2 Peter 1:13 (KJV)

What does 2 Peter 1:13 mean?

2 Peter 1:13 means that Peter, as long as he is alive in his physical body, feels it is right to keep reminding his readers about important truths. He wants to keep their attention focused and alert by bringing these things to their memory.

Peter is writing to believers, likely scattered Christians, and he refers to his body as a "tabernacle," meaning a temporary dwelling. He sees it as his responsibility, while he is still alive, to keep stirring up their minds so they do not forget what matters most in their faith.

The Greek behind 2 Peter 1:13

• "Tabernacle" (σκῆνος, skēnos): This word means a tent or temporary shelter. Peter uses it to describe his body, emphasizing that life on earth is temporary.
• "Stir up" (διεγείρω, diegeirō): This word means to awaken or arouse. Peter’s goal is to keep his readers spiritually alert and not let them become complacent.
• "Remembrance" (ὑπόμνησις, hypomnēsis): This word means a reminder or act of recalling. Peter’s method is to keep reminding them, not just teaching new things, but helping them remember what they already know.

Why 2 Peter 1:13 matters

• This verse shows Peter’s pastoral heart and sense of duty, wanting to encourage and remind rather than introduce new teachings.
• By calling his body a "tabernacle," Peter highlights the temporary nature of earthly life and the importance of focusing on lasting spiritual truths.
• The verse connects to the wider passage, where Peter is preparing his readers for his own death and urging them to hold firmly to what they have learned.