2 But [in those days] false prophets arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will subtly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Many will follow their shameful ways, and because of them the way of truth will be maligned. 3 And in their greed they will exploit you with false arguments and twisted doctrine. Their sentence [of condemnation which God has decreed] from a time long ago is not idle [but is still in force], and their destruction and deepening misery is not asleep [but is on its way].

2 Peter 2:1-3 (AMP) 中文 

From true to false prophets

Just as there were true prophets in the OT who the Holy Spirit “moved” to write Scripture, there were false prophets. Peter now turns his attention to the false prophets among his readers in their day. He hits these charlatans with both barrels and doesn’t mince words. Their error is great – only matched by their deception. So these false prophets have already and will continue to be successful at picking off a few sheep from the flock and leading them astray (v2). But the true sheep know the voice of their Shepherd (John 10:27). Peter is representing this Shepherd.

False arguments and twisted doctrine

How do they do it? They subtly introduce destructive heresies, lies about God’s ways and Word. These are based on false arguments and twisted doctrine. For example, as was prevalent in the early church, they insist on following Jewish rituals like circumcision. Another would be Sabbath rules – which Jesus addressed so often with the Jewish religious leaders (c.f., Mark 1:29–31, 3:1–6). 

To what extent will they go in their heresies? Peter says they’ll even deny Christ (something Peter was personally familiar with). “Even a person who has what appears to be a godly walk and relationship with Jesus Christ can still bring in destructive heresies. Often times good men who teach lies do the worst damage. Their lies are accepted far more easily because of the good character of these men.” (enduringword.com)

Judgment coming

The judgment by God of those who are false prophets and teachers is due. It’s even been known from time past. “Peter personified the false teachers’ judgment and destruction (“their destruction is not asleep”). His point was that God is never late or asleep in executing justice, though He is patient (cf. 3:9).”  (Constable commentary)

RЯeflection

• Peter’s message is to us as well. There are plenty of false teachers. I was just chatting with a young friend tonight about the deceptions of Mormons and other other cults. More than them, there are churches with pastors who claim to be preachers of the Gospel but they believe a gospel other than what Jesus preached. “Many of the [false teachers] use biblical words but change their meanings.” (Constable commentary) Peter will share more details later.
• Because of this, there is a high standard applied to teachers (James 3:1-2). Similarly, we should be careful about what we teach or share with others about Biblical truth. It’s our duty to diligently study the Word and apply it in life.