The conclusion of Peter’s second letter poses a powerful question.
Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be? (3:11)
The God-breathed answer isn’t hard to find.
Holy. Claimed by God, distinct from the world, and dedicated to his service.
Godly. Becoming more and more like Jesus, day by day.
Waiting. Confidently expecting the triumphant return of my King at any moment.
Hastening. Anxiously anticipating the fulfillment of God’s good promises.
Diligent. Faithfully serving my Sovereign as a citizen of heaven and eagerly sharing the news of his grace.
Without spot. Cleansed, sanctified, taking the cost and responsibility of my forgiveness seriously.
At peace. Peace with my Creator, peace with my fellow image-bearers, and peace with myself.
Thankful. Never forgetting that I do not deserve the patience of my Lord who continues to provide time for all to repent.
On guard. God has straightforwardly and repeatedly warned that error, lawlessness, and ignorant, unstable influences can twist truth to the destruction of souls. Knowing this beforehand, wisdom compels us to pay attention and take care that we are not carried away, losing our own stability.
Growing. Progressing in the grace and knowledge of my Lord and Savior.
Glorifying. I exist to harmonize with and honor the will of my Creator. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
In light of our limited time and the promised return of Jesus, what sort of people ought we to be today? Thanks to 2 Peter 3:11-18, the answer isn’t hard to find.
You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care… (2 Pet 3:17)