'One day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.' Reflection on God's view of time, the certainty of final dissolution of all things, and the believer's duty to look for that day and shun materialism.

The apostle urges growing union with the Lord and inner peace by keeping in view the day of the Lord, reflecting on the reason for Christ's delay – the salvation of the redeemed – and by building knowledge and stability in the Word of God.

The closing admonition of the epistle is a stirring appeal for vigilance in keeping our souls, coupled with a plea for lifelong growth in the gifts given at conversion, and consciousness of Christ's love. Here is what these are, and how they should deepen.