In 2 Peter 3, the Apostle Peter lays out a stirring message for believers: the assurance of God’s ultimate plan, the certainty of judgment, and the promise of new heavens and a new earth. This passage encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, shaping our present actions in light of the future glory that awaits.

Peter begins by addressing the reality of scoffers in the last days. He reminds the “beloved” to stay grounded in the words of the prophets and apostles. The arrival of scoffers is not a surprise; they walk according to their own lusts and mock the promise of Christ’s return, asking, “Where is the promise of His coming?” (2 Peter 3:1–4). This mocking attitude reflects the signs of our times. Natural disasters, like devastating hurricanes, remind us not of “global warming” but of God’s global warnings. The moral decline is evident in the tragic increase of school shootings, with over 31,000 lives affected in 2024 alone. Wars and rumors of wars, such as the ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine or the volatile situation in Israel, underline the urgency of God’s Word.

Scoffers, Peter notes, willfully forget the truth of creation, judgment, and God’s sovereignty (2 Peter 3:5–6). Some claim the universe created itself, but science proves otherwise. The fine-tuning of the universe points to an intelligent Creator, not random chance. The improbability of life forming by accident is astronomical. As one scholar illustrated, forming just one protein is akin to hitting the jackpot on 250 slot machines simultaneously. Despite their denial, the evidence of God’s handiwork is unmistakable, and Scripture declares that by His Word, the heavens and earth were created (Genesis 1:1).

Peter shifts focus to the certainty of judgment. The heavens and earth are preserved for fire until the day of judgment for the ungodly (2 Peter 3:7–10). The Day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night, catching many off guard, just as in the days of Noah and Lot. While people dismiss God’s warnings, sudden destruction will come upon them. However, God’s patience is not a delay but an opportunity for salvation, as He is not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9). This divine patience gives every individual a chance to repent.

Beyond judgment, Peter speaks of the promise of heaven. The current heavens and earth will be dissolved, but believers look forward to new heavens and a new earth where righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:11–13). This promise calls us to holy conduct, godliness, and a heavenly mindset. Our lives should reflect our citizenship in heaven, hastening the day of God’s return. The new creation will be free of sin and designed for our glorified bodies, unmarred by Satan’s corruption.

Salvation, Peter reminds us, is the ultimate expression of God’s patience (2 Peter 3:14–16). We are called to be diligent, living in peace and purity, without spot or blemish. The longer God waits, the more people have the opportunity to be saved. Peter warns against twisting Scripture, which untaught and unstable people do to their destruction. Proper study of God’s Word requires reading in context, comparing Scripture, using reliable tools like the Blue Letter Bible, meditating on the Word, and applying it in daily life.

Finally, Peter emphasizes that glory will come (2 Peter 3:17–18). Believers are to live to glorify God in all they do. The heavens declare His glory, and we are called to respond by praising Him, obeying His Word, producing spiritual fruit, living honorably, and sharing His truth. The glory of God encompasses His beauty, majesty, and splendor, woven throughout Scripture and creation.

At Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, Pastor Allen Victor reminds us of these timeless truths. The church invites you to explore God’s Word and grow in your relationship with Him.

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