What is the meaning of 2 Peter 1:15? And I will make every effort Peter is promising personal diligence. He refuses to coast in the twilight of his ministry; instead, he leans in with fresh resolve, much like he earlier urged believers to “make every effort to confirm your calling and election” (2 Peter 1:10). • This same zeal echoes throughout Scripture: Paul ran “to win the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27), and Jude urged saints to “contend earnestly for the faith” (Jude 3). • The verse reminds us that godly leaders labor so others can stand firm long after the leader is gone. to ensure The goal of Peter’s exertion is security for his readers. He is not merely sharing ideas; he is establishing something solid that cannot be shaken (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:15, “stand firm and hold to the traditions we passed on to you”). • Like Moses writing the law before he died (Deuteronomy 31:24-26), Peter is preparing a trustworthy record—this very letter—to guard believers from error. that after my departure “Departure” points to Peter’s forthcoming death, already foretold by Jesus (2 Peter 1:14; John 21:18-19). He views death as an exodus, the same word used of Christ’s “departure” in Luke 9:31. • Paul spoke similarly when he wrote, “The time of my departure is at hand” (2 Timothy 4:6). Both apostles model a hope-filled view of death: it is simply a transition to be with Christ (Philippians 1:23). you will be able to recall Peter wants his readers to remember, not reinvent, truth. The Holy Spirit aids this memory: “He will remind you of everything I have told you” (John 14:26). • Repetition is a biblical safeguard (Philippians 3:1). • The church thrives when it calls to mind the once-for-all gospel (1 Corinthians 15:1-2; Jude 17). these things at all times “These things” points back to the rich virtues of verses 3-11 and the certainties of verses 12-14. Peter envisions believers rehearsing these truths continually, whether in times of peace or persecution. • Psalm 1:2 celebrates meditating on God’s word “day and night.” • Colossians 3:16 urges, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” Persistent remembrance anchors the church in every season. summary Peter pledges whole-hearted effort so that, even after his death, Christians will continually remember the gospel and the godly qualities that flow from it. By writing under the Spirit’s inspiration, he secures a lasting witness that still guards and guides us today. |
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