King James Version

What Does 2 Peter 2:7 Mean?

2 Peter 2:7 in the King James Version says “And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked:” — study this verse from 2 Peter chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked:”

2 Peter 2:7 · KJV

Salvation

Context

5

And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;

6

And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;

7

And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked:

8

(For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;)

9

The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Chapter 2, verse 7 - 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 · 12 words
καὶ1 of 12

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

δίκαιον2 of 12

“just”

G1342

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

Λὼτ3 of 12

“Lot”

G3091

lot, a patriarch

καταπονούμενον4 of 12

“vexed”

G2669

to labor down, i.e., wear with toil (figuratively, harass)

ὑπὸ5 of 12

“with”

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 (

τῆς6 of 12
G3588

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

τῶν7 of 12
G3588

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

ἀθέσμων8 of 12

“of the wicked”

G113

lawless, i.e., (by implication) criminal

ἐν9 of 12
G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

ἀσελγείᾳ10 of 12

“the filthy”

G766

licentiousness (sometimes including other vices)

ἀναστροφῆς,11 of 12

“conversation”

G391

behavior

ἐῤῥύσατο·12 of 12

“delivered”

G4506

compare g4511); to rush or draw (for oneself), i.e., rescue

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 2:7 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 2:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 19:16Genesis 19:29Genesis 19:7-8Genesis 19:22Genesis 13:131 Corinthians 10:13

Places in This Verse

SodomSettlement · Modern: south of the Lisan · 31.21°N, 35.45°E50 verses across 15 books
View all places in 2 Peter 2 →

Test Your Knowledge

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

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