Scripture
Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ,
To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours:
2 Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
Reflection
II Peter is a letter written by Simon Peter, a man who knew Jesus personally, was a leader of the early church and was nearing the end of his life. As such, this letter can be seen as a sort of ‘final encouragement’ to believers in the region. In the letter, Peter writes, “grace and peace be yours in abundance through knowledge of our God and Jesus our Lord.” A big theme for Peter is ‘knowledge of God,’ which is the foundation for our spiritual lives.
By “knowledge of God,” Peter is not saying we should merely know things about God. He is saying we should know God personally and intimately. We are invited to be in relationship with God.
Peter knew firsthand how transformative it is to know Jesus. He followed Christ, listened to His teachings, saw Him heal people, witnessed how Jesus treated people, saw with his own eyes the miracles of Jesus and even met Jesus after the resurrection. Peter also experienced firsthand the forgiveness of Jesus and was called to be “the rock the church was built on.” Peter was transformed by knowing Jesus. And you can too!
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Pray for someone you may know who is in need of physical healing.
