knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of private interpretation. For no prophecy ever came by the will of man: but holy men of God spoke, being moved by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:20-21 WEB

Peter makes these statements as a first hand witness to the transfiguration of Jesus. Luke 9:29-31 records this event saying of Jesus, “As he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became white and dazzling. Behold, two men were talking with him, who were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory, and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.

In ancient times, prophets like Moses, Elijah, and others spoke and recorded the word of God as moved by the Holy Spirit. Peter shares his story of witnessing the transfiguration of Jesus to emphasize the surety of his conviction that Jesus was and is the Messiah sent from God for our salvation. In his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus fulfilled all of the law, the psalms, and the prophets (Luke 24:44). 

My Beloved Son

Prophecy comes from God. Genuine prophecy is delivered by holy men moved by the Holy Spirit. Peter’s point is that Jesus’ fulfillment of prophecy was certain and not circumstantial. Peter writes in 2 Peter 1:16-17, “For we didn’t follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honor and glory when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, ‘This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’ WEB”

To glorify his name, offer salvation to mankind, and demonstrate his love for creation, God inspired prophets to record his word and sent Jesus to fulfill it. Moved by the Holy Spirit, genuine holy men of God do not speculate or guess the future. God reveals his plans to his prophets. The Lord demonstrates the reliability of his word when prophecy is fulfilled. 

Yesterday’s Devotional: The Wages of Sin