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.
2 Peter 3:16
Peter acknowledges that Paul’s writings contain “hard to be understood” passages. Some readers distort these writings, twisting them to justify sin or to destabilize faith. The verse warns against misinterpretation by the unlearned and unstable, who use Scripture to their own destruction. The broader concern is doctrinal integrity and the danger of topical cherry-picking within the apostolic message. This verse emphasizes both the trustworthiness of Paul’s epistles within Scripture and the need for careful, thoughtful study, guided by the Spirit and the church’s teaching authority.
This highlights the doctrine of Scripture’s authority, the relationship between different New Testament writings, and the necessity for faithful exegesis. It also warns about hermeneutical misuse and spiritual danger when Scripture is misread.
Commit to sound Bible study: consult commentaries, use reliable translations, and discuss challenging passages in community. When you encounter difficult verses, seek guidance, avoid dogmatic misreadings, and test interpretations against the whole counsel of God.
Cross-References: 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Peter 1:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; Acts 17:11; 1 Corinthians 2:12-14