John Calvin Commentary 2 Peter 3:14

John Calvin Commentary

2 Peter 3:14

1509–1564
Protestant
John Calvin
John Calvin

John Calvin Commentary

2 Peter 3:14

1509–1564
Protestant
SCRIPTURE

"Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for these things, give diligence that ye may be found in peace, without spot and blameless in his sight." — 2 Peter 3:14 (ASV)

Wherefore. He justly reasons from hope to its effect, or the practice of a godly life; for hope is living and effective, and therefore it will inevitably attract us to itself. He, then, who waits for new heavens must begin with renewal within himself and diligently aspire to it. But those who cling to their own filth certainly think nothing of God’s kingdom and have no taste for anything except this corrupt world.

But we must notice that he says we ought to be found blameless by Christ; for by these words he intimates that while the world engages and engrosses the minds of others, we must cast our eyes on the Lord. He shows at the same time what real integrity is—namely, that which is approved by His judgment, and not that which gains the praise of men.

The word peace seems to be taken for a quiet state of conscience, founded on hope and patient waiting. For since so few turn their attention to the judgment of Christ, it follows that while they are carried headlong by their pressing lusts, they are simultaneously in a state of restlessness. This peace, then, is the quietness of a peaceable soul, which rests in the word of God.

It may be asked how anyone can be found blameless by Christ when we all struggle with so many deficiencies. But Peter here only points out the goal at which all the faithful ought to aim, though they cannot reach it until, having put off their flesh, they become completely united to Christ.