In verse 1 of this chapter, Peter reminded the believers that it was his second letter to them. Scholars tell us that this letter was written at the end of his life. The word “therefore” (v. 14) in the closing words of Peter’s letter indicates his emphasis on the certainty of Second Coming of Christ in the previous passage.

Although the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ would be sure and urgent, the timing is not known. Thus he instructed them to be patient in waiting, as the Lord himself was patient (v. 9). Peter must have learned and internalized the compassion and teaching of Jesus who asked him thrice, “Do you love me?” (John 21:15-17). And his love for Jesus, and for Jesus’ sheep caused him to call his fellow believers, “beloved” (vv. 14, 17).

In verse 14, Peter said they were “waiting for these.” What were they waiting for? Well, firstly, one of “these” and “these things” (v.11) certainly refers to the essential Christian doctrine of the Second Coming of Christ. It is our future hope and expectation that Christ will return to earth one day as prophesied by the angels (Acts 1: 10-11). He further emphasized that these matters were also written by their beloved brother Paul (vv. 15-16). Thus this doctrine is very important so much so that both Paul and Peter wrote about it (E.g. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

However, even more, “these” also refer to the transitory nature of the heavens and the earth. Although they existed long ago, since the beginning of creation and the foundation of the earth, one day they will also “go up in smoke” at the Day of Judgment. They would be destroyed together with the ungodly. (vv. 10, 12) This ought to cause us to think twice on where we should lay up our treasures – on earth for temporary benefit or for eternal security in heaven.

What did Peter asked them to do while they were waiting? It’s not that they could do their own things or do “business as usual” in this world, or simply do nothing. But he said they needed to be diligent to live their lives to be spotless and not tainted nor blemished, and be at peace – that is, be contented and restful in their lives.

They were also to consider Christ’s patience as a form of salvation. This envisaged the patience of the Lord in not being willing for anyone to perish in sin, but to give them an opportunity to repent and be saved (v. 9).

Peter also reminded them to be careful, not to be led astray by the heresy of “lawless people” who twist and turn the Scriptures to their own benefit. Ignorant and naïve people will misinterpret the Scriptures to their own destruction, but the diligent and careful ones will not lose their faith and stability in the Lord. They will seek to constantly grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord. This differentiates between a “fleeting” believer and a faithful disciple of our Lord Jesus Christ, and His glory lasts from now until the day of eternity. Amen.

Dear Lord Jesus, thank you that you are the faithful Lord and Saviour who was, and is and is to come. You are the Coming King and I look forward to the day when you will come and take me to yourself. Help me to hold the things of this world lightly, with open hands, because the world is passing away and all its lustre. Help me also to be diligent to live a pure and holy life, be at peace with myself and others, and not be led astray by heretical and wrong teachings but to grow in your grace and knowledge. Amen!