Observation: As Peter reminds the reader to wait patiently for the revelation of Christ, he reinforces Paul's writings. Pointing out that they are sometimes complex and hard to understand, he also says that some people - those who are 'ignorant' and 'unstable' - will twist Paul's teaching ... just as they have other scriptures.
The twisting of scripture has gone on for centuries. Peter is aware how the Jews have taken the law and prophets, and turned them into self-serving messages. The messages and rules and predictions can be leveraged by some to advance their agendas or even themselves. However, Peter also says what this behavior produces ... their own destruction. When someone twists the word of God into something for their own advancement, they fail to observe and obey the Lord, which will create a blocking issue in their life.
Application: Peter places Paul's letters, in fact the writing of all apostles, on peer with the writings of Jeremiah, Isaiah, and Moses. They are all scripture. And as such, they fall into two categories of usage. They are either valuable for teaching and instructing, or they will be twisted for the gain of "unstable" people to justify and advance their own agendas.
I see this when people look to apply specific verses to legalistic arguments in the church. I see it when people can take specific verses and use it to justify their 'side' in a conflict, and in this case it is most obvious when both sides of the conflict use the bible as their defense.
I have thoughts about what the bible says on certain issues. I need to test my thoughts against the Holy Spirit, and ensure I am not being ignorant and unstable ... that I am not twisting scripture to align to my thoughts, but am rather aligning my thoughts to the word and teaching of the Lord. As I have meditated on several times recently, the Lord must be my only source of truth, knowledge, and understanding of what is good.
Prayer: Lord, may I meditate on your word alone more and more. I desire this discipline in my life. In my quiet and restful times, help me to set my mind on things above, and on your teachings. Amen.
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