2 Peter 2:10: And Especially Those Who Indulge In The Lust Of Defiling Passion And Despise Authority.

2 Peter 2:10

[10] And especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority. Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones, (ESV)

Peter is speaking of the judgment that is being stored up for the false teachers who have infiltrated the church. He describes their character in ways that we would do well to acknowledge. In the previous verses the Apostle spoke of Lot and Noah. During those times there were many godless men who had given themselves over completely to lust and rebellion. 

The false teachers Peter is mentioning claim to know Christ. They are teaching people in the church. They have assumed roles of responsibility and authority that they clearly are not qualified for. This was a problem for the recipients of Peter's letter. It continues to be a problem in the world in which we find ourselves today. There are many unqualified teachers in the church

We seem to find it shocking and surprising when a religious leader has a moral fall. If we were to understand what the Apostle Peter is writing, we should not be surprised at all. Because these teachers did not see fit to submit their bodies to the Lordship of Jesus Christ they indulged their flesh in all kinds of ungodly passions. When this happens God's people get hurt.

Similarly, the lack of self-control of these false teachers displayed itself in despising authority. If you see a pastor, teacher, or spiritual leader who is unwilling to be under authority you should not follow them. They are unqualified. There is no one greater than Jesus Christ himself. Even he demonstrated humility and complete submission to the authority of God the Father. 

God will bring judgment to those who are trying to lead God's people without being submitted to the Lordship of Christ. Pray for your leaders, but do not follow them if they are lustful and despise authority.