“And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things” (2 Peter 1:15 ESV).
Near the end of his life, the apostle Peter writes with deep pastoral urgency, determined to ensure that believers would remember the truths he had taught even after his physical departure. The word translated “departure” is the Greek word “exodos,” suggesting not only death but a transition—much like Israel’s journey out of Egypt—signifying that Peter viewed his death not as an end, but as a divinely appointed passage. He understood that his time was short. The Lord Jesus had already made him aware that he would soon “put off” the tent of his earthly body (cf. John 21:18-21).
Knowing this, Peter was intentional. He diligently committed himself to the task of preserving gospel truth so that believers could recall it “at any time.” This effort most directly refers to his writing of this letter, but may also reflect his broader commitment to secure apostolic teaching for future generations. His concern was not just for the moment, but for those who would follow long after he was gone. Through written testimony, Peter sought to anchor the church in truth, guarding it against drift and falsehood. His example demonstrates the importance of Scripture as a permanent reminder of God’s promises and call to godly living.
I’m thankful that the apostle Peter was careful to ensure that we have reminders from him to stir us up for the Lord. He surely had assurance from God that his writings would endure as they had been inspired by the Holy Spirit and were given for our encouragement and edification. He knew that he would not always be present, but his letters would live on. He wrote with an awareness of his soon decease (exodus), knowing as the Lord Jesus had told him, that he would shortly put off his tent. Peter and the other apostles left us the spiritual legacy of the New Testament Scriptures. We thank God that He gave them not only the inspiration, but also the commission to write, so that we might always have a reminder of these things.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for giving us Your Word through faithful servants like Peter. Stir us up by these reminders, that we too may live with urgency, truth, and devotion, leaving a spiritual legacy that exalts Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.