27 - 2 Peter - Partakers of the D

Discussion led by Robert J Matthews with participants:
- Professor Camille Franck
- Professor Victor L Ludlow
- Professor W Jeffrey Marsh
The focus is on the Second Epistle of Peter, authored by the Apostle Peter.

Reference to elder Bruce R. McConkey's statement:
- Peter presents doctrines emphatically and bluntly.
- Unique perspective on having a secure calling and election in the Lord's vineyard.
Joseph Smith's view:
- Peter’s language is profound and sublime, especially in 2 Peter.

Written a year or two after the First Epistle, likely from Rome.
Functions:
- A pastoral epistle to the saints, specifically in Asia Minor.
- A farewell and final testimony from Peter as he senses his imminent martyrdom.
Comparison between Peter’s earlier impetuousness versus his current mature and confident tone.
A call to other saints to seek spiritual growth and comfort amid trials.

Emphasis on escaping the corruption of the world (2 Peter 1:4):
- Life's purpose involves conquering evil and wickedness.
- Comparison with teachings from John and Mormon about overcoming sin.
Connection between prior teachings in 1 Peter 5:10:
- Jesus enables believers to be perfected and established.
Confirmation of Peter's experience leading to his authoritative testimony.

Introduction of a step-like process in verses 5-7:
- Start with faith, leading to virtue, knowledge, self-control (temperance), patience, godliness, brotherly kindness (Philadephia), and charity.
- Emphasis on the continual expansion of faith and spiritual attributes.
Charity defined as the pure love of Christ, emphasizing selflessness over selfishness.
Encouragement for believers to seek precious promises (v. 4) and ensure their calling and election (v. 10) through diligence.
The concept of a “more sure word of prophecy” introduced (v. 19).
Comparison of “to-do” lists vs. “to-become” lists in the journey of faith.

Knowledge is gained through experience and obedience as emphasized in Section 93.
A call for believers to engage in selflessness and service:
- Assurance comes not from self-seeking but through devotion to serving others.
Citing a patriarchal blessing as a foundational roadmap for spiritual guidance and personal assurance.
As believers complete their progression, they should not need to question their standing before God.

Growing concerns about false teachings and their consequences:
- Heresies that deny Christ (2:1).
- Truth misrepresented as evil (2:2).
- Exploitation and manipulation of people (2:3).
Specific behaviors and characteristics of false teachers:
- Lack of understanding and knowledge of righteousness (2:12).
- Openly sinning with public defiance (2:13).
- Engaging in lust and greed (2:14).
Peter’s stark warnings highlight the serious consequences of following such leaders:
- Cursed children, unjust punishment, and the mist of darkness reserved for them (2:17).

The first chapter highlights growth and divine attributes, while the second warns of the dark consequences of false teachings.
The necessity for believers to remain vigilant against deceptive philosophies disguised as truth.
Assurance from Peter about the promise of Christ's return, affirming hope for the righteous amidst a period of spiritual decay.

A promise that the Lord is not slack in fulfilling his promises (2 Peter 3:9).
Encouragement amidst scoffers who doubt the second coming of Christ.
Assertion that every promise made by God will be fulfilled, including the hope for eternal life.

Final words of the Epistle:
- Encourage growth in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Reflection on the importance of personal revelation and active engagement with divine commandments as keys to spiritual success.

The overarching message is a balanced interplay between warnings against spiritual dangers and assurance of divine promises.
A reminder for believers to cultivate genuine faith and strength in their spiritual journeys, rendering them witnesses of the truth rather than victims of deception.
Clarification that understanding one’s journey with Christ requires active participation and personal commitment to growth, with the ultimate goal of becoming like Him.