2 Peter 1:20–21

Context

2 Peter is a letter written in the name of the apostle Peter. Tradition holds that Peter himself wrote it, while some scholars hold that a later disciple wrote it in his name. In 1:16–18 the author testifies that he personally witnessed the glory of Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration. In verse 19 he likens "a more sure word of prophecy" to "a light that shineth in a dark place." Verses 20–21 explain why that prophecy, namely the prophecy of the Old Testament Scriptures, is trustworthy. Chapter 2 then warns against "false teachers." The passage therefore serves to establish the source of true prophecy in contrast to false teaching.

Interpretation

The phrase "private interpretation" in verse 20 renders a Greek expression meaning "one's own interpretation." Readings differ according to what this phrase is taken to refer to.

• As referring to the origin of prophecy: On this view, the verse means that the prophets did not devise their prophecies from their own thoughts or interpretations. Proponents argue that this reading fits the context, since verse 21 begins with "for" and goes on to speak of the source of prophecy. Many Protestant commentators adopt this reading.
• As referring to the reader's interpretation: On this view, the verse means that Scripture must not be interpreted according to individual preference. The Catholic Church cites this passage in support of the principle that Scripture is to be interpreted within the teaching of the Church. Protestants who read it this way understand it to mean that Scripture should interpret Scripture and should be read within the community of faith.

The phrase "moved by" in verse 21 means "carried along," as by the wind. Conservative Reformed and evangelical interpreters take this passage, together with 2 Timothy 3:16, as a basis for holding that all of Scripture is the Word of God, and connect it with the doctrine of biblical inerrancy. Others emphasize that, alongside the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the personalities and historical circumstances of the human authors were also at work.

Debates and Issues

• Interpretive authority: After the Reformation, this passage was cited in the debate between Catholics and Protestants over where the authority to interpret Scripture lies.
• Claims to an interpretive monopoly: Some have cited this passage to claim that only a particular leader or group can rightly interpret Scripture. In response, others argue that the passage speaks only of the source of prophecy and does not grant any individual a monopoly on interpretation.
• Manuscript differences: In verse 21, some manuscripts read "holy men of God" in place of "from God." The King James Version is understood to follow this reading.

Perspective: Korean Protestant practiceHow this idea is used in Korean churches, kept from the original Korean article.

In Korean Protestant churches, the passage is frequently cited alongside 2 Timothy 3:16 in Bible study and doctrinal instruction to explain the view that Scripture is the Word of God.

Related Passages

• 2 Timothy 3:16
• 2 Peter 1:16–19
• 2 Peter 3:15–16
• John 10:35
• Jeremiah 23:16