Peter's Dying Wish...

2 Peter 3:1-2
This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder, that you should remember the predictions of the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles,

As we continue in the book of second Peter, we come to the beginning of the third chapter. Peter begins this final segment by repeating a statement made back in chapter one.

1 Peter 1:12-13
Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder,

These passages are similar but there are some major differences that we should look at. In the passage in chapter 1, we see that Peter wants to remind Christians about the "qualities" of a true believer. Peter here emphasizes the importance of "stir(ring) (us) up" by way of reminders. This colloquial phrase carries the idea of water being "stirred-up", like when a strong wind comes in on a calm body of water. The idea is to WAKE UP our minds from a calm state, to a state of being concerned and engaged.

So how is this passage diffenrent from today's passage in chapter three. For one thing, the things that Peter is calling us to remember are different. In today's passage, the things we are to remember are "predictions of the prophets," and "the Lord's commandments." The other small difference is that Peter describes the minds of his readers as "sincere." This can also be translated, "pure". Most likely, Peter is referring to the mind of the Christian, that has been "made pure" at salvation. Not sinless, but imputed with righteousness; desiring good rather than evil, but still engaged in a battle with the flesh.

Obvious question Alert!!!

What predictions?...What commands?

I would say, all of them, but specifically the ones mentioned in his letters. (Read blog posts to see them all)

APPLICATION:

For me, when I read Peters letters I feel a connection with the man that stood with Christ. Almost like reading a personal letter from a friend. You get the sense that Peter had much care for those to whom he wrote. Notice the term, "beloved" in verse one. I am moved to consider whether or not I am "stirred-up" or just coasting along, not paying too much attention to my spiritual walk. These verses are Peters dying wishes to the Christians that he loved. I am one, and if you are a Christian, then he is speaking to you as well.

Listen carefully, more reminders coming up next...