Living with Eternity in View: Lessons from 2 Peter 3
Today I attended my church youth service, we studied 2 Peter 3. This passage in gist is a timely reminder for us Christians knowing about the importance of living with eternity in mind for the Day of the Lord is drawing near. Here are some reflections I took away from the bible study session:
The bible study leader split the passage into two main parts;
v1-10; is about a call to remembrance.
c11-18; is about how we ought to be prepared as the Day drawers nearer.
1. Call to Remembrance (2 Peter 3:1-10)
In this first section, Peter reminds us — believers to remember the words spoken before. It is a calling not to forget the foundational truths of our faith. Yet, the question we ought to ask ourselves “why do we easily forget?” Often, it's because we take things for granted or let the distractions of life cloud our spiritual focus.
In verses 4-5, Peter warns of scoffers — people who will question our faith and intentions. They willfully forget the past acts of God, like the creation of the world and the judgment during Noah’s time. This challenges us to ask ourselves: “Are we also guilty of willful forgetfulness?’
Verses 8-10 serve as a reminder not to misuse God's patience as a backdoor for complacency. Some might focus solely on “a day is like a thousand years” to delay repentance. But as Romans 2:5-6 reminds us, God’s kindness is meant to lead us to repentance and not to be taken for granted!
2. Be Prepared as the Day of the Lord Draws Near (2 Peter 3:11-18)
In this second section of the passage, Peter tells us to look forward to the new heavens and new earth, much like Noah once looked forward to the end of the flood (reading back to 2 Peter 3:5-6). This future hope should shape our present conduct in our daily life.
We are encouraged to attain the ideal of holy conduct and godliness, but living this out daily isn’t always easy. Personally, I’ve felt the tension of “losing out” to friends outside my faith, whether is it in lifestyle, success, or approval. Yet, this passage reminds me to create awareness of where I stand spiritually, as the day of the Lord draws nearer.
Peter also warns us against being swayed not just by people of the world but even by people within the church. It’s a reminder for us to constantly check our attitude and motivations, ensuring they align with God’s Word and his will.
In closing, the bible study leader ended the session with the verse — John 14:26 where Jesus promises the Holy Spirit will teach us and bring to remembrance all that He has said. This is a comforting reminder that we are not alone in this journey of faith. God Himself equips us to remember, prepare, and stand firm.
As we await Christ’s return, may we live each day remembering His Word, preparing our hearts, and standing unshaken, no matter what questions or distractions come our way.
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