As we’ve already seen at the beginning of 2 Peter 3, the day of the Lord is coming! But so what? Is it merely an academic exercise to learn about God’s great day of judgment?

“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed. Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness” (2 Peter 3:10-11).

What sort of people should we be? Let’s consider a few answers to Peter’s unanswered question.

Steadfast People

  • When we settle into the reality that this world is coming to an end, it should lead us to a single-minded dedication and determination to faithfully follow our God. We don’t swerve or getting distracted. As Paul concluded his discussion on the eternal judgment in 1 Corinthians 15, he said, “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain” (1 Cor. 15:58).
  • Even the earliest Christians were continually (or steadfastly) devoting themselves to the apostles’ teachings and fellowship after their conversion (Acts 2:42).

Prayerful People

  • When we’re anxious or afraid, know that the Lord is at hand and is attentive to our concerns (Phil. 4:6). We’re constantly reminded about how little control we have as we consider judgment, and so we lay our worries at the Master’s feet.
  • As the Hebrews writer said about Jesus, “Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Heb. 4:14-16).

Soul-Winning People

  • Eternal judgment isn’t just meaningful for us personally. It also motivates us to share the news to hopefully save others (2 Cor. 5:11). We don’t want to see anyone unprepared, so we always weave the day of the Lord into our conversations with unbelievers.
  • Soul-winning was on Jesus’ mind as he sent out his disciples for the last time before his ascension back into heaven. As he said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matt. 28:19-20).

Sacrificial People

  • As Jesus laid down his life for ours (Rom. 5:8), we lay our lives down as a daily sacrifice for him (Rom. 12:1). Our hearts and minds are transformed into servants of our Master, waiting for his return. We’re no longer concerned about our business, but his.
  • We can hold on to our “stuff” with a looser grip, passing it along to others or using it for their benefit. We can give freely of our time, knowing that our Master may return at any moment. We don’t think of this world as our home, so we’re able to be stewards rather than “owners” of our possessions.

Joyful People

  • Knowing the day of the Lord is approaching, rather than cowering in fear, we’re full of joy knowing there’s a home waiting for us! Sure, we may have difficult days and challenging interactions, but there’s always a reason to be happy, knowing what’s on the horizon.
  • Paul’s letter to the Philippian church is quite possibly the most joyful book of the Bible, as he said, “Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord …” (Phil. 3:1). And, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice” (Phil. 4:4). How could someone in prison, as Paul was, be so joyful? The day of the Lord and eternal rest were always on his mind!

Conclusion

What sort of person do you want to be? How does eternal judgment change you into someone better? Though Peter never answered the question directly, what are you going to do, having been reminded of the day of the Lord today?