The teaching of the 2nd coming of the Lord helps put things in perspective. Knowing that this event is seven years after the rapture, consider how soon we could possibly see the Lord Jesus face-to-face. Consider these points:
1. All things earthly, including the ungodly will be judged by fire.
2 Pt. 3:7 “But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.”
2. God‘s judgment will happen suddenly and almost unexpectedly.
V10 “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.”
3. God is being patient so that men might be saved.
V9 “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
4. Our challenge is to BE godly, anxiously awaiting the return of our Lord.
V11-12a “Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God,”
V14 “Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.”
5. We have been promised a new home, untouched by sin.
V13 “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.”
6. Become grounded in the wisdom of God’s word and as a result, avoid error.
V17-18a “Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”
LESSON - In anticipation of the Lord’s return, we must prepare ourselves and others spiritually. We have a responsibility to become grounded in God‘s word to the best of our ability. In doing so, we will enable ourselves to mitigate false teachings and help others who have been deceived by it. Jesus is being patient, withholding judgment so the Lost can be saved. We must urgently do our part to win them!
~Mike
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