This research paper by Alberto Paredes, presented to Dr. Michael Kruger as a Hebrews–Revelation paper at Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte (May 2021), offers an exegetical study of 2 Peter 1:19–21 and its implications for the doctrine of Scripture. Paredes argues that Peter’s reference to “the very firm prophetic word” should not be read as “more certain than” the Transfiguration but as an affirmation of Scripture’s enduring firmness and divine reliability.
Through detailed grammatical and lexical analysis, the paper explores how the prophetic word functions as a lamp shining in a dark place until the Parousia, portraying the second coming of Christ as both a dawn and a new beginning for believers. Rejecting the traditional translation of “private interpretation” in verse 20, Paredes contends that the Greek term refers instead to origin, meaning that no prophecy of Scripture comes from the prophet’s own release or initiative. Instead, as verse 21 reveals, men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
The paper concludes that 2 Peter 1:19–21 affirms Scripture’s divine authorship and authority, urging the church to hold fast to the inspired Word as its firm foundation until Christ’s return.
Course and date: Hebrews–Revelation — May 2021