At first reading these words suggest that Peter expected the Last Day (when the Lord will judge the living and the dead) to come very soon. That Peter wrote this nearly 2,000 years ago would compel the conclusion that Peter’s expectation was mistaken. That conclusion clearly raises other very challenging questions. The term “at hand,” however, need not indicate a reference to time; it can just as well be a reference to the last hurdle removed. That would be the case here. With Christ’s victory on the cross, his resurrection and his ascension (1 Peter 3:21–22) have cleared the way for the last great event in redemptive history, his return to judge the living and the dead. Peter was undoubtedly very aware of Jesus’ words that the timing of that event is known only to God (Matthew 24:36; Acts 1:7; 2 Peter 3:4–10).
7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.