2 Peter 2:11

Whereas. Compare the parallel passage in Jude 8, 9. Peter now points out the contrast between the weak teachers and the mighty angels. The first are reckless enough to accuse even the highest authorities, whereas angels, who are mightier than the false instructors, maintain a discreet silence in such matters.

Angels. The context makes it reasonably clear that Peter refers to the holy angels, not to fallen ones.

Greater. That is, superior to the false teachers.

Power and might. Rather, “might and power.”

Railing accusation. Or, “blasphemous judging,” that is, reviling judgment.

Against them. The interpretation of v. 11 depends on the application of these words. Some refer them to the false teachers, but the context suggests that they may best be applied to the “dignities,” in which case the sense of the passage will be: The heretical teachers freely speak evil about the authorities, while holy angels, though far superior to those teachers, out of godly fear, refrain from making any such accusation. How brazen appears the conduct of the teachers in the light of such a comparison!

Before the Lord. That is, in the divine presence, where the holy angels constantly dwell. Though they do not realize it, the false teachers also live constantly in God’s sight, and should act as reverently as do the sinless angels.