King James Version
What Does 2 Peter 1:15 Mean?
“Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.”
Context
13
Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance;
14
Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me.
15
Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.
16
For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
17
For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(15) **Moreover I will endeavour.**—The verse requires re-arranging. “Always” (or better, *at all times*) belongs to “may be able,” not to “have in remembrance;” and perhaps “moreover” is not quite right. Better, *But I will endeavour that ye* *may at all times also* (as well as now) *have it in your power after my decease to remember these things.* To what does this declaration point? The simplest answer is, to his writing this letter, which they might keep and read whenever they liked. (Comp. 2Peter 1:13.) Other suggestions are—to his having copies of this letter distributed; or, writing other letters; or, instructing, St. Mark to write his Gospel; or, commissioning “faithful men” to teach these things. There seems to be nothing either for or against these conjectures. It is a coincidence worth noting that, with the Transfiguration in his mind (2Peter 1:16-18), he uses, in close succession, two words connected in St. Luke’s account of the Transfiguration (Luke 9:31; Luke 9:33)—“decease” and “tabernacle.”
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Peter. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Peter 1:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Peter 1:15
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge