English: translationNotes

Updated ? hours ago # views See on DCS

2 Peter

2 Peter front

2 Peter front:intro

Introduction to 2 Peter

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of 2 Peter
  1. Introduction (1:1-2)
  2. Reminder to live good lives because God has enabled us to (1:3-21)
  3. Warning against false teachers (2:1-22)
  4. Encouragement to prepare for the second coming of Jesus (3:1-17)
Who wrote the Book of 2 Peter?

The author identified himself as Simon Peter. Simon Peter was an apostle. He also wrote 1 Peter. Peter probably wrote this letter while in a prison in Rome just before he died. Peter called this letter his second letter, so we can date it after 1 Peter. He addressed the letter to the same audience as his first letter. The audience probably was Christians scattered throughout Asia Minor.

What is the Book of 2 Peter about?

Peter wrote this letter to encourage believers to live good lives. He warned them about false teachers who were saying Jesus was taking too long to return. He told them that Jesus was not slow in returning. Instead, God was giving people time to repent so that they would be saved.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "2 Peter" or "Second Peter." Or they may choose a clearer title, such as "The Second Letter from Peter" or "The Second Letter Peter Wrote." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Who were the people Peter spoke against?

It is possible that the people Peter spoke against were those who would become known as Gnostics. These teachers distorted the teachings of scripture for their own gain. They lived in immoral ways and taught others to do the same.

What does it mean that God inspired Scripture?

The doctrine of scripture is a very important one. 2 Peter helps readers to understand that while each writer of scripture had his own distinct way of writing, God is the true author of scripture (1:20-21).

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

# Singular and plural "you"

In this book, the word "I" refers to Peter. Also, the word "you" is always plural and refers to Peter's audience. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 2 Peter?

The following are the most significant textual issues in the Book of 2 Peter:

  • "to be kept in chains of lower darkness until the judgment." (2:4) The ULB, UDB, and many versions read this way. Other versions have, "to be kept in pits of lower darkness until the judgment." If other versions exist in the translators' region, they might consider following those versions' reading in this passage.
  • "They enjoy their deceitful actions while they are feasting with you." (2:13) The ULB, UDB, and many versions read this way. Other versions have, "They enjoy their actions while they are feasting with you in love feasts."
  • "Beor" (2:15). The ULB, UDB, and many other modern versions read this way. Some other versions read, "Bosor."
  • "The elements will be burned with fire, and the earth and the deeds in it will be revealed." (3:10) The ULB, UDB, and many versions read this way. Other versions have, "The elements will be burned with fire, and the earth and the deeds in it will be burned up." If other versions exist in the translators' region, they might consider following those versions' readings in this passage.

(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-textvariants/01.md]])

2 Peter 1

2 Peter 1:intro-0

2 Peter 01 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Knowing God

Christian spiritual growth is often described as knowing God more or knowing God better. This is because growing Christians understand the things of God better as they grow. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/spirit.md]])

# Forgetting what God has done

Peter believes Christians who are not leading godly lives have forgotten the cost of their salvation. He reasons: if they remembered their former lives and what Jesus has done, they would be sufficiently motivated to live godly lives. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/godly.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
# Divine revelation

Peter describes Christianity as a religion which has been revealed and proved by God, and it is therefore implied that it is not a creation of man, like all other religions (except Judaism). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/reveal.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Links:

| >>

2 Peter 1:1-2

General Information:

Peter identifies himself as the writer and identifies and greets the believers he is writing to.

slave and apostle of Jesus Christ

Peter speaks of being Jesus Christ's servant. He also was given the position and authority of being Christ's apostle.

to those who have received the same precious faith

That these people have received faith implies that God has given that faith to them. AT: "to those to whom God has given the same precious faith" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

to those who have received

"to you who have received." Peter addresses all believers who may read this letter.

we have received

Here the word "we" refers to Peter and the other apostles, but not to those to whom he is writing. AT: "we apostles have received" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

May grace and peace increase in measure

God is the one who will give grace and peace to believers. AT: "May God increase your grace and your peace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

May grace and peace increase

Peter speaks of peace as if it were an object that could increase in size or numbers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord

You can translate "knowledge" using a verbal phrase. AT: "through your knowing God and Jesus our Lord" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 1:3-4

General Information:

Peter begins to teach the believers about living godly lives.

for life and godliness

Here "godliness" describes the word "life." AT: "for a godly life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

who called us

Here the word "us" refers to Peter and his audience. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

Through these

Here "these" refers to "his own glory and virtue."

you might be sharers

"you might share"

the divine nature

what God is like

having escaped the corruption in the world that is caused by evil desires

Peter speaks of people not suffering from the corruption that wicked desires cause as if they were escaping from that corruption. The word "corruption" is an abstract noun that can be translated with a verbal phrase. AT: "and so that the wicked desires in this world will no longer corrupt you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 1:5-7

For this reason

This refers to what Peter has just said in the previous verses. AT: "Because of what God has done" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

brotherly affection

This refers to love for a friend or family member and likely means love for ones spiritual family.

translationWords

2 Peter 1:8-9

these things

This refers to faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love, which Peter mentioned in the previous verses.

you will not be barren or unfruitful

Peter speaks of a person who does not possess these qualities as if he is a field that will not produce a crop. This can be stated in positive terms. AT: "you will produce and be fruitful" or "you will be effective" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

barren or unfruitful

These words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that this person will not be productive or experience any benefits from knowing Jesus. AT: "unproductive" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ

You can translate "knowledge" using a verbal phrase. AT: "through your knowing God and Jesus our Lord" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

whoever lacks these things

any person who does not have these things

is so nearsighted that he is blind

Peter speaks of a person who does not possess these qualities as if he were a nearsighted or blind person because he does not understand their value. AT: "is like a shortsighted person who cannot see their importance" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he has been cleansed from his past sins

You can use a verb to translate this. AT: "that God has cleansed him from his old sins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 1:10-11

make your calling and election sure

The words "calling" and "election" share similar meanings and refer to God's choosing them to belong to him. AT: "make sure that God has really chosen you to belong to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

you will not stumble

Here the word "stumble" refers either to 1) committing sin. AT: "you will not practice sinful behavior" or 2) becoming unfaithful to Christ. AT: "you will not become unfaithful to Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God will richly provide for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

an entrance

the opportunity to enter

translationWords

2 Peter 1:12-15

Connecting Statement:

Peter tells the believers about his obligation to continue reminding them and teaching them.

you may be always able to remember these things

Here the words "these things" refers to everything that Peter has said in the previous verses.

you are strong in the truth

"you strongly believe the truth of these things"

to stir you up by way of reminder

Here the word "stir" means to awaken someone from sleep. Peter speaks of causing his readers to think about these things as if he were waking them from sleep. AT: "to remind you of these things so that you will think about them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as long as I am in this tent ... the putting off of my tent will be soon

Peter speaks of his body as if it were a tent that he is wearing and will take off. Being in his body represents being alive, and taking it off represents dying. AT: "as long as I am in this body ... I will soon take off this body" or "as long as I am alive ... I will die soon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

after my departure

Peter speaks of his death as if he were leaving one place to go to another. AT: "after my death" or "after I die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 1:16-18

Connecting Statement:

Peter continues to explain his teachings to the believers and explains why they are trustworthy.

For we did not follow cleverly invented myths

Here the word "we" refers to Peter and the other apostles, but not to his readers. AT: "For we apostles did not follow cleverly made-up stories" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

the power and the coming

These two phrases may refer to the same thing and be translated as a single phrase. AT: "the powerful coming" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ

Possible meanings are 1) the future second coming of the Lord Jesus or 2) the first coming of the Lord Jesus.

our Lord Jesus Christ

Here the word "our" refers to all believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

when a voice was brought to him by the Majestic Glory

This can be stated in active form. AT: "when he heard a voice come from the Majestic Glory" or "when he heard the voice of the Majestic Glory speak to him" or "when the Majestic Glory spoke to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the Majestic Glory saying

Peter refers to God in terms of his glory. This is a euphemism that avoids using God's name, out of reverence for him. AT: "God, the Supreme Glory, saying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

We ourselves heard this voice brought from heaven

With the word "We," Peter is referring to himself and to the disciples James and John, who heard the voice of God. AT: "We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

heard this voice brought from heaven

"heard the voice of the one who spoke from heaven"

we were with him

"we were with Jesus"

translationWords

2 Peter 1:19-21

General Information:

Peter begins to warn the believers about false teachers.

For we have this prophetic word made more sure

The things that Peter and the other apostles saw, which he described in the previous verses, confirm what the prophets spoke. This can be stated in active form. AT: "For the things that we saw make this prophetic word more sure" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

For we have

Here the word "we" refers to all believers, including Peter and his readers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

this prophetic word made

This refers to the Old Testament. AT: "the scriptures, which the prophets spoke, made" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]]) (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

you do well to pay attention to it

Peter instructs the believers to pay close attention to the prophetic message.

as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns

Peter compares the prophetic word to a lamp that gives light in the dark until light comes in the morning. The coming of morning is a reference to Christ's coming. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

the morning star rises in your hearts

"Hearts" here is a metonym for "thoughts and intentions." Peter speaks of Christ as the "morning star," which indicates that daybreak and the end of darkness is near. Christ will bring light into the hearts of believers, ending all doubt and bringing full understanding of who he is. AT: "the morning star becomes supremely important in your thinking and the way you act" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the morning star

The "morning star" refers to the planet Venus, which sometimes rises just before the sun and indicates that daybreak is near.

Above all, you must understand

"Most importantly, you must understand"

no prophecy comes from someone's own interpretation

Possible meanings are 1) the prophets did not make their prophecies on their own or 2) people must rely on the Holy Spirit to understand the prophecies or 3) people must interpret the prophecies with the help of the entire Christian community of believers.

men spoke from God when they were carried along by the Holy Spirit

Peter speaks of the Holy Spirit helping the prophets to write what God wanted them to write as if the Holy Spirit was carrying them from one place to another. AT: "men spoke from God as the Holy Spirit directed them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 2

2 Peter 2:intro-0

2 Peter 02 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# "It has become for them worse than at the first."

From the context, "them" probably refers to false teachers. These people were not Christians but came to hear the gospel message and understood it enough to further their own selfish desires. It is unlikely this passage teaches that Christians who begin to live sinful lives will lose their salvation because of their actions. This is because all Christians remain sinful after they are saved. The context favors this passage as referencing unsaved false teachers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
# Flesh

This is a complex issue and it is possible that "flesh" is a metaphor for a person's sinful nature. It is not the physical part of man that is sinful and it appears that while man remains alive ("in the flesh"), he will remain sinful regardless of his effort, but his new nature will be fighting against his old nature. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/flesh.md]])

# Implicit Information

There are several analogies that are difficult to understand if the Old Testament has not yet been translated. Further explanation may be necessary. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Links:

<< | >>

2 Peter 2:1-3

General Information:

Peter begins to warn the believers about false teachers.

False prophets came to the people, and false teachers will also come to you

Just as false prophets came deceiving Israel with their words, so will false teachers come teaching lies about Christ.

destructive heresies

The word "heresies" refers to opinions that are contrary to the teaching of Christ and the apostles. These heresies destroy the faith of those who believe them.

the master who bought them

The word "master" here refers to a person who owns slaves. Peter speaks of Jesus as the owner of people whom he has bought, the price being his death. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

sensuality

"immoral sexual behavior"

the way of truth will be blasphemed

The phrase "way of truth" refers to the Christian faith as the true path to God. This can be stated in active form. AT: "unbelievers will blaspheme the way of truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

exploit you with deceptive words

"convince you to give them money by telling you lies"

their condemnation has not been idle, and their destruction is not asleep

Peter speaks of "condemnation" and "destruction" as if they are persons who act. The two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize how soon the false teachers will be condemned. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

their condemnation has not been idle, and their destruction is not asleep

You can translate these phrases with verbs in positive terms. AT: "God will soon condemn them; he is ready to destroy them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 2:4-6

Connecting Statement:

Peter gives examples of people who acted against God and whom God punished because of what they did.

did not spare

"did not refrain from punishing" or "punished"

he handed them down to Tartarus

The word "Tartarus" is a term from Greek religion that refers to the place where evil spirits and wicked men who have died are punished. AT: "he cast them into hell" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

to be kept in chains of lower darkness

This can be stated in active form. AT: "where he will keep them in chains of lower darkness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in chains of lower darkness

Possible meanings are 1) "in chains in a very dark place" or 2) "in very deep darkness that imprisons them like chains." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

until the judgment

This refers to the day of judgment when God will judge every person.

he did not spare the ancient world

Here the word "world" refers to the people who lived in it. AT: "he did not spare the people who lived in the ancient world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he preserved Noah ... along with seven others

God did not destroy Noah and seven other people when he destroyed the rest of the people who lived in the ancient world.

reduced the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes

"burned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah with fire until only ashes remained"

condemned them to destruction

Here the word "them" refers to Sodom and Gomorrah and the people who lived in them.

as an example of what is to happen to the ungodly

Sodom and Gomorrah serve as an example and a warning of what will happen to others who disobey God.

translationWords

2 Peter 2:7-9

Connecting Statement:

Peter gives an example of Lot, whom God rescued out from among men who deserved punishment.

the sensual behavior of lawless people

"the immoral behavior of people who broke God's law"

that righteous man

This refers to Lot.

was tormented in his righteous soul

Here the word "soul" refers to Lot's thoughts and emotions. The immoral behavior of the citizens of Sodom and Gomorrah disturbed him emotionally. AT: "was greatly disturbed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 2:10-11

Connecting Statement:

Peter begins describing the characteristics of unrighteous men.

This is especially true

The word "this" refers to God keeping unrighteous men in prison until judgment day in 2 Peter 2:09.

those who continue in the corrupt desires of the flesh

Here the phrase "desires of the flesh" refers to the desires of the sinful nature. AT: "those who continue to indulge their corrupt, sinful desires"

despise authority

"refuse to submit to God's authority." Here the word "authority" probably refers to God's authority.

authority

Here "authority" stands for God, who has the right to give commands and to punish disobedience. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

self-willed

"do whatever they want to do"

the glorious ones

This phrase refers to spiritual beings, such as angels or demons.

greater strength and power

"more strength and power than the false teachers"

they do not bring insulting judgments against them

The word "they" refers to angels. Possible meanings for the word "them" are 1) the glorious ones or 2) the false teachers.

bring insulting judgments against them

The idea that angels could accuse them is spoken of as if they could attack them using accusations as weapons. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 2:12-14

these unreasoning animals are naturally made for capture and destruction.

Just as animals cannot reason, these men cannot be reasoned with. AT: "these false teachers are like unreasoning animals who are made to be captured and destroyed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

They do not know what they insult

They speak evil of what they do not know or understand.

They will be destroyed

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God will destroy them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

They will receive the reward of their wrongdoing

Peter speaks of the punishment that the false teachers will receive as if it were a reward. AT: "They will receive what they deserve for their wrongdoing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]])

luxury during the day

Here the word "luxury" refers to immoral activity that includes gluttony, drunkenness, and sexual activity. Doing these things during the day indicates that these people are not ashamed of this behavior.

They are stains and blemishes

The words "stains" and "blemishes" share similar meanings. Peter speaks of the false teachers as if they were stains on a garment that cause shame for those who wear it. AT: "They are like stains and blemishes on clothes, which cause disgrace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

They have eyes full of adultery

Here the "eyes" represent their desires and "eyes full" means they constant want something. AT: "They constantly want to commit adultery" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

they are never satisfied with sin

Although they sin in order to satisfy their lusts, the sin that they commit never satisfies.

They entice unstable souls

Here the word "souls" refers to persons. AT: "They entice unstable people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

hearts trained in covetousness

Here the word "hearts" refers to the thoughts and emotions of the person. Because of their habitual actions, they have trained themselves to think and act out of covetousness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 2:15-16

They have abandoned the right way and have wandered off to follow

"These false teachers have abandoned the right way and have gone astray to follow." The false teachers have refused to be obedient to God because they have rejected what is right.

the right way

Right behavior that honors God is spoken of as if it were a path to follow. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he obtained a rebuke

You can specify it was God who rebuked Balaam. AT: "God rebuked him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

a mute donkey speaking in a human voice

A donkey, which is naturally unable to speak, spoke with a voice like a human.

stopped the prophet's insanity

God used a donkey to stop the prophet's foolish action. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 2:17-19

These men are springs without water

Springs flowing with water promise refreshment for thirsty people, but "springs without water" will leave the thirsty disappointed. In the same way, false teachers, although they promise many things, are unable to do what they promise. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

mists driven by a storm

When people see storm clouds, they expect rain to fall. When the winds from the storm blow the clouds away before the rain can fall, the people are disappointed. In the same way, false teachers, although they promise many things, are unable to do what they promise. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

The gloom of thick darkness is reserved for them

The word "them" refers to the false teachers. This can be stated in active form. AT: "God has reserved the gloom of thick darkness for them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

They speak with vain arrogance

They use impressive but meaningless words.

They entice people through the lusts of the flesh

They appeal to the sinful nature to engage people in immoral and sinful actions.

people who try to escape ... promise freedom ... slaves of corruption

Peter speaks of people who live sinfully as if they are slaves to sin who need to be released from their captivity. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

people who try to escape from those who live in error

This phrase refers to people who recently became believers. The phrase "those who live in error" refers to unbelievers who still live in sin. AT: "people who try to live rightly, instead of living sinfully as they used to and as other people do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

They promise freedom to them, but they themselves are slaves of corruption

"Freedom" here is an idiom for the ability to live exactly as one wants. AT: "They promise to give them the ability to live exactly as they want to live, but they themselves cannot escape their own sinful desires" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For a man is a slave to whatever overcomes him

Peter speaks of a person as a slave when anything has control over that person, and that thing as the master of that person. AT: "For if something has control over a person, that person becomes like a slave to that thing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 2:20-22

the corruption of the world

The word "defilements" refers to sinful behavior that makes one morally impure. The "world" refers to human society. AT: "the defiling practices of sinful human society" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

You can translate "knowledge" using a verbal phrase. See how you translated similar phrases in 2 Peter 1:2. AT: "by knowing the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the last state has become worse for them than the first

"their condition is worse than it was before"

the way of righteousness

Peter speaks of life as a "way" or path. This phrase refers to living a life that is according to God's will. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

turn away from the holy commandment

"Turn away" here is an idiom for "change direction from." AT: "change direction from following the holy commandment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the holy commandment delivered to them

This can be stated in active terms. AT: "the holy commandment that God brought to them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

delivered

"Delivered" here is a metaphor for "brought." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

This proverb is true for them

"This proverb applies to them" or "This proverb describes them"

A dog returns to its own vomit, and a washed pig returns to the mud

Peter uses two proverbs to illustrate how the false teachers, although they have known "the way of righteousness," have turned back to the things that make them morally and spiritually impure. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-proverbs/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 3

2 Peter 3:intro-0

2 Peter 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Fire

Fire is related to destruction and, because of this, it is associated with punishment.

# Day of the Lord

The exact time of the coming day of the Lord will come as a surprise to the world. This is what the simile "like a thief in the night" means. Because of this, Christians are to be prepared for the coming of the Lord. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/dayofthelord.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

Links:

<< |

2 Peter 3:1-2

General Information:

Peter begins to talk about the last days.

to stir up your sincere mind

Peter speaks of causing his readers to think about these things as if he were waking them from sleep. AT: "to cause you to think pure thoughts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the words that the holy prophets spoke in the past" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the command of our Lord and Savior given through your apostles

This can be stated in active form. AT: "the command of our Lord and Savior, which your apostles gave to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 3:3-4

Know this first

"Know this as the most important thing." See how you translated this in 2 Peter 1:20.

proceed according to their own desires

Here the word "desires" refers to sinful desires that are opposed to God's will. AT: "live according to their own sinful desires" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

proceed

act, behave

Where is the promise of his return?

The mockers ask this rhetorical question to emphasize that they do not believe that Jesus will return. The word "promise" refers to the fulfillment of the promise that Jesus will return. AT: "The promise that Jesus would return is not true! He will not return!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

our fathers fell asleep

Here "fathers" refers to ancestors who lived long ago. "Fell asleep" is an idiom that means they died. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

all things have stayed the same, since the beginning of creation

The mockers exaggerate with the word "all", and they argue that since nothing in the world has ever changed, it cannot be true that Jesus will return. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

since the beginning of creation

This can be translated as a verbal phrase. AT: "since God created the world" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 3:5-7

the heavens and the earth came to exist ... long ago, by God's command

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God established the heavens and the earth ... long ago by his word" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

came to exist out of water and through water

This means that God caused the land to come up out of the water, gathering the bodies of water together to make the land appear.

through these things

Here "these things" refers to God's word and water.

the world of that time was destroyed, being flooded with water

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God flooded the world that existed at that time with water and destroyed it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the heavens and the earth are reserved for fire by that same command

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God, by that same word, has reserved the heavens and the earth for fire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

that same command

Here "command" stands for God, who will give the command: AT "God, who will give a similar command"

They are reserved for the day of judgment

This can be stated in active form and can begin a new sentence. AT: "He is reserving them for the day of judgment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

for the day of judgment and the destruction of the ungodly people

This can be stated with verbal phrases. AT: "for the day when he judges and destroys ungodly people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 3:8-9

It should not escape your notice

"You should not fail to understand this" or "Do not ignore this"

that one day with the Lord is like a thousand years

"that from the Lord's point of view, one day is like a thousand years"

The Lord does not move slowly concerning his promises

"The Lord does not move slowly to fulfill his promises"

as some consider slowness to be

Some people think that the Lord is slow to fulfill his promises because their perspective of time is different than God's.

translationWords

2 Peter 3:10

However

Although the Lord is being patient and wants people to repent, he will indeed return and bring judgment.

the day of the Lord will come as a thief

Peter speaks of the day when God will judge everyone as if it were a thief who will unexpectedly and take people by surprise. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

The heavens will pass away

"The heavens will disappear"

The elements will be burned with fire

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God will burn the elements with fire" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

The elements

Possible meanings are 1) the heavenly bodies, such as the sun, moon, and stars or 2) the things that make up heaven and earth, such as soil, air, fire, and water.

the earth and the deeds in it will be revealed

God will see all the earth and all the deeds of everyone, and he will then judge everything. This can be stated in active terms. AT: "God will expose the earth and everything that people have done on it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 3:11-13

Connecting Statement:

Peter begins to tell the believers how they should live as they wait for the day of the Lord.

Since all these things will be destroyed in this way

This can be stated in active form. AT: "Since God will destroy all these things in this way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

what kind of people should you be?

Peter uses this rhetorical question to emphasize what he will say next, that they "should live holy and godly lives." AT: "you know what kind of people you should be." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the heavens will be destroyed by fire, and the elements will be melted in great heat

This can be stated in active form. AT: "God will destroy the heavens by fire, and he will melt the elements in great heat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the elements

Possible meanings are 1) the heavenly bodies, such as the sun, moon, and stars or 2) the things that make up heaven and earth, such as soil, air, fire, and water. See how you translated this in 2 Peter 3:10.

where righteousness will dwell

Peter speaks of "righteousness" as if it were a person. This is a metonym for people who are righteous. AT: "where righteous people will dwell" or "where people will live righteously" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

2 Peter 3:14-16

do your best to be found spotless and blameless before him, in peace

This can be stated in active form. AT: "do your best to live in a way so that God will find you spotless and blameless, and be at peace with him and each other" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

spotless and blameless

The words "spotless" and "blameless" mean basically the same thing and emphasize moral purity. AT: "completely pure" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

spotless

Here this stands for "faultless." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

consider the patience of our Lord to be salvation

Because the Lord is patient, the day of judgment has not yet happened. This gives people an opportunity to repent and be saved, as he explained in 2 Peter 3:9. AT: "Also, think about the patience of our Lord as giving you an opportunity to repent and be saved" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

according to the wisdom that was given to him

This can be stated in active form. AT: "according to the wisdom that God gave to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Paul speaks of these things in all his letters

"Paul speaks of the patience of God leading to salvation in all his letters"

in which there are things that are difficult to understand

There are things in Paul's letters that are difficult to understand.

Ignorant and unstable men distort these things

Ignorant and unstable men misinterpret the things that are difficult to understand in Paul's letters.

Ignorant and unstable

"Unlearned and unsteady." These men have not been taught how to properly interpret scripture and are not well established in the truth of the gospel.

to their own destruction

"resulting in their own destruction"

translationWords

2 Peter 3:17-18

Connecting Statement:

Peter finishes instructing the believers and ends his letter.

since you know about these things

"These things" refers to the truths about the patience of God and the teachings of these false teachers.

guard yourselves

"protect yourselves"

so that you are not led astray by the deceit of lawless people

Here "led astray" is a metaphor for being persuaded to do something wrong. This can be stated in active form. AT: "so that lawless people do not deceive you and cause you do something wrong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you lose your own faithfulness

Faithfulness is spoken of as if it were a possession that believers could lose. AT: "you stop being faithful" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

Here growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord represents experiencing his grace more and knowing him more. The abstract noun "grace" can be expressed with the phrase "act kindly." AT: "receive more of the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and know him more" or "be more aware of how our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ acts kindly toward you, and know him better" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

translationWords