August 7, 2021
Scripture: And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved. 2 Peter 2:2, 19 ESV
Observation: Much wisdom in these verses. Peter is referring to false prophets and teachers who are self-seeking and destined for ruin. They are driven by their sensuality and encourage others to do the same. So what does Peter mean by “following their sensuality”? They are influenced by their physical senses, that they pursue whatever is pleasing to their sight, smell, taste, touch, and hearing. Are our senses evil, then? No, they are a gift from God to be enjoyed to the fullest extent. Here, Peter is denouncing the primacy of our senses in discerning truth and making decisions. In chapter 1, Peter challenges his audience to rely on the objective truth of Scripture and the leading of the Holy Spirit (1:20-21). He also contends that those who tout freedom in embracing unbridled, sensual appetites are entrapping us in a self-consumed life of sin that will eventually destroy us.
Takeaway: When we use our senses to enhance the objective truths of Scripture and our Gospel, we enrich our lives with a deeper understanding of our Creator and of us as his creatures. But when we use our senses to self-gratify our immediate desires, our sensual appetites will never be satiated but enslave us in our fruitless pursuits.
Prayer: Father God, in your mercy, grant us the good sense to enjoy your holy presence in the richness of our sight, sound, smell, touch, and hearing. Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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