One of the most challenging issues Israel faced was the prevalence of false prophets. Partly this was because there were so many of them (e.g., Jer. 26:7–9), but also because they did not tell people the truth, but what they would rather hear (e.g., Jer. 27:9–10). They did not become prophets out of devotion to the Lord, but for their own financial gain (Jer. 6:13). Their false teaching was part of the reason Israel ended up in exile under God’s judgment.
Peter was concerned about a similar situation in the church. He knew false prophets and teachers would infiltrate the church (v. 1). They would deny the Lord Jesus and sow discord (v. 1). Even more worrisome, many people would follow them (v. 2). They were appealing and captivating. They were motivated by greed and willing to say just about anything for profit (v. 3).
Peter warns that these false prophets will be judged. For scriptural proof, he turns to three stories from the early chapters of Genesis: fallen angels (Gen. 6:1–8); the Flood (Gen. 6–9); and Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen.19). While the reference to the angels who sinned is a bit enigmatic, Peter’s point is that if God did not spare angels who sinned (v. 4), He will not spare these false teachers either. In Noah’s day, humanity had become so corrupt that God brought about the Flood (v. 5). Yet, God was able to make a distinction between the righteous and the wicked, sparing Noah and his family.
In a similar way, God judged Sodom and Gomorrah, but spared Lot (v. 7). The good news is that we worship a God who is passionate about truth and justice (vv. 9–10). It is also a call for us to be discerning about the teachers we allow to speak into our lives, which include books, podcasts, and social media.
Go Deeper
Are false teachers still a threat to the church and the believer today? How do we guard ourselves against them?
Pray with Us
Loving Father, this message about Your justice reminds us of Your great love for us. Give us discernment about the voices we listen to as we seek to know You better.
The Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to hold the unrighteous for punishment.2 Peter 2:9
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