Who was the Saviour?
In 2 Peter 3, the term “Saviour” (Greek: sōtēr, σωτήρ) is used to describe Jesus Christ in His divine role as the One who rescues humanity from sin, judgment, and eternal death. The title “Saviour” is not merely descriptive but deeply theological—it conveys Christ’s mission and identity as the Deliverer and Redeemer of mankind. The word sōtēr means “deliverer,” “preserver,” or “one who saves.” It was used in Greek culture to describe benefactors or rulers who brought aid, but in the New Testament, it is reserved uniquely for God and His Son.
In 2 Peter 3:18, the apostle Peter closes his letter with a doxology:
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”
This verse reaffirms that Jesus is not only Lord but also Saviour—a recurring theme throughout Peter’s writings (cf. 2 Peter 1:1, 1:11, 2:20, 3:2).
Biblical References
The term Saviour is used in several key places in both the Old and New Testaments:
- Old Testament: God is repeatedly referred to as the Saviour of Israel (Isaiah 43:11; Hosea 13:4; Psalm 106:21).
- New Testament:
Peter uses the title to emphasize both Christ’s redemptive work and His lordship.
The Role of the Saviour in 2 Peter 3
2 Peter 3 speaks prophetically of the coming Day of the Lord—a future event of judgment and renewal. Amidst warnings about scoffers and the certainty of divine judgment (3:3-10), Peter reminds believers of the Lord’s patience, “not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (v. 9). This patient delay is an act of divine mercy by the Saviour, giving sinners opportunity to turn to Him.
The chapter ends with a call to grow spiritually and remain steadfast:
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” (v. 18)
Here, “Saviour” emphasizes Christ’s ongoing work in the believer’s life—not only saving from sin but preserving them until the final day.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
The title “Saviour” is not merely theological—it’s deeply personal for every believer. It reminds us:
- We need saving because we are sinners (Romans 3:23).
- Salvation comes by grace through faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9).
- Jesus is both the one who saves us from sin and who sustains us in grace.
In a culture that often seeks self-salvation through achievement, morality, or religion, the Christian faith proclaims that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12).
How the Saviour Points to Jesus and the Gospel
Jesus as Saviour is central to the gospel message. The good news is that God sent His Son to rescue us from the penalty and power of sin. In His incarnation, Jesus fulfilled God’s promise of a Redeemer. In His death, He bore our punishment. In His resurrection, He secured eternal life for all who believe. Peter’s emphasis on Jesus as “Saviour” in a letter warning about coming judgment reminds us that the gospel is not just about escape—it is about transformation and hope.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Divine Mercy and Patience
God delays judgment to offer mercy. The Saviour is patient, allowing time for repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
2. Judgment and Salvation
The Saviour saves from coming wrath (1 Thessalonians 1:10). Salvation is always set against the backdrop of deserved judgment.
3. Lordship of Christ
Jesus is not only Saviour but Lord (2 Peter 3:18). Salvation is not just deliverance from sin but entrance into a life of obedience.
4. Transformation Through Grace
The call to grow in grace (v. 18) shows that salvation is the beginning of a lifelong journey of sanctification.
5. Final Redemption
Peter speaks of the new heavens and new earth (v. 13), a future reality secured by the Saviour for His people.
Reflection Questions
- Do I truly understand my need for a Saviour, or am I relying on my own strength or righteousness?
- How does the knowledge of Jesus as both Saviour and Judge affect how I live today?
- Am I growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus, or am I remaining stagnant in my faith?
- Do I share the patience and burden of the Saviour for those who have not yet come to repentance?
- How does Jesus‘ role as Saviour inspire hope in the midst of a world marked by sin and coming judgment?
“To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18)