Dr. Lawrence Butler

The Bridge Church, Pembroke

Lesson 7: Chap. 2:10-14 

If you have been following the studies presented previously, you are aware that Peter is warning future generations of Christians, such as us, that there have always been false teachers. He informs us that this unfortunate trend will continue, and provides a deeply revealing examination of the character of these teachers and ministers. False teaching results from ignoring the true God and accepting the works of the flesh in the heart. Such actions take one further from God than we can imagine. Look closely with me at the character revelations provided by Peter.

Sin is deeply grounded in their hearts and character. They “walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government” (v.10). They reject the power of any to hinder the satisfaction of their evil desires, thus answering the question of why they “despise government.” The failure to restrict sin leads to deeper and more vile sin. They dishonor human nature by their grossness and become little more than “natural brute beasts” (v.12) while demanding the release of any bond that prevents them from fulfilling their evil desires. We often wonder how such tragic sins could occur in our civilized society, but this is clearly the answer.

Peter also informs us that these false prophets have “eyes full of adultery” (v.14). The application of this expression seems to be that their eyes see only the adulteress. In other words, every woman is seen as a target, someone who will potentially satisfy their wicked desires. As William Barclay states,they have a constant desire to have more of something to which they had no right to desire, let alone have. They fought with their conscience until it was destroyed.

These wicked leaders, for so they are, whether political, social or religious, are described as being “presumptuous” (v.10). This means these people are bold, daring and audacious. They are not afraid nor ashamed of their actions. When their wickedness comes to light, they either lie about it or pass it off as unimportant.

Leaders such as these must never fill our pulpits, must never be respected or followed whatever position they hold! Let us pray that God will reveal the hearts of potential leaders before we allow them to fill such a role in our lives or our society. (For a deeper look at these sins, read Romans 1.)