New Testament
2 Peter 2:3
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a warning about people who are motivated by greed.
- Author
- Peter the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 65-68
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians facing false teachers
Driven by greed, they will exploit you with deceptive words. Their judgment has been ready for a long time, and their damnation is not asleep.
And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a warning about people who are motivated by greed. They use clever and misleading words to take advantage of others, treating them like products to be sold. This exploitation is not just a casual act; it has serious consequences. The judgment for these actions has been set for a long time, meaning that it is inevitable and will come to pass. Their punishment is not delayed or forgotten; it is certain and will happen. This serves as a reminder that deceitful behavior, especially when driven by selfish desires, will ultimately lead to accountability. It’s a call to be aware of those who may try to manipulate us for their gain, urging us to stay vigilant and discerning in our interactions. We should seek truth and integrity in our relationships and be cautious of those who may not have our best interests at heart. Understanding this can help us navigate our lives with wisdom and protect ourselves from being exploited by others' greed and deception. Explore related materialism.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Peter 2:3 to your life
Be mindful of the influences around you. Surround yourself with people who are honest and have your best interests in mind. When something seems too good to be true, question it. Trust your instincts and seek guidance from trusted sources to avoid being misled by others' greed and manipulation. Stay informed and aware of potential deceit in your life.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Peter Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Peter 2:3 warn about?
2 Peter 2:3 warns about individuals driven by greed who use deceptive language to exploit others. It highlights the seriousness of their actions and the inevitable judgment that awaits them, emphasizing the need for vigilance against manipulation.
How can I recognize deceptive people according to this verse?
According to 2 Peter 2:3, deceptive people often use clever and misleading words to take advantage of others. Look for inconsistencies in their claims, overly persuasive language, or promises that seem too good to be true, as these can be signs of exploitation.
What is the significance of judgment in 2 Peter 2:3?
The judgment mentioned in 2 Peter 2:3 signifies that those who exploit others through greed will face consequences for their actions. This judgment is described as being long-prepared and certain, reminding us that accountability for deceitful behavior is inevitable.
How can I protect myself from exploitation as mentioned in this verse?
To protect yourself from exploitation, be discerning in your relationships. Surround yourself with honest individuals, question offers that seem too good to be true, and trust your instincts. Seeking advice from trusted sources can also help you navigate potential deceit.

The Book of 2 Peter
1: Growing in faith
Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, writes to those who have obtained a like precious faith. He begins with a greeting of grace and peace through the knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. Peter states that God's divine power has given them all things that pertain to life and godliness, including exceedingly great and precious promises, so that they may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. He exhorts them to give all diligence to add to their faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. If these qualities are theirs and abound, they will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. Peter emphasizes the importance of making their calling and election sure, for in doing so, they will never stumble and will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom. Knowing that his death is near, Peter is diligent to remind them of these things, so that they will always have a reminder of them after his departure. He affirms that they did not follow cunningly devised fables, but were eyewitnesses of Christ's majesty, referring to the transfiguration when they heard the voice from heaven declare, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." He concludes the chapter by stressing that the word of prophecy is more sure, and that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
Unlock the full 2 Peter summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of 2 Peter — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 3 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of 2 Peter summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.