Topical Encyclopedia
Peter, also known as Simon Peter, is a central figure in the New Testament and one of Jesus Christ's twelve apostles. His conclusion, often referred to in theological discussions, pertains to his final teachings and exhortations found in the New Testament, particularly in the epistles attributed to him: 1 Peter and 2 Peter.
1 Peter:The First Epistle of Peter is addressed to the "elect exiles of the Dispersion" (
1 Peter 1:1), indicating its audience as believers scattered across various regions. The letter emphasizes themes of suffering, holiness, and hope. Peter encourages believers to endure trials with faith, reminding them of the living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ (
1 Peter 1:3-5). He calls for a life of holiness, urging Christians to "be holy, because I am holy" (
1 Peter 1:16), reflecting God's nature in their conduct.
Peter's conclusion in this epistle focuses on the importance of humility, vigilance, and steadfastness in faith. He exhorts the elders to shepherd God's flock willingly and eagerly, not lording over those entrusted to them but being examples to the flock (
1 Peter 5:2-3). He also advises the younger members to submit to their elders and for all to clothe themselves with humility, for "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (
1 Peter 5:5).
In his final remarks, Peter encourages believers to cast all their anxieties on God, who cares for them, and to be sober-minded and watchful against the devil, who prowls like a roaring lion (
1 Peter 5:7-8). He assures them that after they have suffered a little while, God will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish them (
1 Peter 5:10).
2 Peter:The Second Epistle of Peter addresses the challenges of false teachings and the importance of growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Peter emphasizes the divine power granted to believers for life and godliness through the knowledge of Christ (
2 Peter 1:3). He urges them to supplement their faith with virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love (
2 Peter 1:5-7).
Peter's conclusion in this epistle warns against false prophets and teachers who will secretly introduce destructive heresies (
2 Peter 2:1). He describes the certainty of God's judgment upon such individuals and the deliverance of the righteous, drawing examples from the past, such as Noah and Lot (
2 Peter 2:5-9).
In the final chapter, Peter addresses the skepticism regarding the Lord's return, affirming that the Lord is not slow in keeping His promise but is patient, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance (
2 Peter 3:9). He describes the day of the Lord as coming like a thief, with the heavens passing away and the elements being destroyed by fire (
2 Peter 3:10).
Peter concludes with an exhortation to live holy and godly lives, looking forward to the new heavens and a new earth where righteousness dwells (
2 Peter 3:11-13). He encourages believers to be diligent, to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless, and to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (
2 Peter 3:14, 18).
Significance:Peter's conclusions in his epistles serve as a powerful reminder of the Christian call to holiness, perseverance in the face of trials, and vigilance against false teachings. His teachings underscore the importance of humility, faith, and the hope of Christ's return, providing guidance and encouragement for believers to live in accordance with God's will.
