What does 2 Peter 1:20 mean about interpreting Scripture?

Response

The book of 2 Peter 1:20 states, “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things.” Essentially, 2 Peter 1:20 highlights the origin of Old Testament prophecies, rather than addressing who holds the authority to interpret the Bible in present times.

Certain translations of the Bible may not make this distinction clear. For instance, the NASB states that prophecy is not “a matter of one’s own interpretation,” while the KJV mentions that Scripture is not “of any private interpretation.” However, Peter’s focus was not on guiding us on how to read or interpret God’s Word; he was emphasizing how God revealed His Word initially. To convince his audience to heed the gospel, Peter affirmed that his words were God’s words—just like the Old Testament prophecies.

The context further elucidates Peter’s message in verse 20: “We did not follow cleverly devised stories . . . but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. . . . We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven. . . . We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable. . . . No prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will” (2 Peter 1:16-21).

It is evident that Peter’s primary emphasis is not on the method of reading and comprehending God’s messages. Instead, he clarifies the authoritative origin and source of these prophecies. These messages were directly communicated by God through His chosen messengers. The prophets (including Peter) did not convey their own ideas but faithfully transmitted truths directly from God. Peter describes this process as speaking “from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (verse 21).

Peter’s objective was to prompt his readers to take his message about Jesus seriously, as he states in verse 19, “You [therefore]…”

It would be wise to heed [God’s message through me], like a beacon in a shadowy place.” Peter’s narrative about Jesus came directly from God.

Considering that the words of the Bible convey God’s ideas, not human ones, it is crucial that we show them reverence by examining them closely and comprehending what He intends for us to grasp as we interpret Scripture.