16 For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 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.” 18 We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.
19 We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.
The apostle Peter writes in his second epistle that we do not follow a God who is known only through stories. Rather, Jesus Christ is a known and seen person.
The apostles personally saw and heard Jesus in the flesh reveal his miraculous power.
These eyewitness accounts have been passed now to us (with pinpoint accuracy, but that is a topic for another day).
What a beautiful thing it is to find our hope in something that is miraculous and true.
The miracles Jesus did were witnessed by real people. Multitudes of people were able to personal tell of the miraculous and redeeming power of Jesus.
This is the hope we cling to. This is why we are able to have confidence in Jesus.
Jesus did not do things in secret for a select few.
On the cross, Jesus revealed his power to all people. He even pointed back to the powerful acts of God in the life of Moses (reflect on the plagues of Egypt and the crucifixion of Jesus… darkness… natural disruption… blood… death to the firstborn…)
We ought to have hope as we reflect on Jesus and his power.
Jesus is coming back and he will show his power again.
This is the blessed hope we have as Christians. The best part of this message is… we have evidence that gives us confidence. Peter tells us that these are not lies or made up stories. The stories of Jesus are real, firsthand realities.
Find hope in the story of Jesus.