2 Peter 2:12-17
But these men, like irrational animals—creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed—do not understand whom they are insulting, and consequently in their destruction they will be destroyed, suffering harm as the wages for their harmful ways. By considering it a pleasure to carouse in broad daylight, they are stains and blemishes, indulging in their deceitful pleasures when they feast together with you. Their eyes, full of adultery, never stop sinning; they entice unstable people. They have trained their hearts for greed, these cursed children! By forsaking the right path they have gone astray, because they followed the way of Balaam son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness, yet was rebuked for his own transgression (a dumb donkey, speaking with a human voice, restrained the prophet’s madness). These men are waterless springs and mists driven by a storm, for whom the utter depths of darkness have been reserved.
This passage is yet another warning about false prophets and teachers, and some of the characteristics that will be true of them. On the list are carousing (drinking deeply and frequently) in broad daylight, deceit, adultery, stumbling blocks, and greed. The NKJV says they, “love the wages of unrighteousness”. Earlier in 2 Peter 2, it says these people “deny the sovereign Lord who bought them – bringing swift destruction on themselves.” Jesus invites all people to Himself, because true life is found in Him. He is the bread of life, and the only way to be in right relationship with God. A relationship with Christ transforms us, producing evidence of His grace and mercy. The mark of a true disciple of Christ is complete reliance upon Jesus in both speech and action…perfected by the residence and partnership of the Holy Spirit.