2:12 behold. This unique word for “behold” is used only by Peter (see also I Peter 3:2). Its noun form is translated “eye-witnesses” in II Peter 1:16. Its thrust is to “inspect carefully.” Unbelievers do critically observe the behavior of Christians, making it doubly important that we “walk circumspectly.”

2:12 day of visitation. Interestingly, “visitation” (used also with this meaning in Luke 19:44) is actually the same as “bishoprick” (Acts 1:20). A bishop is an “overseer,” and the idea here evidently is that of God coming as an overseer to diligently inspect the actions of both believers and unbelievers.