Looking Forward While Living Faithfully
Text: 2 Peter 3:12-14
Central Truth: As Christians, our incredible future to come should motivate and inspire us to live in faithful anticipation now.
v.12 I. Our Present
NASB/KJV – looking for, ESV – waiting for
This word is also used in vv. 12 and 13. It means to wait expectantly, to look forward to something. It speaks of eager anticipation and expectation!
NASB – hastening, NIV – speed: to hasten, to accelerate, to desire, to urge on (cf. Luke 2:16; 19:5-6)
The thought here is that by us spreading, sharing the Gospel and living holy, godly lives, in some way we can help facilitate Jesus’ Second Coming!
v.13 II. God’s New
cf. Isaiah 65:17; 66:22; Revelation 21:1
new (Greek – kainos) new in quality or character; it’s unlike anything known before
v.14 III. Our Present
be diligent – This is a strong command (cf. 1:5, 10, 15). It means to hurry, to be eager, to be zealous, to make a great effort. Peter wants us to be active and productive in living life for the Lord.
- in peace: This means to be at peace with God and man.
- without spot
- without blemish: This is the very opposite of false teachers (cf. 2:13; 1 Peter 1:19).