2 Peter 1:15

KJV

Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.

KJV (with Strong's)

Moreover {G1161}{G2532} I will endeavour {G4704} that ye {G5209} may be able {G2192} after {G3326} my {G1699} decease {G1841} to have {G4160} these things {G5130} always {G1539} in remembrance {G3420}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And I will do my best to see that after my exodus, you will be able to remember these things at all times.

Berean Standard Bible

And I will make every effort to ensure that after my departure, you will be able to recall these things at all times.

American Standard Version

Yea, I will give diligence that at every time ye may be able after my decease to call these things to remembrance.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In [2 Peter 1:15](/2_peter/1-15 "2 Peter 1:15 - Peter's Enduring Concern"), the Apostle Peter, facing his imminent death, expresses a profound and urgent pastoral commitment: to ensure that the believers he addresses will always retain a vivid and active remembrance of the vital spiritual truths and exhortations he has imparted to them. This verse underscores his deep concern for their ongoing spiritual stability and faithfulness, even after his physical departure, highlighting the enduring importance of apostolic teaching for the church.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Peter's poignant declaration in [2 Peter 1:14](/2_peter/1-14 "2 Peter 1:14 - Peter's Foreknowledge of His Death") that his "putting off of my tabernacle" (a reference to his death) is imminent, as revealed by the Lord Jesus Christ. This awareness imbues his subsequent words with a profound sense of urgency and finality. Peter has just exhorted his readers to diligently pursue spiritual growth, adding virtues like knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love to their faith ([2 Peter 1:5-7](/2_peter/1-5-7 "2 Peter 1:5-7 - The Ladder of Christian Virtues")). He emphasizes that these qualities, when present and increasing, prevent them from being ineffective or unfruitful in their knowledge of Christ ([2 Peter 1:8](/2_peter/1-8 "2 Peter 1:8 - Fruitfulness in Christ")). His commitment in [2 Peter 1:15](/2_peter/1-15 "2 Peter 1:15 - Peter's Enduring Concern") thus serves as a bridge, transitioning from his personal testimony and exhortation to the broader purpose of his letter: to remind them of essential truths and equip them to stand firm against the false teachers he will warn them about in [2 Peter 2](/2_peter/2 "2 Peter 2 - Warnings Against False Teachers").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter is writing to a dispersed audience of believers, likely facing various pressures, including the nascent threat of false teaching and internal decay (which becomes a central theme in [2 Peter 2](/2_peter/2 "2 Peter 2 - The Danger of False Prophets")). In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of a "last will and testament" or a final instruction from a revered leader was significant, carrying immense weight and authority. Peter, as a foundational apostle, understood his unique role in conveying Christ's teachings. His concern for "remembrance" speaks to a common challenge in ancient societies without widespread literacy or printing presses; oral tradition and repeated instruction were crucial for the preservation of knowledge. Furthermore, the early church relied heavily on the direct teaching and personal example of the apostles. Peter's impending "decease" meant the loss of this direct, authoritative voice, necessitating a robust mechanism for the continuity of truth.
* **Key Themes:** Peter's "endeavour" highlights the theme of **Apostolic Responsibility and Legacy**, demonstrating his deep commitment to the spiritual well-being of the church beyond his lifetime. He is not merely concerned with his personal legacy, but with the enduring health and stability of the Christian community. The core of his concern, that believers "always in remembrance" hold onto the divine truths, underscores the **Importance of Remembrance and Continuity of Truth**. This emphasizes the necessity of internalizing and continually recalling foundational Christian principles and the [precious and very great promises](/2_peter/1-3-4 "2 Peter 1:3-4 - God's Divine Power and Promises") that enable participation in the divine nature. By making arrangements for their remembrance, Peter is also implicitly addressing the theme of **Preparation for the Future and Safeguarding Doctrine**, equipping the church to stand firm without his direct presence, particularly in the face of the false teachers and scoffers he anticipates ([2 Peter 2](/2_peter/2 "2 Peter 2 - Warnings Against False Teachers") and [2 Peter 3](/2_peter/3 "2 Peter 3 - The Day of the Lord")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **endeavour (Greek, _spoudázō'_):** This verb signifies to "use speed," "make effort," "be prompt," or "be earnest." It conveys a sense of diligent, zealous application. Peter is not merely hoping or wishing, but actively and earnestly striving with all his might to achieve his goal. It implies a focused, energetic commitment to a task, reflecting the urgency of his situation and the importance of his mission.
* **decease (Greek, _éxodos'_):** Literally meaning "a going out" or "departure," this term is a gentle yet profound euphemism for death. It is famously used in the Septuagint for the Exodus of Israel from Egypt and in the New Testament for Christ's "departure" in [Luke 9:31](/luke/9-31 "Luke 9:31 - Jesus' Exodus"). Its use here by Peter frames death not as an end, but as a transition or a journey from this earthly life, imbued with a sense of purpose and divine ordering.
* **remembrance (Greek, _mnḗmē'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to remember," this noun refers to "memory" or "recollection." Peter's desire is not for a fleeting thought, but for a deep, abiding, and active recall of the truths he has taught. It implies a cognitive and spiritual retention that influences belief and behavior, ensuring the perpetuation of sound doctrine and Christian living.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Moreover I will endeavour":** Peter asserts his personal, proactive commitment. The "moreover" (G1161 _dé_ and G2532 _kaí_) connects this effort directly to his previous statement about his impending death, emphasizing that his remaining time will be dedicated to this crucial task. His "endeavour" (G4704 _spoudázō_) speaks of earnest, diligent effort, not a casual wish.
* **"that ye may be able":** This clause highlights Peter's goal: to empower his readers. He wants them to possess the capacity or means (G2192 _échō_) to retain these truths, implying that his efforts will provide them with the necessary resources or framework.
* **"after my decease":** This phrase directly references his impending death (G1841 _éxodos_), underscoring the urgency and the transitional nature of his departure. It points to a time when his direct physical presence and teaching will no longer be available.
* **"to have these things always in remembrance":** This is the ultimate objective. "These things" (G5130 _toútōn_) refers to the truths, exhortations, and promises he has taught and will continue to teach in his epistle. "Always" (G1539 _hekástote_) stresses the continuous, perpetual nature of this remembrance, not just an occasional thought. "In remembrance" (G3420 _mnḗmē_) signifies a deep, active recollection that informs their faith and practice.

#### Literary Devices
Peter employs several literary devices in this verse. **Foreshadowing** is evident as his statement about his "decease" ([2 Peter 1:14](/2_peter/1-14 "2 Peter 1:14 - Peter's Foreknowledge of His Death")) sets the stage for his subsequent commitment in [2 Peter 1:15](/2_peter/1-15 "2 Peter 1:15 - Peter's Enduring Concern"), creating a sense of urgency and finality. The term "decease" itself is a powerful **Euphemism** or **Metaphor** (Greek _exodos_), transforming the grim reality of death into a "departure" or "going out," echoing the significant "Exodus" of Israel and Christ's own "departure" in [Luke 9:31](/luke/9-31 "Luke 9:31 - Jesus' Exodus"). This softens the harshness of death while imbuing it with theological significance. Furthermore, the verse is characterized by a strong **Pastoral Tone**, revealing Peter's deep love and concern for his spiritual children, akin to a shepherd ensuring the flock's well-being even when he is no longer physically present. His "endeavour" highlights his proactive **Apostolic Authority and Responsibility**, not as a means of personal legacy, but as a faithful steward of divine truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Peter's earnest endeavor to ensure the perpetual remembrance of his teachings highlights a crucial theological principle: the enduring nature of divine truth and the church's responsibility to preserve and transmit it across generations. His concern is not for the memory of Peter himself, but for the truths about Christ, God's promises, and the path to godly living. This reflects the apostolic conviction that the faith delivered to them was a sacred trust, a body of truth to be guarded and passed on, rather than something transient or subject to constant redefinition. It underscores the importance of a fixed, authoritative revelation that serves as the foundation for Christian life and doctrine, providing a bulwark against error and spiritual drift.

* [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teaching the Law to Your Children")
* [2 Timothy 2:2](/2_timothy/2-2 "2 Timothy 2:2 - Entrusting the Message to Faithful Men")
* [Jude 1:3](/jude/1-3 "Jude 1:3 - Contending for the Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Peter's profound commitment in [2 Peter 1:15](/2_peter/1-15 "2 Peter 1:15 - Peter's Enduring Concern") serves as a powerful reminder for believers today regarding the vital importance of remembering, guarding, and transmitting spiritual truth. In an age of information overload and shifting cultural values, the call to "always in remembrance" hold onto foundational biblical principles is more critical than ever. We are challenged to not only diligently study God's Word for ourselves but also to actively internalize its truths, allowing them to shape our worldview, guide our decisions, and fortify our faith against error. Furthermore, Peter's example compels us to consider our own spiritual legacy. What truths are we actively endeavoring to pass on to the next generation? Are we investing in discipleship, mentorship, and teaching that ensures the continuity of sound doctrine within our families, churches, and communities? Our faithfulness in remembering and transmitting these "things" directly impacts the spiritual health and resilience of future believers, ensuring that the light of the Gospel continues to shine brightly.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "things" from God's Word do I need to make a more diligent effort to keep "always in remembrance" in my daily life?**
* **How am I actively contributing to the spiritual memory and understanding of others, particularly the next generation, in my family or church?**
* **What practical steps can I take to better internalize and recall biblical truths, so they are not forgotten or diluted in my mind and heart?**
* **In what ways does Peter's pastoral concern challenge my own approach to sharing and preserving the Gospel message?**

### FAQ
**What does Peter mean by "my decease"?**
Answer: By "my decease," Peter is referring to his impending death. The Greek word used, _exodos_ (ἔξοδος), literally means "a going out" or "departure." It's a gentle and significant way of speaking about death, portraying it not as an end but as a transition or a journey from this life. This same term is famously used in the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament) for the Exodus of Israel from Egypt and in the New Testament for Christ's own "departure" or "exodus" that He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem ([Luke 9:31](/luke/9-31 "Luke 9:31 - Jesus' Exodus")). Peter's use of this term here, immediately after stating that the Lord Jesus Christ had made clear to him the swift "putting off of my tabernacle" ([2 Peter 1:14](/2_peter/1-14 "2 Peter 1:14 - Peter's Foreknowledge of His Death")), emphasizes his awareness of his approaching death and the urgency it adds to his message.

**What "things" does Peter want his readers to remember?**
Answer: The "these things" (G5130 _toútōn_) Peter refers to encompass the entirety of the spiritual truths, exhortations, and divine promises he has taught and will continue to elaborate upon in his epistle. This includes the call to grow in Christian virtues ([2 Peter 1:5-7](/2_peter/1-5-7 "2 Peter 1:5-7 - The Ladder of Christian Virtues")), the certainty of God's divine power and precious promises ([2 Peter 1:3-4](/2_peter/1-3-4 "2 Peter 1:3-4 - God's Divine Power and Promises")), the reliability of the prophetic word ([2 Peter 1:19-21](/2_peter/1-19-21 "2 Peter 1:19-21 - The More Sure Prophetic Word")), and the warnings against false teachers ([2 Peter 2](/2_peter/2 "2 Peter 2 - Warnings Against False Teachers")) and scoffers ([2 Peter 3](/2_peter/3 "2 Peter 3 - The Day of the Lord")). Essentially, it refers to the whole body of apostolic teaching necessary for their spiritual stability and perseverance in the faith.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Peter's earnest "endeavour" to ensure the remembrance of truth after his "decease" finds its ultimate fulfillment and enduring power in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Peter, as an apostle, faithfully delivered the truth, it is Christ Himself who is the Truth ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Peter's "decease" (Greek _exodos_) echoes Christ's own "departure" mentioned in [Luke 9:31](/luke/9-31 "Luke 9:31 - Jesus' Exodus"), a pivotal moment of sacrifice and triumph that secured salvation for humanity. Just as Peter sought to leave a lasting spiritual legacy, Christ, through His death, resurrection, and ascension, established an eternal legacy, sending the Holy Spirit to be the ultimate Helper and Reminder. Jesus promised that the Spirit would "teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you" ([John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit, the Helper")). The Spirit continues to guide believers into all truth ([John 16:13-14](/john/16-13-14 "John 16:13-14 - The Spirit of Truth")), ensuring that the "things" Peter taught, which are rooted in Christ, are perpetually remembered and applied. Thus, Peter's human effort, though significant, points beyond himself to the divine provision of Christ, who, through His Spirit and the inspired written Word, ensures that His church will always have "these things" in remembrance, until His glorious return ([2 Peter 3:18](/2_peter/3-18 "2 Peter 3:18 - Grow in Grace and Knowledge")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 31:19

Now therefore write ye this song for you, and teach it the children of Israel: put it in their mouths, that this song may be a witness for me against the children of Israel.

Deuteronomy 31:29

For I know that after my death ye will utterly corrupt [yourselves], and turn aside from the way which I have commanded you; and evil will befall you in the latter days; because ye will do evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger through the work of your hands.

Psalms 71:18

Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto [this] generation, [and] thy power to every one [that] is to come.

2 Peter 1:12

¶ Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know [them], and be established in the present truth.

Joshua 24:24

And the people said unto Joshua, The LORD our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey.

Joshua 24:29

¶ And it came to pass after these things, that Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died, [being] an hundred and ten years old.

2 Peter 1:4

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.