2 Peter 1:20 (KJV)

What does 2 Peter 1:20 mean?

2 Peter 1:20 says that no prophecy in the Bible comes from someone's own private explanation or personal idea. The verse stresses that the meaning of scriptural prophecy is not up to individual interpretation but has a source and meaning beyond any one person's opinion.

Peter is writing to early Christians, reminding them that the prophecies found in Scripture are not just human thoughts or inventions. In the context of this letter, Peter is emphasizing the reliability and divine origin of biblical prophecy, setting up his argument that these messages come from God, not from the prophets themselves.

The Greek behind 2 Peter 1:20

• "Private" (ἰδίας, idias): This word means "one's own" or "private." Peter is highlighting that prophecy does not originate from a prophet's personal insight or agenda.
• "Interpretation" (ἐπιλύσεως, epilyseōs): This term refers to "explanation" or "unraveling." The verse is often understood as saying that the meaning of prophecy is not something each person can decide for themselves, but is tied to its divine source.
• "Prophecy" (προφητεία, prophēteia): This word refers specifically to messages from God delivered through chosen individuals. Peter is focusing on these as having authority beyond human invention.

Why 2 Peter 1:20 matters

• This verse corrects the idea that anyone can interpret biblical prophecy however they wish, emphasizing that prophecy has a meaning rooted in God’s intention, not personal opinion.
• It sets up the next verse (2 Peter 1:21), which explains that prophecy comes as people are moved by the Holy Spirit, not by their own will.
• The verse encourages readers to approach Scripture with humility, recognizing that its true meaning is not determined by private ideas but by its divine origin.