2 Peter 1:17 records a powerful affirmation: 'This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased.' Textual analysis reveals three main variants, but all convey the same meaning—God’s approval of Jesus. The differences appear due to scribal habits or language style, with the second variant enjoying the widest manuscript support. This reinforces the reliability of the New Testament text, even when small differences exist. The focus of Peter’s testimony is on the majesty of Christ and the certainty of God’s declaration. For believers, this passage strengthens assurance in the authority of Scripture and the centrality of Christ as God’s chosen, beloved Son.
Key Points
• Three different textual variants exist for 2 Peter 1:17, but all share the same meaning.
• The second variant has the most robust manuscript support. Nearly all manuscripts endorse it.
• Textual differences resulted from scribal errors and the effort to communicate clearly, not from theological disagreements.
• Textual criticism helps us clarify doubts about the reliability of the New Testament.
For the full article, three textual variants, and study questions, click here.
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