Terrance Callan, «The Style of the Second Letter of Peter», Vol. 84 (2003) 202-224

Readers of the Second Letter of Peter have often commented on its style, usually in negative terms. This essay examines the style of 2 Pet more thoroughly than has been done heretofore, using Cicero’s discussion of style, and that of other ancient writers, as a framework. This examination shows that 2 Pet largely conforms to ancient canons of style and should be seen as an example of the grand Asian style. Recognition of this may help readers avoid unthinking assessment of 2 Pet’s style by standards not accepted by its author, and develop greater appreciation of its style in terms of its author’s own aims and standards.

The Style of the Second Letter of Peter

Those who have studied the second letter of Peter have often commented on its style. Most frequently noted are the numerous rare words in 2 Pet¹ and its penchant for repetition of words². Commentators also offer more general impressions of 2 Pet’s style, usually critical ones³. The most extensive discussion of style in 2 Pet