The term Peter uses here carries sometimes the sense of cessation or completion, and other times the sense of outcome, goal. In the present context, the latter meaning is the more likely. Those who have been born again possess an imperishable inheritance today preserved in heaven for them, even while they in this life suffer scorn on account of this hope. The outcome of that hope is “at hand,” the moment when saints will receive their inheritance. Conversely, of course, a different outcome awaits the unborn, those who oppressed the people of God.
7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.