The Doom Awaiting False Teachers

Angels were created by God to serve him and do his bidding (Hebrews 1:7; Hebrews 1:14). To prove punishment surely waited for the false teachers mentioned in verse 3, Peter referred to some angels who violated God's will and were being held in bonds awaiting the day of judgment (Compare Judges 1:6). These verses do not reveal when these angels sinned, nor which angels they are. However, Peter did indicate they were held in a dark place until judgment arrived (2 Peter 2:4).

The second and third illustrations Peter used to prove punishment will surely come are both used by Jesus in Luke 17:26-29. Literally, Peter described Noah as a herald of what is right in God's sight. Despite the fact that he proclaimed it, the people continued on in their evil ways until God destroyed them. Peter did give a ray of hope when he mentioned the eight people who were saved. Anyone can be saved as Noah, his three sons and their wives were if he will strive to please God.

The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, brought on by God's judgment, is described in Genesis 19:1-26. It came upon them because of homosexuality (Judges 1:7), pride, abundant idleness and a refusal to help the poor and needy (Ezekiel 16:48-50). God intended for this destruction to stand as a reminder to all who would live ungodly in the future (2 Peter 2:5-6).

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