While preparing to preach from the second chapter of 2 Peter, I paused momentarily when my eyes focused upon the gloomy description found in verse 14. Here Peter writes:
"They have eyes full of adultery, insatiable for sin. They entice unsteady souls. They have hearts trained in greed. Accursed children!" (ESV)
Now in context this terrifying verse describes the false teachers that Peter was warning the church about in this letter. Yet, I also found a reason to once again rejoice in the Savior while reading this verse. Why? Well... I realize that apart from the glorious salvation that was so graciously and undeservedly provided for me at the cross of Christ, this verse would very accurately describe me!
What a humbling thought. A thought that my flesh rises up and finds offensive. Maybe you think I'm exaggerating. I wish it were so, but the truth is I not only was a great sinner, I am a great sinner. Remember Paul's words to Timothy? He said, "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the the foremost." (1 Timothy 1:15)
John Newton (who wrote Amazing Grace) would agree with the apostle Paul. As he so adequately stated near the end of his life: "My memory is nearly gone; but I remember two things: that I am a great sinner, and that Christ is a great Savior."
I am so grateful for Christ my Savior! I'm making it a habit to plant myself at the foot of the wondrous cross every time I open the pages of Scripture. And whenever the Bible gives detailed descriptions of sinful people like 2 Peter 2:14, I want to intentionally pause and thank God for providing a Savior and for pouring out His amazing grace on a wretch like me!
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