The Promise of a New Home 2 Peter 3:13-14
Dear Saints,
We have seen that the Day of the Lord will bring calamity on those who do not believe because the fire of God’s judgment will consume the enemies of God. But for believers, it will be the exact opposite.
Promise (v. 13). God has promised his people “new heavens and a new earth.” The exact nature of the new heavens and earth has been the subject of some debate among theologians. Is it that God will destroy the universe as we know it today and create a new one, or will the present universe be renewed? God has not stated it clearly and we can only speculate, at best. The important thing is that the new universe will be the home of righteousness. For a people living uncomfortably in a world of sin and injustice, the hope of a place where righteousness rules and we no longer have to contend with evil is something to look forward to.
Preparedness (v. 14). Since we look forward to such a state where righteousness will prevail, it goes without saying that our hope should be accompanied by efforts to align our lives to our hope. John, speaking of this hope says “And everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure” (1 John 3:3). We look forward to a state of holiness in which our every thought and action will be intended for the glory of God. Let us anticipate that by living like that now.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.