Some contend Peter did not write this letter. The argument is without sufficient evidence. The greeting, along with other internal evidence, shows Peter was the author. He makes note of his position of servitude he is in with his audience, but also gives his authority for the instruction in the letter. He is an “apostle of Jesus Christ” (v. 1).

Peter addresses his readers as “those who have obtained like precious faith with [the apostles]” (v. 1). This was obtained in relation to the righteousness of God who shows no partiality (cf. Acts 10:34). The apostles were with Jesus in His ministry, but have revealed everything necessary to the readers to obtain the “like precious faith” (cf. 1 John 1:1-4).

The favor God bestows, and the peace it imparts is only found with those who have knowledge of “God and of Jesus our Lord.” This knowledge is more than merely knowing, but acting on what is known (epignōsis – full discernment [Strong]; A greater participation by the knower in the object known [Vine]). According to God’s power we have been given to know what we must do to attain life and godliness by the knowledge of Christ. He left heaven and lived a sinless life as a perfect example, revealing the Father to us (cf. John 17:3). Through Christ we have been given promises. The promises ensure taking on qualities of the Divine in this life, and the consummation when we gain entrance into heaven. This occurs because we have “escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (v. 4). We do this by having epignōsis of God and Jesus. I.e. participant knowledge; obedient knowledge.