2 Peter 1:20 – Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things.

Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, Peter is explaining how the Bible, specifically prophecy, came to be. He wants believers to understand one thing clearly: No part of Scripture came from a prophet’s own ideas, opinions, or private understanding. The words of prophecy were not invented by people. They didn’t make it up based on their own thoughts or personal wisdom.

Peter is warning against the false idea that the prophets of old simply wrote down their own interpretation of events. Instead, Scripture came from God Himself. It is not human speculation—it is God’s revealed truth.

This verse is important because it tells us that the Bible is not like any other book. Its message does not come from people but from God, through the prophets.

Historical Context

In Peter’s time, false teachers were attacking the authority of Scripture and questioning the promises about Jesus’ return. Some people were treating the prophets’ words as if they were just one opinion among many.

Peter is writing to set the record straight. He is reminding believers that the Old Testament Scriptures, especially the words of the prophets, are not based on human interpretation. They came from God Himself.

This verse is part of Peter’s larger effort in this chapter to defend the truth and authority of God’s Word.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches that:

1. Scripture is not man’s invention. It is not based on human opinion or private interpretation.

2. God is the source of prophecy. The words of the Bible were given by God, not dreamed up by men.

3. The authority of the Bible is rooted in God’s authorship. It is trustworthy because it is God’s Word.

This verse is a strong statement about the divine origin and authority of Scripture.

Literary Analysis

Peter’s language is clear and direct:

• Above all – He is stressing how important this truth is.

• No prophecy of Scripture – Refers to the entire body of prophetic writing in the Old Testament.

• Came about by the prophet’s own interpretation – Denies the idea that prophets were simply offering their own thoughts or analysis.

This verse leads into the next one (verse 21), which will explain how the prophets actually received God’s message.

Biblical Cross-References

• 2 Timothy 3:16 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”

• Hebrews 1:1-2 – “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets… but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son.”

• Jeremiah 1:9 – “Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, ‘I have put my words in your mouth.'”

• Isaiah 55:11 – God’s Word accomplishes what He desires and achieves His purposes.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that the Bible is not just another human book. It is the inspired Word of God. It’s not up for debate or personal rewriting. It does not change with the times or bend to human opinions.

This verse challenges believers to take the Bible seriously. Because it is not the product of human thinking, it has authority over our lives. It is trustworthy, reliable, and true.

It also warns against twisting Scripture or reading it as if it were just one viewpoint among many. God’s Word stands apart from all other words.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in that He chose to reveal Himself to people. He did not leave humanity guessing about who He is or what is true. Instead, He spoke clearly and directly through the prophets.

God’s love is seen in how He gave His Word so that people could know Him, trust Him, and follow Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse points to the larger truth that all Scripture ultimately leads to Jesus. The prophetic message that did not come from human invention pointed forward to the coming of the Messiah.

Relevant Scriptures:

• Luke 24:27 – Jesus explained how the prophets and Scriptures pointed to Him.

• John 5:39 – Jesus said, “These are the very Scriptures that testify about me.”

• Hebrews 1:1-2 – God spoke through the prophets and then through His Son.

The prophetic Word, inspired by God, prepares the way for Jesus and points people to Him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does knowing that Scripture is not based on human interpretation affect the way you read the Bible?

2. Why do you think Peter emphasized this truth to his readers?

3. How can you guard yourself against treating the Bible like just another human book?

4. In what ways do you see the love of God reflected in the fact that He gave us His Word?

5. How does this verse encourage you to trust the message of the Bible and follow Jesus more closely?