2 Peter 2:6
And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;
2 Peter 2:6 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse refers to the destruction of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah in the Bible. The cities were known for their wickedness and immorality, particularly the practice of homosexuality. God decided to punish the cities for their sins, and brought fire and brimstone down upon them, destroying them completely. The verse serves as a warning to those who live ungodly lives, showing that God will not tolerate sin indefinitely. It serves as an example of the consequences of a sinful lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of living a righteous and moral life according to God's laws. By using Sodom and Gomorrah as an example, the verse teaches that those who continue to live in sin will face condemnation and destruction in the eyes of God.
Theological Overview
The verse in question refers to the destruction of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah as a warning to those who choose to live ungodly lives. The phrase "turning... into ashes" highlights the complete devastation that befell these cities due to their sinful behavior. The word "condemned" underscores the divine judgment and punishment that resulted from their wickedness. This event serves as a cautionary tale, an example, or "ensample," to those who would follow in the same ungodly path. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the consequences of living a life contrary to God's will, as seen in the ultimate destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Word studies of terms like "ensample" can further illuminate the significance of this warning, showing how the actions of the past can serve as a lesson for future generations on the importance of living in accordance with God's teachings.
2 Peter 2:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, having made them an example unto those that should live ungodly;
World English Bible
and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, having made them an example to those who would live ungodly;
Douay-Rheims
And reducing the cities of the Sodomites and of the Gomorrhites into ashes, condemned them to be overthrown, making them an example to those that should after act wickedly,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And turned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrhe into ashes, condemned them and ouerthrewe them, and made them an ensample vnto them that after should liue vngodly,