There is a Great Day Coming
Introduction:
During April, we are taking a look at some important chapters of
the Bible. 2 Peter 3 is a great chapter in that it takes a look at the
temptation to cast off the day of judgment because a great amount of time has
passed since Jesus’ promises were made. The chapter also encourages us to live
righteously and be prepared for the judgment day. This is accomplished through
diligence and growth in Jesus Christ.
I. 3:1-7 - Beloved…remember…
A.
3:2 – those who read scripture
need to remember three important sources of revelation
1.
words of the holy prophets from the Old
Testament
2.
commands of Jesus
3.
that which was taught by the apostles.
B.
3:3-4 – False teachers would arise
& deny Jesus’ return and judgment
1.
3:5-6 – no denial by any man can
change the truth.
2.
World has already been judged once in
its history – the flood.
3.
3:7 – if God willing to judge the
world once – He will not hesitate to do it again.
II. 3:8-13 – Beloved…time is not a factor with God.
A.
3:4 – some ask: Where is the promise of His coming?
1.
Jesus never said when He would return
– only that He would.
2.
3:8 – God places final judgment of
mankind in no timeframe.
B.
3:9 – passing time proves God’s
longsuffering love – not a refusal to judge wicked men.
C.
3:10-11 – destruction of present
heavens and earth reaffirmed.
1.
3:7 – judgment of ungodly men is
connected with destruction of the universe.
2.
3:11 – Peter calls for holy
living.
a.
3:12 – God’s people live pure
lives & long for the day of God to arrive.
b.
3:13 – this world is not our home.
Christians look for a new heavens and earth that God will provide for the
righteous.
III. 3:14-16 – Beloved…be
diligent.
A.
Peter knew the price to be paid for the
lack of diligence.
1.
He and the disciples slept while Jesus
prayed – Mt. 26:36-46.
2.
2:14 – We are to be found in
peace, spotless, blameless – great summation of the Christian life.
B.
3:15 – There is unity in the word
of God.
1.
Apostles didn’t develop Christian doctrine – it came complete from the start!
C.
3:16 – Diligence in handling God’s
word is important.
IV. 3:17-18 - Beloved…be on your
guard…
A.
Peter was well qualified to give out
this warning. See Luke 22:31-34;
54-62
B.
Peter, more than anyone, realized it is
easy to overestimate our strength.
1.
If apostles needed warnings about
falling to sin – so do we!
2.
1 Peter 5:8 – Satan intends to
kill us.
C.
3:18 – Growth is key.
Conclusion:
A.
Grace is how we are saved. Must never
forget that.
B.
Are you prepared for the great day that
is coming?