Why remind believers of known truths?
Why does Peter emphasize reminding believers of truths they already know?

The Verse in Focus

“Therefore I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are established in the truth you now have.” (2 Peter 1:12)


Observations from 2 Peter 1:12

• Peter speaks to believers who already “know” and are “established.”

• He pledges to “always remind,” showing ongoing, intentional repetition.

• “These things” points back to vv. 3-11—God’s power, great promises, and the call to diligent growth in faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love.


Why Believers Need Repetition

• Spiritual forgetfulness

Deuteronomy 6:12: “be careful that you do not forget the LORD.”

– Our fallen nature drifts; reminders anchor us to truth.

• Protection against false teaching

2 Peter 2 warns of destructive heresies; grounding in truth safeguards hearts.

• Deepening conviction, not mere information

Philippians 3:1: “To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you.”

– Repetition moves knowledge from head to lifestyle.

• Ongoing sanctification

1 Corinthians 15:1-2: the gospel Peter and Paul preached continues to “save you, if you hold firmly.”

– Growth is progressive; reminders keep believers advancing.

• Peter’s imminent departure

2 Peter 1:13-15: he knows his death is near and wants enduring remembrance.

– Written repetition ensures the church retains apostolic teaching after he is gone.


How Scripture Models Reminding

• Moses rehearses God’s acts before Israel enters the land (Deuteronomy).

• Jesus repeats key truths: “Again, I tell you…” (Matthew 18:19).

• Paul’s letters circle back to gospel basics (Romans 1:16-17; Galatians 1:6-9).

• Jude 5: “Though you already know all this, I want to remind you…”


Practical Takeaways for Today

• Read and rehearse foundational doctrines—creation, fall, redemption, resurrection—because they steady the soul.

• Memorize Scripture; stored truth resurfaces when temptation or error arises.

• Listen gladly to sermons or studies that revisit “old” truths; maturity delights in reinforcement.

• Share reminders with others; teaching cements learning (2 Timothy 2:2).

• Keep visible prompts—notes, verses, symbols—so daily life echoes biblical realities.


Summing Up

Peter’s insistent reminders flow from a shepherd’s love. Truth repeated becomes truth retained, truth embodied, and truth defended.

What is the meaning of 2 Peter 1:12?
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