The first letter written by Peter focuses on persecution and suffering of God's people caused by sources outside the church. The second letter focuses on enticements by false prophets, false teachers, and deceivers from within the church. The sufferings about which Peter warned occur simply because believers represent Christ on earth! The enticements about which Peter warned produce negative results because believers are distracted and not focused on knowing God, Jesus, or God's Word! These are wonderful letters from an apostle of Jesus Christ who lived a long, productive Christian life, after having witnessed Jesus' 3¿ year ministry!