2 Peter 1:18 We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.
Peter recalls now his experience of the transfiguration of Jesus mentioned in Matthew 17:5, Mark 9:7, and Luke 9:35. This reference to this event does several things in this passage. First, it confirms Peter as an eye witness and adds authority to everything he says in this letter. Second, it draws the readers’ attention to the person of Jesus and the glory and honor he received from God the Father. Third, it connects this letter to the accounts of the Gospels and brings unity to the New Testament. Fourth, it helps confirm the faith of the readers in Jesus. One of Peter’s goals in writing this letter is to help the readers grow in their faith and knowledge of Jesus. They were most likely second generation Christians. All they had to base their faith on was the testimony of people like Peter. Some of them may not have even seen an apostle or eye witness in person. They needed a first foundation upon which to build their faith. Peter connects their faith to historical events. He tells his readers that “we ourselves heard.” He and others (James and John) had seen the transfiguration. They were not making up any of this “good news” message. They were relaying what they had heard and experienced. If the readers would trust Peter’s words, they would grow in their faith. In fact, they had already begun to trust (“confirm your calling,” v. 10; “I will remind you of these things,” v. 12). They had begun their journey of faith and now needed encouragement. This is true for so many of us. We have faith, but the world around us raises doubts in our minds. Our faith grows weak through the constant bombardment of skepticism. We need constant reminding of who Jesus is and what he has done for us.
For older posts, click here.