Read: 2 Peter 3:10-18
There are many who have predicted the end of the world in all generations. So many predictions of the world’s end have come and gone. Yet the Bible refers to a time called “the Day of the Lord” when Jesus will return. It will happen, and God alone knows when. At the time of Jesus’ resurrection, two angels said to His disciples, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11).
That Day is a day that disciples of Jesus can look forward to. In light of that truth, the apostle Peter tells us how a believer can live with a definite purpose (2 Pet. 3:10-18). We ought to live Christ-honouring lives (2 Pet. 3:11). We can make every effort to be found at peace with God (2 Pet. 3:14). And we can be on guard so we are not carried away by the wrong influence of others (2 Pet. 3:17).
How can we do this? 2 Pet. 3:18 says, “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” When we grow in character through His Word, we begin to relate more closely to Jesus. The Holy Spirit takes God’s Word and guides us daily in the right way to live a life that pleases God.
The Day of the Lord should not be a terrible day for Jesus’ disciples. Jesus our King will return to make all things right and to rule forever. We eagerly wait for that day with great anticipation. Titus 2:13 says, “…looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ…” That is our blessed hope.
