March 17, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Peter Chapter 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 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:
3 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,
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.
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:
6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished:
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.
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.
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.
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.
11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,
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?
13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
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.
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;
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.
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.
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.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 3 of 2 Peter provides a serious yet hopeful reminder of the certainty of the Lord’s return. In a world where many question God’s promises and follow their own desires, Peter calls us to vigilance, patience, and holiness. This passage encourages us not only to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ but also to remain steadfast in faith as we await the new earth where righteousness will dwell.
Commentary
1.The Promise of Christ’s Return (Verses 1-7)
Peter begins with a reminder: we must not forget what the prophets and apostles have spoken about God’s plans. He specifically warns about scoffers who mock the return of Christ, claiming that nothing has changed since the beginning of creation. However, Peter points to the flood— a historical example demonstrating that God brings judgment on sin. Likewise, the present world is reserved for the coming judgment, not by water, but by fire.
2.God’s Patience and the Sudden Coming of the Lord (Verses 8-10)
A crucial point Peter makes is that God’s timeline does not align with ours. “One day with the Lord is like a thousand years.” This does not mean that God delays, but rather that He is patient, desiring that all people come to repentance. Nevertheless, the Day of the Lord will come suddenly and unexpectedly “like a thief in the night,” accompanied by cosmic transformations and the destruction of the earth.
3.A Holy Lifestyle in Preparation (Verses 11-13)
Since the present world will pass away, Peter encourages believers to live holy and godly lives. Rather than clinging to the temporary, we should look forward to the new heavens and the new earth where righteousness will reign.
4.Exhortation to Remain Steadfast (Verses 14-18)
Peter exhorts Christians to exercise patience and to prepare for a life that is blameless before God. He refers to Paul’s writings, which, though sometimes difficult to understand, are often twisted by the ignorant. Finally, Peter calls us to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Summary
2 Peter 3 is a powerful reminder of the certainty of Christ’s return. Despite the scoffers and the apparent delay, God’s promise remains firm. His patience does not signify inactivity but is a sign of His mercy. However, the final judgment will come suddenly, and believers are urged to live holy lives and grow in their knowledge of Jesus Christ. The letter concludes with an encouragement to remain steadfast in faith so that we may enter God’s kingdom of righteousness.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 9—The Work and the Life
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 9 describes God’s selfless love as the source of all life, light, and blessing. This principle of selfless devotion is evident throughout creation, but most especially in the life of Jesus Christ. His existence was marked by sacrifice—he lived to save humanity and set an example of love and service. His followers should adopt the same attitude: a life that does not seek self-fulfillment but instead places the well-being of others at its center. This service is not only a calling but also the path to true happiness and spiritual growth.
Commentary
1.The Source of All Life and Blessing
God is the origin of life and blessing, and everything that exists receives light and joy from Him. Just as sunlight and flowing water nourish all living things, so too should humans receive and share God’s blessings. True fulfillment in life does not come from seeking personal gain but from sharing God’s love with others.
2.Christ as the Ultimate Example of Service
Jesus Christ lived a completely selfless life. His greatest concern was to save fallen humanity, even at the cost of suffering and sacrifice. Likewise, angels were not created for themselves but to serve others. The very essence of heaven is not selfishness but sacrifice and love. Those who reject this mindset separate themselves from God.
3.The Impact of God’s Love in a Person
When Christ’s love dwells in a person’s heart, it cannot remain hidden. It radiates outward and influences all who come into contact with them. A Christian’s life should be like a fresh spring in the desert—bringing refreshment and life to those in need.
4.The Joy of Serving Others
The deepest expression of love for Christ is the desire to help others. This was the principle by which Jesus lived. His life was not one of comfort and ease but of tireless service. Those who follow Him will not focus on their own desires but on the well-being of others.
5.The Importance of Sacrifice
A true disciple of Jesus is willing to make sacrifices so that others may experience the blessing of salvation. This sacrifice can take the form of time, resources, or personal dedication. Those who have received God’s grace cannot keep it to themselves—they will feel compelled to share it with others.
6.Communion with Christ Through Service
Serving others not only brings blessings to the recipients but also to the one who serves. God could have entrusted His work of salvation to angels, but He chose to involve people so that their faith could be strengthened. Anyone who dedicates themselves to God’s service will grow deeper in their experience of His love and truth.
7.The Necessity of Spiritual Growth Through Service
Christian growth does not happen through passive receiving but through active giving. Those who do not live out their faith will lose it. But those who carry out God’s mission and serve others will grow spiritually. This is a divine principle: spiritual strength comes through active engagement.
8.Every Christian is Called to Serve
The Church of Christ is called to bring the Good News to the world. This task is not only for missionaries or preachers but for every believer. Each person can be a witness for Christ through their work, behavior, and relationships. Even those who cannot travel to distant lands can still contribute through prayer, support, and serving in their immediate surroundings.
9.Imitating Christ in Everyday Life
Jesus spent most of His earthly life engaged in everyday work as a carpenter. He demonstrated that every job and every activity can be an opportunity to serve God. Even a simple worker can bear witness to Christ through faithfulness and integrity. Everyone can be a light to those around them and lead others to faith.
10.The Blessing of Selfless Service
Many people believe they are not qualified to work for God’s kingdom, but God does not only call the most talented—He calls every believer. Even the simplest tasks, when done with love, are valuable in God’s kingdom. Those who are faithful in small things will also be entrusted with greater things.
11.No Excuses – Everyone Can Serve
Many wait for a “special opportunity” to serve God, but this is a mistake. The best opportunity is the present moment—by living faithfully, showing love in daily life, and being open to the needs of others. Those who make themselves available to Christ will experience how He uses them and how their lives bear fruit.
12.The Hidden Influence of Service
Some people do not see the visible results of their efforts and feel useless. But God sees everything and will bring hidden deeds to light. Often, the effects of our actions will only be revealed in eternity. Those who remain faithful will ultimately see that no selfless act of service was in vain.
Summary
Chapter 9 teaches that true joy and fulfillment are found in selfless service. God is the source of all blessings, and He desires for us to pass these blessings on to others. Jesus is the highest example of a life of dedication and service. Those who follow Him will not live for themselves but for the good of others.
God has given us the privilege of participating in His work of salvation. This is not only a duty but also a blessing for us. Serving others strengthens our faith, brings us closer to Christ, and fills us with deep joy. Every Christian is called to be a light to others through their work, testimony, and love.
The greatest growth in faith does not come from passivity but from active participation in God’s work. Those who share God’s blessings with others will be blessed themselves. But those who remain spiritually inactive will lose their faith. Therefore, this chapter calls us not to wait but to act immediately and wholeheartedly for Christ—whether in our own homes, churches, or the world.
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