest they compromise their faith and fall from their established position in Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a crucial concluding exhortation within Peter's second epistle, specifically following his extended discussion in [2 Peter 3](/2_peter/3 "2 Peter 3 - The Day of the Lord and Holy Living") about the certainty of the Lord's second coming and the impending judgment. Peter has just addressed the scoffers who deny Christ's return ([2 Peter 3:3-4](/2_peter/3-3-4 "2 Peter 3:3-4 - Scoffers and the Last Days")), affirmed God's patience and the fiery destruction of the present heavens and earth ([2 Peter 3:7-13](/2_peter/3-7-13 "2 Peter 3:7-13 - God's Patience and the New Heavens and Earth")), and called believers to live holy and godly lives in light of these realities ([2 Peter 3:11-14](/2_peter/3-11-14 "2 Peter 3:11-14 - Living in Light of Eternity")). He also briefly mentions Paul's writings, acknowledging their wisdom but also their potential for misinterpretation by the ignorant and unstable ([2 Peter 3:15-16](/2_peter/3-15-16 "2 Peter 3:15-16 - Paul's Wisdom and Misinterpretation")). Verse 17, therefore, acts as a direct, practical application of all that precedes it, urging vigilance against the very errors and moral decay that false teachers, extensively described in [2 Peter 2](/2_peter/2 "2 Peter 2 - False Teachers and Their Judgment"), propagate.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter's audience likely consisted of various Christian communities in Asia Minor, facing both external pressures and internal threats. The historical context includes the nascent development of Christian doctrine and the simultaneous rise of various Gnostic and proto-Gnostic heresies that challenged the apostolic teachings. These false teachers often denied the true humanity of Christ, promoted licentiousness, and scoffed at the idea of a future judgment or Christ's return. Culturally, the Roman world was pluralistic, and syncretism was common, making it easy for believers to be swayed by appealing but erroneous philosophies. Peter's warning reflects the very real danger posed by these internal threats, which often masqueraded as spiritual enlightenment but led to moral compromise and doctrinal deviation, undermining the very foundations of the Christian faith.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent in [2 Peter](/2_peter/1 "2 Peter - Growth in Grace and Knowledge"). Firstly, **Vigilance and Foreknowledge** is paramount; the phrase "seeing ye know these things before" underscores the responsibility that accompanies divine revelation. Believers are not ignorant; they have been forewarned about the end times and the presence of deceptive influences, a knowledge that should prompt caution and discernment. Secondly, the theme of **Warning Against Deception** is explicit; Peter warns against being "led away with the error of the wicked." This "error" (Greek: _planē_) refers to false teachings that lead to moral decay and spiritual instability, highlighting the subtle yet powerful nature of spiritual deception, which Peter details in [2 Peter 2:1-3](/2_peter/2-1-3 "2 Peter 2:1-3 - False Prophets and Destructive Heresies"). Finally, the critical theme of **Maintaining Steadfastness** is emphasized; the ultimate danger is to "fall from your own stedfastness." This "stedfastness" (Greek: _stērigmós_) implies spiritual firmness, stability, and unwavering adherence to sound doctrine and righteous living, echoing the call to grow in grace and knowledge found in [2 Peter 3:18](/2_peter/3-18 "2 Peter 3:18 - Grow in Grace and Knowledge").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **beware (Greek, _phylássō'_):** From a root meaning "to watch" or "to be on guard." This word carries the sense of taking precautions, guarding oneself, or exercising careful vigilance. It implies an active, conscious effort to protect oneself from a known danger, rather than a passive observation. In this context, it is a command to be on the alert against spiritual threats.
* **error (Greek, _plánē'_):** This term denotes a wandering, a going astray, or a deviation from the right path. It can refer to physical wandering, but more commonly in the New Testament, it signifies spiritual or moral delusion, deception, or false doctrine. It suggests a state of being misled or a deceptive influence that causes one to deviate from truth and righteousness. The "error of the wicked" points to the deceptive teachings and practices propagated by those who are morally corrupt.
* **stedfastness (Greek, _stērigmós'_):** Derived from a verb meaning "to make firm" or "to establish," this noun signifies stability, firmness, or steadfastness. It conveys the idea of being fixed, unmovable, or securely established in one's faith, doctrine, and conduct. To "fall from your own stedfastness" means to lose this spiritual stability, to be shaken from one's firm foundation, or to abandon one's established convictions and righteous way of life.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know [these things] before,"**: Peter addresses his audience with affection ("beloved"), underscoring the pastoral care behind his warning. The phrase "seeing ye know [these things] before" highlights their privileged position of foreknowledge. "These things" refers to the eschatological truths Peter has just expounded: the certainty of Christ's return, the judgment of the world, and the promise of new heavens and a new earth. This foreknowledge places a responsibility upon them; their awareness of future events and the accompanying dangers should naturally lead to vigilance.
* **"beware lest ye also,"**: This is a direct command, an imperative to be on guard. The word "beware" (Greek: _phylássō_) implies active watchfulness and self-preservation. The inclusion of "ye also" suggests that the danger of falling is not limited to others but is a real possibility for them, even for those who are "beloved" and "know these things before." It underscores the pervasive nature of the threat.
* **"being led away with the error of the wicked,"**: This clause identifies the specific mechanism of danger. "Being led away" (Greek: _synapágō_) suggests being carried along or swept away, often implying a passive yielding to influence, like a current carrying a boat off course. The source of this deviation is "the error of the wicked." This "error" (Greek: _plánē_) refers to the deceptive doctrines and immoral practices propagated by false teachers, whom Peter has condemned as "wicked" (Greek: _áthesmos_ - lawless) throughout [2 Peter 2](/2_peter/2 "2 Peter 2 - The Description of False Teachers"). This highlights the insidious nature of false teaching, which can subtly draw believers away.
* **"fall from your own stedfastness."**: This is the ultimate negative consequence Peter warns against. To "fall from" (Greek: _ekpíptō_) implies a loss of position, a deviation from a stable state. "Your own stedfastness" (Greek: _stērigmós_) refers to their established spiritual stability, their firm adherence to sound doctrine, righteous living, and unwavering faith in Christ. It is a warning against losing the spiritual ground they have gained, abandoning their convictions, or compromising their integrity due to the influence of false teaching and ungodly behavior.

#### Literary Devices
Peter effectively employs several literary devices in this concise verse. The primary device is **Exhortation**, as he directly commands his readers to "beware," urging them to take specific action. This is coupled with **Warning**, as he clearly delineates the danger of being "led away with the error of the wicked" and the dire consequence of falling from "stedfastness." The affectionate address "beloved" serves as a form of **Pathos**, appealing to the readers' emotions and reinforcing the pastoral concern behind the stern warning. There is also an implicit **Contrast** between the believers' "foreknowledge" and the "error of the wicked," highlighting the responsibility that comes with truth. Finally, the phrase "led away" uses a subtle **Metaphor** of being swept off course, likening spiritual deviation to a physical displacement from a stable position.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is a profound theological statement on the necessity of spiritual vigilance and perseverance in the face of pervasive deception. It underscores the biblical truth that knowledge of God's Word and prophetic revelation is not merely for intellectual assent but for practical application in guarding one's faith and conduct. The warning against "the error of the wicked" highlights the ongoing spiritual battle against false teaching and moral corruption, emphasizing that apostasy is a real danger, not just for those outside the faith, but for those within the church who fail to remain anchored in truth. It calls believers to cultivate a robust spiritual stability, rooted in Christ, that enables them to withstand the pressures and deceptions of a fallen world, ensuring that their faith remains steadfast until the Lord's return.

* [Matthew 24:4-5](/matthew/24-4-5 "Matthew 24:4-5 - Warnings Against Deception")
* [Ephesians 4:14](/ephesians/4-14 "Ephesians 4:14 - No Longer Tossed by Every Wind of Doctrine")
* [Hebrews 3:12-13](/hebrews/3-12-13 "Hebrews 3:12-13 - Beware of an Unbelieving Heart")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Peter's warning in 2 Peter 3:17 resonates deeply with believers in every generation, serving as a timeless call to spiritual sobriety and unwavering commitment. In a world saturated with competing narratives, shifting moral standards, and subtle deceptions, the need to "beware" is more critical than ever. Our foreknowledge of God's truth, revealed in His Word and culminating in the promise of Christ's return, is not a passive intellectual exercise but an active summons to vigilance. We are called to discern carefully, to test all things, and to hold fast to what is good, recognizing that spiritual error often presents itself attractively. Maintaining our "stedfastness" requires intentional effort: consistent engagement with Scripture, prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit, active participation in a discerning Christian community, and a resolute commitment to living out our faith authentically. This verse challenges us to examine our own spiritual foundations and to actively guard against any influence that might subtly lead us away from the truth and integrity of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "things" do I "know before" about God's truth and future promises, and how does this knowledge inform my daily vigilance?**
* **In what subtle ways might "the error of the wicked" manifest in my current environment, and how can I better discern it?**
* **What practical steps can I take to strengthen my "stedfastness" in faith and prevent myself from being "led away"?**
* **How does my community of faith contribute to or detract from my ability to remain steadfast?**

### FAQ
**What does Peter mean by "these things" that believers "know before"?**

Answer: "These things" refers to the comprehensive eschatological teaching Peter has just elaborated upon in [2 Peter 3](/2_peter/3 "2 Peter 3 - The Day of the Lord and Holy Living"). Specifically, it includes the certainty of the Lord's return, the ultimate destruction of the present heavens and earth by fire, the promise of new heavens and a new earth where righteousness dwells, and God's patience in delaying judgment to allow for repentance. Believers are forewarned about these future realities, which should shape their present conduct and vigilance.

**Who are "the wicked" whose "error" Peter warns against?**

Answer: "The wicked" (Greek: _áthesmos_, meaning "lawless" or "unprincipled") primarily refers to the false teachers and their followers described extensively in [2 Peter 2](/2_peter/2 "2 Peter 2 - False Teachers and Their Judgment"). These individuals are characterized by their deceptive doctrines, immoral lifestyles (often marked by sensuality and greed), contempt for authority, and scoffing at the promise of Christ's coming. Their "error" (Greek: _plánē_) is not merely intellectual mistake but a profound spiritual delusion that leads to moral corruption and spiritual instability.

**What is "stedfastness" and how does one "fall from" it?**

Answer: "Stedfastness" (Greek: _stērigmós_) signifies spiritual stability, firmness, and unwavering adherence to sound doctrine and righteous living. It implies being fixed and established in one's faith, convictions, and moral integrity. To "fall from" it (Greek: _ekpíptō_) means to lose this spiritual stability, to be shaken from one's firm foundation, or to abandon one's established commitment to Christ and His truth. This can happen through being subtly "led away" by deceptive teachings, compromising one's moral standards, or succumbing to the pressures and influences of the ungodly. It is a warning against apostasy or a significant deviation from the path of righteousness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Peter 3:17 is a direct warning to believers, its fulfillment and the means by which steadfastness is maintained are profoundly Christ-centered. Jesus Christ is the ultimate truth against which all "error of the wicked" is exposed. He is the one who enables and sustains our "stedfastness," for our faith is not in a set of principles but in a Person—the [Lord Jesus Christ](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life"). It is through His atoning work that we are reconciled to God, and by His indwelling Spirit that we are empowered to resist deception and live righteously. Our ability to "beware" and not be "led away" is rooted in our knowledge of [Him who called us by His own glory and excellence](/2_peter/1-3 "2 Peter 1:3 - God's Divine Power"). Ultimately, our steadfastness is not merely our own effort but a gift and a work of God's grace in us, secured by [Christ, who is our hope and our firm foundation](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ the Only Foundation"). The warning to remain steadfast anticipates the day when [we will stand blameless before Him at His coming](/1_thessalonians/5-23 "1 Thessalonians 5:23 - Sanctification and Preservation").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 3:14

For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

Colossians 2:8

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

2 Corinthians 11:13

For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

2 Corinthians 11:15

Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

1 Corinthians 15:58

¶ Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

Ephesians 4:14

That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Matthew 7:15

¶ Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.