Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. New Living Translation Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own desires. English Standard Version knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. Berean Standard Bible Most importantly, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. Berean Literal Bible first knowing this, that in the last days scoffers will come with scoffing, going according to their own passions King James Bible Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, New King James Version knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, New American Standard Bible Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, NASB 1995 Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, NASB 1977 Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, Legacy Standard Bible knowing this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, Amplified Bible First of all, know [without any doubt] that mockers will come in the last days with their mocking, following after their own human desires Berean Annotated Bible Most importantly, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires <Jud 1:18>. Christian Standard Bible Above all, be aware of this: Scoffers will come in the last days scoffing and following their own evil desires, Holman Christian Standard Bible First, be aware of this: Scoffers will come in the last days to scoff, living according to their own desires, American Standard Version knowing this first, that in the last days mockers shall come with mockery, walking after their own lusts, Contemporary English Version But first you must realize that in the last days some people won't think about anything except their own selfish desires. They will make fun of you English Revised Version knowing this first, that in the last days mockers shall come with mockery, walking after their own lusts, GOD'S WORD® Translation First, you must understand this: In the last days people who follow their own desires will appear. These disrespectful people will ridicule [God's promise] Good News Translation First of all, you must understand that in the last days some people will appear whose lives are controlled by their own lusts. They will make fun of you International Standard Version First of all you must understand this: In the last days mockers will come and, following their own desires, will ridicule us NET Bible Above all, understand this: In the last days blatant scoffers will come, being propelled by their own evil urges New Heart English Bible knowing this first, that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking and walking after their own lusts, Webster's Bible Translation Knowing this first, that there will come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, Weymouth New Testament But, above all, remember that, in the last days, men will come who make a mock at everything--men governed only by their own passions, Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleMost importantly, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, following their own evil desires. World English Bible knowing this first, that in the last days mockers will come, walking after their own lusts Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionknowing this first, that there will come scoffers in the last days, going on according to their own desires, Berean Literal Bible first knowing this, that in the last days scoffers will come with scoffing, going according to their own passions Young's Literal Translation this first knowing, that there shall come in the latter end of the days scoffers, according to their own desires going on, Smith's Literal Translation Knowing this first, that in the last of the days shall mockers come for deceiving, going according to their own eager desires, Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleKnowing this first, that in the last days there shall come deceitful scoffers, walking after their own lusts, Catholic Public Domain Version Know this first: that in the last days there will arrive deceitful mockers, walking according to their own desires, New American Bible Know this first of all, that in the last days scoffers will come [to] scoff, living according to their own desires New Revised Standard Version First of all you must understand this, that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and indulging their own lusts Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleKnowing this first, that there shall come in the last days mockers who scoff, following after their own lusts, Aramaic Bible in Plain English And as you knew this first, that in the end of days, scoffers would come who scoff while they walk according to their own lusts, NT Translations Anderson New Testamentknowing this first, that there will come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, Godbey New Testament knowing this first, that at the last days mockers will come forth in scoffing, walking according to their own lusts, Haweis New Testament knowing this principally, that in the last of the days there will come scoffers, walking after their own lewd passions, Mace New Testament Above all things you are to know, that in these last times, impostors will appear, who will abandon themselves to their own sensual passions, whose cry will be, Weymouth New Testament But, above all, remember that, in the last days, men will come who make a mock at everything--men governed only by their own passions, Worrell New Testament Knowing this first, that there will come in the last days scoffers with scoffing, walking after their own desires, Worsley New Testament that there will come in the last days scoffers, Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context The Coming Judgment…2by recalling what was foretold by the holy prophets and commanded by our Lord and Savior through your apostles. 3Most importantly, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. 4“Where is the promise of His coming?” they will ask. “Ever since our fathers fell asleep, everything continues as it has from the beginning of creation.”… Cross References Most importantly, you must understand 2 Timothy 3:1 But understand this: In the last days terrible times will come. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2 Now about the times and seasons, brothers, we do not need to write to you. / For you are fully aware that the Day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 2 Thessalonians 2:3 Let no one deceive you in any way, for it will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness—the son of destruction—is revealed. that in the last days Acts 2:17 ‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out My Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Hebrews 1:2 But in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He made the universe. 1 John 2:18 Children, it is the last hour; and just as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have appeared. This is how we know it is the last hour. scoffers will come, Jude 1:18 when they said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow after their own ungodly desires.” Proverbs 1:22 “How long, O simple ones, will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in their scorn and fools hate knowledge? 2 Chronicles 36:16 But they mocked the messengers of God, despising His words and scoffing at His prophets, until the wrath of the LORD against His people was stirred up beyond remedy. scoffing Proverbs 9:7-8 He who corrects a mocker brings shame on himself; he who rebukes a wicked man taints himself. / Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. Proverbs 21:24 Mocker is the name of the proud and arrogant man—of him who acts with excessive pride. 2 Kings 2:23-24 From there, Elisha went up to Bethel, and as he was walking up the road, a group of boys came out of the city and jeered at him, chanting, “Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!” / Then he turned around, looked at them, and called down a curse on them in the name of the LORD. Suddenly two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the boys. and following their own evil desires. Jude 1:16 These men are discontented grumblers, following after their own lusts; their mouths spew arrogance; they flatter others for their own advantage. Romans 1:24-25 Therefore God gave them over in the desires of their hearts to impurity for the dishonoring of their bodies with one another. / They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is forever worthy of praise! Amen. Ephesians 2:3 All of us also lived among them at one time, fulfilling the cravings of our flesh and indulging its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature children of wrath. 1 Timothy 4:1-2 Now the Spirit expressly states that in later times some will abandon the faith to follow deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons, / influenced by the hypocrisy of liars, whose consciences are seared with a hot iron. Treasury of Scripture Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, that there. 1 Timothy 4:1,2 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; … 2 Timothy 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 1 John 2:18 Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. scoffers. Proverbs 1:22 How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? Proverbs 3:34 Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly. Proverbs 14:6 A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth. walking. 2 Peter 2:10 But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. 2 Corinthians 4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. Jude 1:16,18 These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage… Jump to Previous Close End Evil First Following Governed Holy Last Mock Mockers Mockery Mocking Passions Remember Ruled Scoffers Scoffing Sport Understand WalkingJump to Next Close End Evil First Following Governed Holy Last Mock Mockers Mockery Mocking Passions Remember Ruled Scoffers Scoffing Sport Understand Walking2 Peter 3 1. He assures them of the certainty of Christ's coming to judgment;8. warning the godly, for the long patience of God, to hasten their repentance. 10. He describes also the manner how the world shall be destroyed; 11. exhorting them to all holiness of life; 16. and again to think the patience of God to tend to their salvation, as Paul wrote to them in his epistles. Most importantly, you must understand This phrase emphasizes the critical nature of the message that follows. The apostle Peter is urging believers to pay close attention to what he is about to say. This is a common biblical technique to highlight the importance of a teaching (see also 1 Peter 1:20). Understanding is not just intellectual but involves spiritual discernment, which is a recurring theme in the New Testament (Ephesians 1:17-18). that in the last days scoffers will come scoffing and following their own evil desires Persons / Places / Events 1. PeterThe apostle and author of this epistle, writing to encourage and warn believers about false teachings and the return of Christ. 2. Scoffers Individuals who mock or ridicule the truth of the Gospel, particularly concerning the return of Christ. 3. The Last Days A period often referred to in the New Testament, indicating the time between Christ's ascension and His second coming. 4. Believers The recipients of Peter's letter, who are being warned and encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith. 5. Evil Desires The sinful inclinations that drive the scoffers, leading them away from God's truth. Teaching Points Understanding the TimesRecognize that the presence of scoffers is a sign of the last days, as foretold in Scripture. This awareness should strengthen our faith and resolve. Guarding Against Deception Be vigilant in discerning truth from falsehood, especially in a world where scoffing and skepticism are prevalent. Living Righteously Despite the mockery of scoffers, believers are called to live according to God's standards, not following evil desires. Encouragement in Faith Take heart that the challenges faced by believers today were anticipated by the apostles, and God’s promises remain true. Witnessing Boldly Use the presence of scoffers as an opportunity to witness to the truth of the Gospel, demonstrating love and patience. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 2 Peter 3:3?2. How can we recognize "scoffers" in today's world as described in 2 Peter 3:3? 3. What does "following their own evil desires" mean in a modern context? 4. How does 2 Peter 3:3 connect with warnings in Jude 1:18? 5. How should believers respond to scoffers according to biblical teachings? 6. What practical steps can we take to guard against scoffers' influence? 7. What does 2 Peter 3:3 reveal about the nature of scoffers in the last days? 8. How does 2 Peter 3:3 challenge the belief in the Second Coming of Christ? 9. Why is the warning in 2 Peter 3:3 relevant to modern Christian faith? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Peter 3? 11. 2 Peter 3:3–4: Is the repeated delay of Christ’s return proof this prophecy isn’t true? 12. What does "Scoffers in the Last Days" signify? 13. What does 'Scoffers in the Last Days' signify? 14. Does 2 Peter 3:8 equate a thousand years to a day? What Does 2 Peter 3:3 Mean Most importantlyPeter opens with urgency: “Most importantly…” (2 Peter 3:3). He is highlighting that what follows is not a side issue but a truth believers must keep at the forefront. • The apostle has already stirred his readers to “recall these things” (2 Peter 1:12–15), and now he elevates the coming warning to highest priority. • Scripture often uses similar language when underscoring vital truths—“Above all, love each other deeply” (1 Peter 4:8) or “Above all else, guard your heart” (Proverbs 4:23). • By prefacing the statement this way, Peter is signaling that vigilance against spiritual complacency is essential for a faithful walk until Christ returns (cf. Matthew 24:42). You must understand The responsibility shifts to the reader: “you must understand.” • Faith is never passive; it involves attentive, informed discipleship (Acts 17:11). • Peter is echoing Jesus’ command, “See to it that no one deceives you” (Matthew 24:4). • Knowing the truth arms believers against error (Ephesians 4:14), so Peter urges intentional awareness rather than casual familiarity. That in the last days Peter places the warning in a time frame: “in the last days.” • Biblically, the “last days” began with Christ’s first coming (Acts 2:17; Hebrews 1:2) and stretch to His return. • This means Peter’s words applied to his readers and still apply today. • Paul gave a parallel list of last-days dangers—“difficult times will come” (2 Timothy 3:1)—reinforcing that believers should anticipate opposition throughout this entire era. Scoffers will come Opposition is personified: “scoffers will come.” • Jude offers an almost verbatim warning: “In the last time there will be scoffers” (Jude 18). • Scoffing goes beyond disagreement; it is a mocking, dismissive attitude toward God’s promises (Psalm 1:1). • Their arrival is certain (“will come”), proving God’s foreknowledge and reminding believers not to be shaken when ridicule surfaces (John 15:18). Scoffing Peter doubles the word, indicating persistent derision. • These mockers question the promise of Christ’s return (2 Peter 3:4), mirroring how people in Noah’s day ignored the coming flood (Luke 17:26–27). • By repeating “scoffing,” Peter shows that ridicule can be relentless, yet it is ultimately powerless against God’s timetable (Psalm 2:1–4). Following their own evil desires The root issue is moral, not merely intellectual. • Unbelief is tied to “evil desires,” echoing Romans 1:18–25 where people suppress truth to pursue sin. • James 1:14 explains that desire gives birth to sin; scoffers prefer autonomy over submission. • Earlier Peter warned of false teachers who “follow the corrupt desire of the flesh” (2 Peter 2:10), showing a consistent pattern: they reject divine authority so they can indulge self-centered cravings. summary Peter’s concise statement alerts believers to an ongoing reality: persistent mockers will emerge throughout the church age, driven by self-serving passions, deriding the very hope that sustains God’s people. Recognizing this foretold pattern keeps us anchored in confidence that Scripture is reliable, God’s timetable is unshakable, and steadfast faith is both necessary and victorious until the Lord’s promised return. SECOND PREDICTION: Scoffers shall throw doubt on Christ's return.(3) In the last days.--Comp. 1Peter 1:20; Hebrews 1:2; and the parallel passage to this, Jude 1:18. "Know this first, children, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts" is quoted in a homily attributed on doubtful authority to Hippolytus. (See above on 2Peter 2:1.) Scoffers.--The best authorities add "in scoffing," intensifying the meaning by repetition (as in Ephesians 1:3; Revelation 14:2; comp. Luke 22:15). There are other repetitions of this kind in the New Testament, which have been rendered by strengthening the verb in some other way (John 3:29; Acts 4:17; Acts 5:28; James 5:17). . . . Verse 3. - Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers. (For the irregular construction of γινώσκοντες, see Winer, 3:63, 2, a.) St. Peter has the words, "knowing this first," in 2 Peter 1:20, where he is speaking of the interpretation of prophecy; he repeats them now when referring to the scoffers who mocked at the long delay of the Lord's coming foretold by the prophets. (For "the last days," see note on 1 Peter 1:20.) The Revised Version has, "Mockers shall come with mockery." This represents the words ἐν ἐμπαιγμοπνῇ, found in nearly all the best manuscripts, which give emphasis to the expression after the Hebrew manner. The word ἐμπαιγμονή occurs nowhere else in the New Testament, and ἐμπαῖκται, scoffers, only in the parallel passage, Jude 1:18. Walking after their own lusts. Self-indulgence often leads to skepticism. This verse is quoted in a homily ascribed to Hippolytus.Parallel Commentaries ... Greek First of all,πρῶτον (prōton) Adverb - Superlative Strong's 4412: First, in the first place, before, formerly. Neuter of protos as adverb; firstly. you must understand γινώσκοντες (ginōskontes) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 1097: A prolonged form of a primary verb; to 'know' in a great variety of applications and with many implications. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction Strong's 3754: Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. in ἐπ’ (ep’) Preposition Strong's 1909: On, to, against, on the basis of, at. the τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Feminine Plural Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. last ἐσχάτων (eschatōn) Adjective - Genitive Feminine Plural Strong's 2078: Last, at the last, finally, till the end. A superlative probably from echo; farthest, final. days ἡμερῶν (hēmerōn) Noun - Genitive Feminine Plural Strong's 2250: A day, the period from sunrise to sunset. scoffers ἐμπαῖκται (empaiktai) Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 1703: A mocker, scoffer. From empaizo; a derider, i.e. a false teacher. will come, ἐλεύσονται (eleusontai) Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Plural Strong's 2064: To come, go. scoffing ἐμπαιγμονῇ (empaigmonē) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular Strong's 1701: Mockery, scoffing, scorn. From empaizo; derision. [and] following πορευόμενοι (poreuomenoi) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 4198: To travel, journey, go, die. their αὐτῶν (autōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Plural Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. own ἰδίας (idias) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Plural Strong's 2398: Pertaining to self, i.e. One's own; by implication, private or separate. evil desires. ἐπιθυμίας (epithymias) Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural Strong's 1939: Desire, eagerness for, inordinate desire, lust. From epithumeo; a longing. Links 2 Peter 3:3 NIV2 Peter 3:3 NLT 2 Peter 3:3 ESV 2 Peter 3:3 NASB 2 Peter 3:3 KJV 2 Peter 3:3 BibleApps.com 2 Peter 3:3 Biblia Paralela 2 Peter 3:3 Chinese Bible 2 Peter 3:3 French Bible 2 Peter 3:3 Catholic Bible NT Letters: 2 Peter 3:3 Knowing this first that in the last (2 Pet. 2P iiP ii Pet) |
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