2 Peter 2:15 – They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Bezer, who loved the wages of wickedness.
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Peter is pointing to the behavior of false teachers and ungodly leaders. He says they have left the straight way—meaning, they have turned away from the truth and the path that leads to God. Instead of following the right way, they have wandered off after the path of a man named Balaam, whose story is told in the Old Testament.
Balaam was a prophet who knew about God, but he cared more about money and personal gain than about truth or obedience. He was willing to use his spiritual position for profit, even if it meant harming others. Peter says these false teachers are following Balaam’s example—they are led by greed and wickedness, not by love for God or His people.
Historical Context
Balaam’s story is found in Numbers 22-24 and referred to again in Numbers 31:16. He was hired by a king named Balak to curse the people of Israel. Though God warned Balaam not to do it, Balaam still found a way to profit from the situation. Later, Balaam advised Balak to lead Israel into sin through sexual immorality and idolatry, causing great harm.
By mentioning Balaam, Peter connects the false teachers of his day to a long history of people who misuse spiritual things for selfish reasons.
Theological Implications
This verse shows us that it is possible to know about God but still choose to walk away from Him. It warns that greed and selfish desires can lead a person far from the truth.
It also reminds us that turning away from the right path doesn’t happen accidentally—it’s a choice to wander off, led by the desire for the wages of wickedness (the benefits of sin).
Literary Analysis
Peter uses strong, straightforward language:
- “Left the straight way” — emphasizes that these people once knew the right path but deliberately chose to leave it.
- “Wandered off” — suggests they didn’t stumble but walked away willingly.
- “Way of Balaam“ — uses a well-known biblical example to highlight the seriousness of their greed.
- “Loved the wages of wickedness” — shows that their hearts were drawn to what sin could give them.
The structure of the verse is short but weighty, packed with meaning and warning.
Cross-References
- Numbers 22–24 – Balaam’s story and his attempt to curse Israel.
- Numbers 31:16 – Balaam’s involvement in leading Israel into sin.
- Jude 1:11 – A warning about people who follow Balaam’s path.
- 1 Timothy 6:10 – “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”
- Matthew 7:13-14 – Jesus speaks of the narrow way that leads to life.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believer, this verse is a clear warning to stay on the straight path. There are many voices, even religious ones, who are motivated by money, power, or self-interest rather than by love for God.
It is also a reminder that knowing about God is not enough. What matters is whether we walk in obedience and truth. The temptation to wander after what looks profitable or comfortable is real, but it leads to destruction.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown here through Peter’s warning. God cares about His people enough to call out those who misuse their position and lead others astray. He is not silent about greed, corruption, or rebellion.
God’s love is not only about comfort—it’s also about truth. He wants His people to stay on the path that leads to life, not to be misled by those chasing after personal gain.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus taught clearly about the dangers of false teachers and the love of money (Matthew 6:24; Matthew 7:15-20). He called His followers to walk the narrow way that leads to life, not the broad path that leads to destruction.
Unlike Balaam and the false teachers Peter describes, Jesus did not seek personal gain. He laid down His life for others and taught His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him (Luke 9:23).
Through Jesus, believers are called to live for truth, love, and faithfulness—not for selfish gain.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Peter compares false teachers to Balaam?
- What does it mean to “leave the straight way,” and how can that happen in a person’s life?
- How can greed and the desire for personal gain lead people away from God?
- What are some ways you can guard your heart against wandering off the right path?
- How does Jesus’ example of selflessness challenge the love of money and selfish ambition described here?