2 Peter 3:16

As also in all [his] epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as [they do] also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

As {G5613} also {G2532} in {G1722} all {G3956} his epistles {G1992}, speaking {G2980} in {G1722} them {G846} of {G4012} these things {G5130}; in {G1722} which {G3739} are {G2076} some things {G5100} hard to be understood {G1425}, which {G3739} they that are unlearned {G261} and {G2532} unstable {G793} wrest {G4761}, as {G5613} they do also {G2532} the other {G3062} scriptures {G1124}, unto {G4314} their {G846} own {G2398} destruction {G684}.

Indeed, he speaks about these things in all his letters. They contain some things that are hard to understand, things which the uninstructed and unstable distort, to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures.

He writes this way in all his letters, speaking in them about such matters. Some parts of his letters are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction.

as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; wherein are some things hard to be understood, which the ignorant and unstedfast wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

Commentary

Context of 2 Peter 3:16

In 2 Peter chapter 3, the Apostle Peter is addressing scoffers who question the promise of Christ's return and the ultimate judgment. He reaffirms the certainty of the Day of the Lord and the establishment of new heavens and a new earth. Within this discourse, Peter refers to the writings of Paul, acknowledging their shared theological ground, particularly concerning eschatological themes. This verse serves as a crucial warning against misinterpreting biblical truth, especially from those who lack proper understanding or have ulterior motives.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Paul's Epistles as Scripture: Peter's statement ("As also in all [his] epistles") implicitly affirms the divine authority and inspiration of Paul's writings, placing them on par with "the other scriptures." This is a significant early testament to the New Testament canon.
  • Difficulty in Understanding Scripture: Peter admits that some of Paul's teachings are "hard to be understood." This acknowledges the inherent complexity of certain biblical doctrines, requiring careful study and spiritual discernment.
  • Danger of Misinterpretation: The verse warns against those who are "unlearned and unstable" and who "wrest" or distort these difficult passages. The "unlearned" may lack theological training or spiritual maturity, while the "unstable" are inconsistent in their faith or easily swayed by false teachings.
  • Consequences of Twisting Scripture: Peter clearly states that such distortion leads "unto their own destruction." This highlights the grave spiritual danger of misrepresenting God's Word, which can lead individuals away from truth and salvation, sometimes even to the promotion of destructive heresies.

Linguistic Insights

The key word in this verse is "wrest" (KJV), which comes from the Greek word strebloo (στρεβλόω). This term vividly describes a violent twisting, distorting, or torturing of something. It implies not just a misunderstanding, but an intentional or reckless perversion of the text, much like twisting a limb out of joint. It suggests a deliberate manipulation of the meaning to suit one's own agenda or flawed theology, rather than seeking to understand the original intent.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless guidance for engaging with the Bible:

  1. Approach Scripture with Humility: Recognize that some biblical passages are indeed challenging. A humble heart is essential for proper understanding, acknowledging the need for divine guidance (cf. John 16:13).
  2. Seek Sound Teaching: Guard against personal interpretations that lack grounding in the broader context of Scripture or the consensus of historical Christian understanding. Seek out mature teachers and sound doctrine (cf. 2 Timothy 4:3).
  3. Study Diligently: Avoid being "unlearned." Spiritual growth involves diligent study of God's Word, prayer, and meditation, allowing the Holy Spirit to illuminate its truths.
  4. Beware of Instability: Cultivate a stable and grounded faith that is not easily swayed by every new teaching or sensational interpretation. Firmly root your beliefs in the entirety of God's revealed Word.
  5. Respect the Gravity of Interpretation: Understanding and teaching Scripture is a serious matter. Misinterpreting or deliberately twisting it carries severe consequences, not only for the individual but for those they influence.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Matthew 15:6 (7 votes)

    And honour not his father or his mother, [he shall be free]. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.

  • Hebrews 5:11 (5 votes)

    Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.

  • 2 Peter 2:14 (4 votes)

    Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children:

  • Philippians 3:19 (4 votes)

    Whose end [is] destruction, whose God [is their] belly, and [whose] glory [is] in their shame, who mind earthly things.)

  • James 1:8 (4 votes)

    A double minded man [is] unstable in all his ways.

  • Jeremiah 23:36 (3 votes)

    And the burden of the LORD shall ye mention no more: for every man's word shall be his burden; for ye have perverted the words of the living God, of the LORD of hosts our God.

  • Romans 8:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ [There is] therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.