06-27-2025 part 1: Preserved by His Word, Awaiting His Return

Section 1

The teaching begins in 2 Peter 3:5, where Peter rebukes those who deliberately ignore God's historical judgment and creative power. These scoffers deny both the biblical flood and the second coming of Christ, not out of ignorance but rebellion—they simply refuse to be held accountable. The Scripture teaches that the universe was spoken into existence by God’s word and that same word also brought judgment through the flood. The argument is not just about scientific timelines or cosmic beginnings; it's about people denying God's sovereignty to avoid facing their own moral responsibility. But believers, by contrast, embrace accountability because they have Jesus as their advocate. We are joyful, not fearful, in acknowledging God as Creator and Judge.

Section 2

Peter presses further in verse 7, noting that the current heavens and earth are being preserved by that same divine word—not by human ingenuity, diplomacy, or environmental stewardship. Mankind, though technologically advanced, has proven itself unreliable as a steward. From viruses to thousands of nuclear weapons in hostile hands, it's clear that humanity is not preserving the planet—God is. Just as God preserved the earth after the flood for future judgment, He continues to preserve it now. His timeline is exact. Nothing and no one can alter the day of judgment He has set. This divine control serves as both a warning and a reassurance: God is in command, and His purpose cannot be derailed by human error or defiance.

Section 3

Peter then shares an astonishing perspective on divine timing: “With the Lord, a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like a day” (2 Peter 3:8). This is not theological guesswork—it’s a call for humility. Whether one holds to premillennial, postmillennial, or amillennial views, the central truth remains: God’s timing transcends human comprehension. Believers are reminded to hold tightly to the core of the gospel—Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection—while holding loosely to speculative end-time details. God exists outside of time, and that truth should inspire both awe and patience. Ultimately, the day of judgment will bring joy to believers who long for their eternal home. We are spiritual foreigners here, living in hope for the day when all is made right.