Introduction

1. Peter reminds us that God has given to us everything we need to live a fruitful life in Christ, and to make our call and election sure of our heavenly home!

2. In this lesson, we will continue to extract Peter’s reminders regarding our awareness of false teachers, and the longsuffering of God, in view of the coming judgment day.

Discussion: Peter reminds us…

I. THE REALITY OF FALSE TEACHERS (2 Peter 2:1-3, 18-19; 3:3-4)

A. Peter’s descriptive language alerts us to their deception.

B. We must BEWARE of this reality. To forget is unwise, naive, and opens ourselves to the possibility of falling prey to their “destructive ways” (2 Peter 2:2; Matthew 7:15-16; 1 John 4:1).

II. THE DOOM OF FALSE TEACHERS (2 Peter 2:3-17)

A. Peter gives three examples as a reminder of God’s judgment against ungodliness.

1. The angels who sinned (2:4).

2. The ancient world of Noah’s day (2:5).

3. The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah (2:6).

B. Peter also reminds them that God is fully aware of His righteous people who live amongst an ungodly society (2:9).

1. Noah and his family (2:5).

2. Lot in Sodom—he was plagued by their ungodliness (2:7, 8).

3. Even today, God distinguishes between the good and bad, and continues to deliver those who live for Him (2:9; Psalm 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:13).

III. PROMISE OF HIS COMING (2 Peter 3:1-15)

A. The scoffers were asking “why is it taking so long?” But they “willfully forget” [“to escape the notice of; deliberately ignored] (3:4, 5).

B. The Lord has not forgotten! The passing of time does not affect His promises (3:8).

C. The promise of His coming is “delayed” because of His longsuffering (3:9, 15). However, the day of the Lord WILL COME…” (3:10)!

D. Peter’s final reminder is regarding our conduct and future, eternal home (3:11-13).

Conclusion

1. In view of the fulfillment of the promises of God, the knowledge of Christ, and our diligence to make our call and election sure are the absolute most important reminders for a steadfast Christian life (2 Peter 3:11, 12, 14, 17).

2. “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and for ever. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18).