Living in Light of the Day of the Lord

Bible Passage: 2 Peter 3:1–13

Summary: In this passage, Peter addresses the scoffers who question the promise of Christ's return. He emphasizes the certainty of the day of the Lord, offering both a warning of judgment and a promise of a new heaven and earth for the righteous.

Application: This sermon can help Christians recognize the importance of living with an eternal perspective, urging them to remain faithful and diligent in their walk with Christ. It encourages believers to be active participants in God's kingdom, in light of the certainty of His return and the coming judgment.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that the promise of Christ’s return is not a distant hope but an imminent reality that should shape our daily lives and priorities. It calls for a life of godliness and purpose, navigating the challenges of the present with a focus on the eternal.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of Scripture, Christ is the fulfillment of God's promise of salvation and the ultimate judge at the Day of the Lord. His return brings restoration for believers and serves as a warning for the unrepentant, showcasing His authority and mercy.

Big Idea: Being aware of the certainty of the Day of the Lord calls us to live lives of holiness and devotion to God, as we await the new creation He has promised.

Recommended Study: As you prepare for this sermon, consider diving into the relationship between 2 Peter and other eschatological texts within the New Testament, such as Matthew 24 and Revelation 21. Use your Logos library to explore commentaries that address the historical context of Peter's audience, especially their challenges in faith amidst skepticism. This will provide greater depth to your understanding of how the promise of the Day of the Lord was vital for early believers.

In the biblical account of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), five prepared their lamps while five did not. The Day of the Lord is a similar moment of preparation—are we ready? Living in light of His arrival means guarding our hearts, cultivating faith, and staying vigilant. Unlike the foolish virgins, who missed the celebration, we are called to be the wise, fully prepared to meet our Savior when He comes, filled with hope and assurance.

1. Call to Remembrance

2 Peter 3:1-2

You could explore how Peter reminds his readers of the prophecies and teachings of the apostles, emphasizing the importance of remembering and holding firm to the truths of faith, even amidst doubt and skepticism. Highlight that such recollection inspires believers to live as witnesses of God's promises, confronting the scoffers who deny the reality of the Day of the Lord. The emphasis on remembrance calls Christians to be diligent in their spiritual journey, anticipating Christ's return with hope and conviction against the tide of disbelief.

2. Call to Heed

2 Peter 3:3-7

Perhaps point out how Peter reminds us that God's past acts of judgment, such as creation and the flood, stand as testimonies to His power and faithfulness. Acknowledge that these historical events evidence the certainty of the coming Day of the Lord. This assurance helps believers face their struggles by reaffirming God's promise of justice and renewal. Encourage the audience to trust in God's timing and purpose, elevating their walk with God through the lens of history and faith.

3. Call to Persevere

2 Peter 3:8-13

Maybe emphasize that God's perception of time differs from human understanding, highlighting His patience and desire for repentance. Stress that the delay in the Lord's return is not neglect but rather an expression of His mercy towards humanity. This perspective calls Christians to adjust their priorities, living with patience, readiness, and a motivation rooted in God's love and grace. Encourage reflection on how the certainty of Christ's return should impact daily life and decisions.

2 Peter 3:11-13

You could discuss how Peter instructs Christians to live holy and godly lives as they await the new heavens and earth. The assurance of the Lord's return and final restoration should inspire a life marked by obedience, service, and anticipation. This section underscores the transformative power of hope, urging believers to align their lives with God's purposes. Emphasize how this outlook gives strength and direction amid life's challenges and the fleeting nature of the present world.

Application

Consider a child eagerly awaiting Christmas morning, habitually checking the window for the first sign of snow. This joyful anticipation reflects how we should live in light of the Day of the Lord. It ignites our faith and restructures our priorities, subtly shaping our lives with hope. Much like that child, we should find ways to spread joy and light in our communities, anxiously awaiting our true gift: the return of Christ.

In the story of Noah (Genesis 6-9), God warned him of a coming flood—a clear Day of the Lord if there ever was one. Noah, living in light of this dire warning, took heed. He acted in faith and prepared accordingly. In our lives today, living with that same awareness compels us to act with intention, preparing our hearts and lives for His return. It should encourage us to reflect on our actions and witness to others, just as Noah did during his time.