In 2 Peter 2:10–16 the apostle gives us a lot of information about the things that the heretics do. Painting a vivid picture of their sins, he wants believers to know who they really are so as not to be deceived by their lies. By sharing this information Peter is helping the church to recognize the wolves who come in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15), so that Christian believers will be encouraged to keep pursuing godliness (2 Peter 1:5–10) even if the heretics say that godliness does not matter.
Do not listen to the heretics, because they are arrogant (2 Peter 2:10–11). Rejecting God’s order and those in authority, they do not behave in a manner that recognizes their true human position. Are we truly stronger than angels? Do we know better than them? Can we pretend that the angels are unnecessary and subservient to us? The heretics play God by uttering all sorts of judgments on anything and everything, dethroning all authority as if they only are inspired.
In terms of application for today, we should be careful of making judgments in matters that do not concern us. It is not our task to decide who is right and wrong when it comes to the various intricate relationships that exist between people. Precise knowledge is required to make good judgments, and where that knowledge is limited, we should show charity and love. In particular this is relevant when it comes to the way we speak about those in authority—whether it be school teachers or government officials. We should treat them and their decisions with respect rather than thinking we know better.
Do not listen to the heretics because they behave like animals and are destined to judgment (2 Peter 2:12). Heretics have an opinion on all matters, acting as if they alone know what is best. In reality their reflection is driven by feeling and desire rather than careful study of Scripture or facts. This rebellious behaviour leads to judgment as certainly as animals are slaughtered for food.
In terms of application, let us be careful when it comes to decision-making. Our feelings and desires have a big impact on what we want to be true and thus they effect they way in which we read the Bible. As a result it is always a good idea to read the Bible together with other believers, not only those from our age but also those who lived before us. Church history is important if we are going to prevent our feelings and desires from influencing interpretation.
Do not listen to the heretics because they are blots and blemishes (2 Peter 2:13–14). The way in which they behave is shameful. There is no concern for God’s glory, their focus is only money and sex. God wants his church to pursue purity and those who indulge their sinful desires will be paid back for the harm they have done.
In terms of application there are many. For one, the presence of heretics at feasts speaks to a lack of church discipline. Church discipline is one of the marks of the true church. Those who refuse to submit to Christ in terms of doctrine and life must not be allowed to participate in holy communion even if they claim to be Christian. Additionally, it will be a good idea for churches to establish practices that protect church members from sexual predators. Especially children need to be safeguarded. Also, those who are new to the Christian faith must be catechized. If we want to prevent heretics from influencing and seducing the unstable, then we must teach clear Christian biblical doctrine. In the early church, catechism took the best part of three years. We should be willing to do the same today.
Do not listen to the heretics because they follow the ways of Balaam and will be destroyed (2 Peter 2:15–16). Even though they claim to have greater spiritual insights and knowledge, knowledge that allows them to indulge their desires, in reality they follow the way of Balaam and they will face judgment. They are mad to think that they can ignore God’s Word and there will be no consequences.
In terms of application we can consider how greed is a big motive for many of our actions and what we can do to guard against it. Just like the heretics we will be tempted by money, we will want to do things that enable us to live in comfort. To prevent ministers from exploiting church members for money, it will be a good idea to establish a financial committee that supervises church finances and reports back to the church. The minister himself should also not expect to receive more money than what church members generally earn in any given month. He should have the same living standard as the rest of the congregation.
10 and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority.Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones,