2 Peter 3:3 – “Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Peter is giving a serious warning to believers. He says, “Above all,” meaning this is something they cannot afford to ignore. He wants them to understand that in the “last days” — the time between Jesus’ first coming and His return — there will be people who mock the truth. These scoffers will make fun of God’s promises, especially the promise that Jesus is coming back. They will laugh at believers and try to make them doubt.
But Peter makes it clear why these scoffers act this way. It’s not just because they have honest questions — it’s because they want to keep living for themselves. They follow their own evil desires, and making fun of God helps them feel better about ignoring Him.
Historical Context
At the time Peter wrote this letter, Christians were facing pressure and persecution. Many were wondering why Jesus hadn’t returned yet, and false teachers were taking advantage of this doubt. These false teachers were mocking the idea of Jesus’ return and encouraging people to live however they wanted, without thinking about God’s judgment.
Peter is preparing the church. He knows that scoffers are not new — they’ve always been around — but in these “last days,” they will become louder and bolder. He wants believers to expect this so they won’t be surprised or shaken by it.
Theological Implications
This verse shows that opposition to God’s truth is not accidental. It’s rooted in the human heart’s desire to rebel and live without accountability. Peter is teaching that scoffing and mockery are signs of a deeper problem — a rejection of God and His authority.
It also reminds believers that the “last days” began when Jesus rose from the dead and will continue until He returns. So this warning is not just for people in Peter’s day but for every generation of believers.
Literary Analysis
Peter uses strong, clear language in this verse. The phrase “above all” shows the importance of what he’s about to say. The word “scoffers” paints a picture of people who aren’t just disagreeing but actively mocking and ridiculing the truth. The repetition of “scoffing” emphasizes how determined they are to tear down what believers hold dear.
The verse also shows a connection between words and actions. These scoffers mock the truth because they want to keep living in sin without feeling guilty.
Cross-References
- Jude 1:18 – “They said to you, ‘In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.'”
- Proverbs 21:24 – “The proud and arrogant person—’Mocker’ is his name—behaves with insolent fury.”
- 2 Timothy 3:1-5 – Paul also warned that in the last days, people would be lovers of themselves and reject the truth.
- Psalm 1:1 – Warns about sitting in the company of mockers.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a real and needed warning. We live in a world where God’s truth is often mocked. People question the Bible, laugh at the idea of Jesus’ return, and encourage others to live however they want without thinking about consequences.
Peter’s words remind us not to be surprised when this happens. Instead, we should expect it, stand firm in what we know is true, and keep living for God even when others laugh at us or call us foolish.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Some might wonder, “If God is loving, why would He allow scoffers?” But this verse actually shows God’s love because He is warning His people ahead of time. God doesn’t want His children caught off guard or discouraged by the world’s mockery.
By telling us what to expect, God is protecting us and preparing us. He loves us enough to tell us the truth, even when it’s hard to hear.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Himself warned that people would reject Him and His message. He said in John 15:18-19 that the world would hate His followers because it first hated Him. He also taught in Matthew 24:10-12 that in the last days, many would turn away from the faith.
Peter’s warning connects directly to Jesus’ teaching. It reminds us that scoffers are proof that we are living in the last days and that Jesus’ return is still ahead.
Relevant passages:
- Matthew 24:37-39 – People will be living carelessly when the Son of Man returns.
- John 3:19-20 – People love darkness instead of light because their deeds are evil.
- 1 Peter 4:3-5 – Peter already spoke about people living for their desires and mocking believers.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever experienced people mocking or scoffing at your faith? How did you respond?
- Why do you think people are so quick to make fun of or question God’s promises?
- How does knowing that scoffers will come help you stay strong in your faith?
- What can you do to guard your heart against being influenced by the mockery of others?
- How does this verse encourage you to keep looking forward to Jesus’ return, even when the world laughs at the idea?