2 Peter 1:15 (KJV)

What does 2 Peter 1:15 mean?

In 2 Peter 1:15, Peter says he is making an effort to ensure that his readers can recall the things he has taught them even after his death. His concern is not merely that they hear him now, but that what he has taught remains available to their memory.

Peter speaks of his death as his “decease,” a word that pictures a departure. After speaking in verse 14 of his approaching death, he looks beyond it to the continued remembrance of his teaching.

The Greek behind 2 Peter 1:15

• “endeavour” — σπουδάζω (spoudazō): This word carries the sense of making a diligent effort. It presents Peter’s concern as something he is actively working toward.
• “decease” — ἔξοδος (exodos): The word can mean a departure or exit. Here it refers to Peter’s death, as the preceding verse makes clear.
• “remembrance” — μνήμη (mnēmē): This word means memory or recollection. The wording points to the readers’ ability to bring these things to mind.

Why 2 Peter 1:15 matters

• Peter is addressing people who already know his teaching. In verse 12, he says they know “these things” and are established in the truth they have received.
• “These things” includes the qualities named earlier in the passage, such as faith, patience, and kindness toward others. The list in verses 5–7 gives the readers content to remember.
• Peter’s concern reaches beyond his own lifetime. His phrase “after my decease” places the readers’ future recollection at the center of his effort.