Definition: As also in all [his] epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as [they do] also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse together. It’s a pretty complex passage from the letter 2 Peter, and it’s packed with meaning! Here’s a simplified explanation: Core Idea: This verse is warning about how difficult certain parts of the Bible can be to understand, especially for those who aren’t deeply familiar with the teachings. It suggests that these difficult passages might lead people astray and ultimately cause them harm. Let's unpack it word by word: "As also in all [his] epistles..." : This is a crucial part. "Epistles" means letters – like letters from Jesus to his followers after he was crucified and resurrected. This verse applies to all the letters written by Paul, who was a key leader in the early church. "...speaking in them of these things..." : Paul is writing about the Bible as a whole. He’s explaining something important within it. "...in which are some things hard to be understood..." : This is the core of the warning. Paul recognizes that there are certain sections of the Bible – like passages dealing with concepts like salvation, judgment, or the future – that can be confusing and require careful study. "...which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest..." : This is where the danger lies. "Unlearned" means lacking knowledge or understanding. “Unstable” suggests a lack of firm faith or belief. Paul is saying that those who don’t understand these things well are more likely to make mistakes, lose their way, and be led astray by false teachings. "...as [they do] also the other scriptures..." : This is a strong comparison. He's saying that the same thing – the confusing parts of the Bible – applies to all the other scriptures – the Old Testament, the Gospels (the stories about Jesus), and all the books of the New Testament. "...unto their own destruction." : This is the ultimate consequence. Paul’s warning isn't just about confusion; it’s about potential harm and spiritual ruin. If people don't understand these difficult passages, they could lose their way and face consequences – potentially even eternal punishment. In simpler terms: Paul is saying that some parts of the Bible are challenging to grasp. It's like a puzzle with pieces that seem confusing at first glance. If you don’t have a strong foundation in the basics—like understanding God’s plan for salvation—you might be more prone to misunderstandings and make choices that could lead you down a path of error and harm. Why is this verse important? It's a reminder to: Read with diligence: Don't just skim the Bible – really study it. Seek understanding: Don’t just accept things at face value; ask questions, research, and delve deeper. Pray for wisdom: Ask God to help you understand His word so you can live a faithful life. Do you want me to explain any of this in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Give you some specific examples of difficult passages from the Bible? Talk about how to approach studying these challenging parts?