Scripture - 2 Pet. 1:16 We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17For he received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” 18We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.
Observation - in his second epistle, Peter emphasizes the God-hood of Jesus Christ. His claim is not validated because of something he heard from the mouth of another, but because he experienced it first hand (v.16). He then makes reference to Mat 17:5, Mark 9:7 and Luke 9:35 account of the transfiguration of Jesus while with Peter James and John. He emphasizes to the reader that he heard the voice with his own ears coming from heaven that said "This is my Son."
Application - having a head knowledge of Jesus is good, but not enough. Having an experience with Jesus is life changing. Peter was as vacillating a man as scripture ever describes, but once he had the full experience with Christ, he was as committed as can be. I see that in my life and the lives of others. We go from thing to thing, from one hobby or fad to the next, but not in our relationship with Jesus. I, like Peter, am persuaded of His Majesty. Why? Because a man told me or I read it in a book? No, but because I experienced Him first hand. I saw Him. I heard Him. I touched Him. For Peter, this experience allowed Him to even stare death in the face in this chapter, knowing he was about to be martyred, and reduce that looming fate to a mere sentence. May the firsthand experiences with Jesus continue and may the opportunities of others to hear the voice by plenty!
Prayer - Lord, thank you for revealing Jesus. Let my actions make it possible for others to experience the same.
