What does the proverb in 2 Peter 2:22 reveal about human nature? Setting the Scene 2 Peter 2:22: “Of them the proverb is true: ‘A dog returns to its vomit,’ and, ‘A sow that is washed returns to her wallowing in the mud.’” The Proverb Explained • Peter cites Proverbs 26:11 word for word, then adds a companion picture of a freshly bathed pig diving back into sludge. • Both images are startling on purpose; they show creatures acting according to their unchanged nature even after an outward interruption. Human Nature Exposed • Left to itself, the heart gravitates back to what is familiar—even if it is destructive (Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:23). • Outward reform without inward rebirth cannot last. False teachers in Peter’s day looked “washed,” yet their core remained unregenerated. • Like dogs and pigs, people can temporarily leave sin for social, emotional, or religious reasons—but unless God gives a new nature, old appetites return (John 3:6–7). Sin’s Magnetic Pull • Sin promises comfort, control, or pleasure, luring us even after we’ve tasted its bitterness (Romans 6:16). • Without continual dependence on the Spirit, the flesh drags us backward (Galatians 5:17). True Transformation vs. External Clean-up External Clean-up - Behavior modified to fit a setting - Motivated by fear of consequences or desire for approval - Temporary; collapses under pressure True Transformation - Begins with the new birth (John 3:3) - Produces a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17) - Shows itself in ongoing repentance, love for truth, and growing holiness (Ephesians 4:22-24) Guarding Our Hearts • Feed on Scripture daily; truth retrains appetites (Psalm 19:7-11). • Walk by the Spirit, not the flesh (Galatians 5:16). • Keep short accounts with God; confess quickly (1 John 1:9). • Choose companions who stir up righteousness, not return trips to the pit (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Watch over your heart “with all diligence” (Proverbs 4:23). Promises for a New Nature • Ezekiel 36:26-27—“I will give you a new heart…and cause you to walk in My statutes.” • Philippians 1:6—He who began the good work will carry it on to completion. • Jude 24—He is able to keep you from stumbling. The proverb unmasks the pull of the unredeemed heart, warns against superficial religion, and points us to the only cure: the new, Spirit-empowered nature in Christ. |
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