2 Peter - Chapter 3

2 Peter 3.1 This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: 2 Peter 3.2 That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: 2 Peter 3.3 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 2 Peter 3.4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. 2 Peter 3.5 For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: 2 Peter 3.6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: 2 Peter 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 Peter 3.8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 2 Peter 3.9 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. 2 Peter 3.10 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. 2 Peter 3.11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 2 Peter 3.12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 2 Peter 3.13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 2 Peter 3.14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 2 Peter 3.15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; 2 Peter 3.16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. 2 Peter 3.17 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. 2 Peter 3.18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

2 Peter : Chapter 3

The Certainty of Christ's Return

In chapter 3 of the second letter of Peter, the apostle powerfully addresses the certainty of the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faced with the uncertainties and mockery of skeptics, he invites us to live in the light of this divine promise. This solemn text reaffirms God's power and patience, while warning us against the doubts that can assail our faith.

Destruction and the New Creation

Peter describes the final destruction of this present world, as well as the creation of the new heavens and a new earth. This eschatological vision reminds us of the greatness of God's promise, which offers us renewed hope and a bright future. Thus, the chapter exhorts us to cultivate holiness, to be vigilant, and to grow in the knowledge of our Lord.

Reflection on Scripture

To deepen our understanding of the eschatological themes addressed by Peter, let us meditate on five biblical passages that shed light on this promise of Christ's return:

2 Thessalonians 2:1-2

“Brothers, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we beg you not to be shaken or disturbed so quickly, either by prophecy, or by word, or by a letter purporting to be from us, as if the day of the Lord had already come. » This passage addresses concerns similar to those Peter raises in 2 Peter 3:4, regarding the perceived delay in Christ's coming.

Psalms 90:4

"For a thousand years your eyes are like yesterday, like a watch in the night. » Peter quotes this verse in 2 Peter 3:8 to illustrate God's perspective on time and how God views eternity.

Isaiah 65:17

"For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; and the former things shall be remembered no more, neither shall they be remembered anymore. » This prophecy of Isaiah is echoed by Peter in 2 Peter 3:13, emphasizing the hope of a new heaven and a new earth, where suffering and the past will be no more.

1 Thessalonians 5:2

“For you know that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. » Peter uses this metaphor in 2 Peter 3:10 to describe the suddenness and unpredictability of the coming of the day of the Lord, urging us to remain alert.

Romans 2:4

“Or do you despise the riches of his kindness, forbearance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you to repentance? » This passage resonates with Peter's explanation in 2 Peter 3:9, where he emphasizes God's patience, delaying judgment to give everyone the opportunity to repent.

Conclusion

In light of these passages, we are called to live in hope and remain steadfast in our faith, awaiting the glorious return of our Lord. May this promise inspire us to lead lives of holiness and vigilance, relying on God's infinite goodness.