2 Peter 1:16
For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
2 Peter 1:16 · King James Version
Meaning
When the apostle Peter wrote these words, he was emphasizing the authenticity and truth of the message he and the other disciples were proclaiming about Jesus Christ. Peter wanted to emphasize to the early Christians that their faith was not founded on myths or made-up stories, but on real historical events witnessed by the apostles themselves. By stating that they were eyewitnesses of Jesus' majesty, Peter was highlighting the fact that he had personally seen and experienced the power and glory of Christ. This verse serves as a reminder to readers that the teachings about Jesus were not mere stories passed down through generations, but were based on firsthand accounts of those who had seen and experienced Jesus' ministry, death, and resurrection. It reinforces the credibility and authority of the apostles' message, encouraging believers to trust in the truth of the gospel they were proclaiming.
Theological Overview
When examining the verse, "For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty," it is important to consider the theological implications behind these words. The author emphasizes the authenticity and reliability of the message being shared, asserting that it is not based on myths or fabricated stories. Instead, the proclamation of the power and coming of Jesus Christ is rooted in firsthand experiences of the eyewitnesses who beheld His majesty. This highlights the significance of the apostolic testimony and the credibility of the message being proclaimed. The mention of being eyewitnesses serves to reinforce the truth of the gospel message and the importance of personal encounters with the divine. Overall, this verse underscores the foundation of the Christian faith in historical events and real-life experiences, establishing a solid theological basis for belief in the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Peter 1:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
For we did not follow cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
World English Bible
For we did not follow cunningly devised fables, when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
Douay-Rheims
For we have not by following artificial fables made known to you the power and presence of our Lord Jesus Christ: but we were eyewitnesses of his greatness.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For we followed not deceiuable fables when we opened vnto you the power, and comming of our Lord Iesus Christ, but with our eyes we saw his maiestie: