Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:
Peter calls himself servant before apostle to show that all ministers of Christ must speak from His mouth, yet his apostleship marks him as set apart by the Lord above ordinary officers. The faith these believers possess is precious not because it differs in kind from ours, but because all who hold it possess Christ and His righteousness equally, though the measure varies.
AI summary
Peter uses both his names, Simon and Peter, to reassure the Jewish believers that he has not abandoned the law or circumcision, lest they grow jealous of him. Calling himself Christ's servant is no shame but the highest honour, for service to this Master makes us kings and priests unto God.
AI summary
Commenting on 2 Peter 1:1-4
Simon was his birth name; Peter was given him by Christ to mark him as the rock built upon Christ the foundation. Both names signify stability and firmness. He styles himself servant to show humility and obligation to his Lord, yet adds apostle to distinguish himself from common ministers, he was sent immediately by Christ with power and full authority to preach, plant churches, and order them.
AI summary