Read:
- Introduction to the Second Letter of Saint Peter
- Chapter 1 (2 Peter 1:1-21)
Information:
- A brief summary of the introduction to the Second Letter of Peter is found on the“James, 1,&2 Peter, Jude” page.
- Through the power of God, we are given all that we need to be holy and obtain admission into Heaven. (see 2 Peter 1:3-4)
- It is our responsibility to grow in holiness by strengthening our faith with virtue, adding knowledge to virtue, adding self-control to knowledge, and increasing our steadfastness with self-control. From there, turn our steadfastness to godliness and our godliness to brotherly affection, and above all, turn our brotherly affection into love (see 2 Peter 1:5-9). The more we work towards these things, the less likely we are to fall back into sin, therefore, the better our chances of going to Heaven (see 2 Peter 1:10-11). As long as St. Peter was alive, he promised to help remind Christians of their responsibility to grow in holiness. He also states that after his death, we will still be able to recall the responsibilities he lists. In other words, he tells his followers to continue teaching these instructions after him (see 2 Peter 1:13-15).
- St. Peter was not a fake. He actually witnessed Jesus and His miracles firsthand. Therefore, his testimony can be trusted. (see 2 Peter 1:16-18) In turn, we would be wise to follow his teachings until the end of time. (see 2 Peter 1:19).
- Only by the Holy Spirit can one speak for God. (see 2 Peter 1:20-21)
Questions:
- What verse(s) stood out to you and why?
- Answer the questions found in your study guide and/or in the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible – The First Letter of Saint James, Peter, and Jude.
Life Giving Bread 