There is a big difference between strategic waiting and apathy. The first has a purpose in mind which cannot be completed until the time is right: the second sees no end-point, irrespective of the time. But God is never apathetic; He cares so deeply about everybody that He does not want anybody to perish so He gives more time for sinners to repent (2 Peter 3:8-9).
Peter really cared about the new believers, especially those who would face persecution. His final words of this letter sum up the reason for writing. He is not just a theorist because he is just about to face his own death as a martyr: so he shows the genuine affection in his heart for his readers, by calling them, ‘dear friends’ (2 Peter 3:1, 3:8, 3:14).
Peter's second letter has been full of warnings not to go backwards, reminding the early church to beware of false teachers and stay true to the Holy Scriptures (2 Peter 1:19-21). But in this last verse before his martyrdom, he reminds them that they are also designed to grow up – into Christ. Yes, it is most important to identify heresy and to steer well clear: but heresy hunting can become almost a 'professional' Christian activity. However many errors are denounced, if we do not grow into the likeness of Jesus Christ, we have missed the point.
