Verse 1.— This second epistle, beloved. The expression contained in this verse not only shows that Peter is the author of the present letter and of one formerly written, but also that both letters were written to the same individuals. In both of which I stir up. The subject the apostle had in writing both of his letters was that he might therein exhort them to live a holy life. Their minds being pure, that is, honest and sincere, having these things called to their remembrance by apostolic earnestness and anxiety for their good, could have nothing but a salutary effect.