To persevere in the faith, Christians must actively obey four commands (11-12a)

1. Flee evil
2. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. 
3. Fight the good fight of the faith
4. Take hold of eternal life

Four reasons why Christians will persevere until the coming of Jesus Christ (12b-16)

1. We have been called to eternal life; it is God’s desire that we stand firm.
2. At our baptism we committed ourselves to Christ, and this was witnessed by
   many people.
3. Just as Jesus remained true to his good confession and gave his life in death
   1. so the minister of the gospel has been called to remain true to his
      confession and calling (“Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care”
      v. 21-21) until the appearing of our Lord.
4. God’s mighty power and transcendence.