Does God Really Not Wish That Any Should Perish? 2 Peter 3:9

by Dale Partridge

How we interpret Scripture is vital. If we believe incorrectly in matters of God, His promises, or His commandments the consequences are substantial. As many of you know, bad theology hurts people.

In this episode, pastor Dale Partridge starts a short series covering four of the most misused and abused passages of Scripture. 2 Peter 3:9 states, “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” Many people have used this passage as either support for universalism or as a defense against the doctrine of election.

Dale walks listeners through the common false interpretations of this passage and offers a clear exposition of the text with the literal, grammatical, and historical hermeneutic.

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Scripture References

2 Peter 3:9

“The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.”
Psalm 115:3

“But our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases.”
Psalm 135:6

“Whatever the Lord pleases, he does, in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all deeps.”
Isaiah 46:10

“My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose…”
John 10:25-29

Jesus answered the Pharisees, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name bear witness about me, but you do not believe because you are not among my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me,is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.
Romans 8:28-30

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.”
Matthew 1:21

“She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

After watching or listening to this episode, what is your opinion? Do you have any questions or comments? Maybe you have something to add to the discussion? If so, let us know in the comments below.

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