King James Version

What Does 2 Peter 1:21 Mean?

2 Peter 1:21 in the King James Version says “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost...” — study this verse from 2 Peter chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. in old time: or, at any time”

2 Peter 1:21 · KJV

Context

19

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

20

Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

21

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. in old time: or, at any time

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Chapter 1, verse 21 - Comprehensive theological analysis. Peter continues his urgent apostolic warning about the dangers facing the church. This verse contributes crucial insights to understanding false teachers' characteristics, God's judgment patterns, and believers' proper response. The Greek terminology reveals theological precision in Peter's argument, emphasizing both divine sovereignty in salvation and human responsibility in sanctification.

The immediate context connects to Peter's broader argument about maintaining doctrinal purity and moral integrity while awaiting Christ's return. Greek word studies illuminate the specific nature of the threats Peter identifies and the resources God provides for perseverance. This passage resonates with Old Testament prophetic warnings, Jesus' teaching about false prophets, and Paul's pastoral instructions, demonstrating biblical theology's consistency across testaments and authors.

Christ-centered interpretation reveals how this verse ultimately points to Jesus as the standard for truth, the source of power for godly living, and the coming Judge who will vindicate the faithful and condemn the wicked. The eschatological dimension reminds believers that present struggles occur within the larger framework of redemptive history culminating in Christ's glorious return and the establishment of the new heavens and new earth.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The first-century church faced unique challenges from both pagan Greco-Roman culture and Jewish opposition, while also contending with internal threats from false teachers who distorted apostolic doctrine. Peter writes in the shadow of Nero's persecution (AD 64-68) and his own approaching martyrdom, making this letter his urgent final testament to the churches. Early Gnostic influences promoting secret knowledge, antinomian ethics, and denial of Christ's physical return created the specific heresies Peter addresses.

Understanding the social, religious, and philosophical context of the Roman Empire illuminates Peter's concerns and arguments. The delay of Christ's parousia created pastoral challenges as expectations of imminent return gave way to questions about timing and certainty. Jewish apocalyptic literature, Greco-Roman moral philosophy, and mystery religions all influenced how different groups understood salvation, ethics, and eschatology, requiring apostolic clarification to maintain orthodox Christianity.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse challenge compromises you might be tempted to make for cultural acceptance or personal comfort?
  2. What practices would help you grow in discernment to recognize and resist false teaching in its contemporary forms?
  3. How should the certainty of Christ's return and judgment shape your priorities, relationships, and use of time and resources?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 17 words
οὐ1 of 17

“not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

γὰρ2 of 17

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

θελήματι3 of 17

“by the will”

G2307

a determination (properly, the thing), i.e., (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination

ἄνθρωποι4 of 17

“men”

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

φερόμενοι5 of 17

“as they were moved”

G5342

to "bear" or carry (in a very wide application, literally and figuratively, as follows)

ποτέ6 of 17

“in old time”

G4218

indefinite adverb, at some time, ever

προφητεία7 of 17

“the prophecy”

G4394

prediction (scriptural or other)

ἀλλ'8 of 17

“but”

G235

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

ὑπὸ9 of 17

“by”

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

πνεύματος10 of 17

“Ghost”

G4151

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

ἅγιοι11 of 17

“holy”

G40

sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

φερόμενοι12 of 17

“as they were moved”

G5342

to "bear" or carry (in a very wide application, literally and figuratively, as follows)

ἐλάλησαν13 of 17

“spake”

G2980

to talk, i.e., utter words

οἱ14 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἅγιοι15 of 17

“holy”

G40

sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

θεοῦ16 of 17

“of God”

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

ἄνθρωποι17 of 17

“men”

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Peter. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Peter 1:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Peter 1:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Timothy 3:15-171 Peter 1:112 Samuel 23:2Luke 1:70Acts 1:16Hebrews 10:15

Test Your Knowledge

2 Peter 1 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Peter Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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