Peter wrote his second letter knowing his death was near, and his final words were filled with urgency, warning, and hope. He pointed believers to the sure word of prophecy, which is even more certain than eyewitness experience because it has been proven across the sweep of history. He warned against false teachers who promise much but deliver nothing, comparing them to wells without water. He answered the skeptic’s question about why Jesus has not yet returned by reminding us that God is not slow but patient, not willing that any should perish. Believers are even called to hasten the return of Jesus through faithful proclamation of the gospel. The ultimate promise is a new heavens and a new earth where righteousness dwells. What we become in Christ is the only thing that outlasts this world.