In 2 Peter Chapter 3 of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, there are several recommendations mentioned for believers. Here is a list of the things it advises to do and not to do:

Wise actions:

1. Remembrance of the words of the prophets and apostles: “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” (2 Peter 3:2).
2. Growing in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ: “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:18).
3. Looking forward to the coming day of the Lord and anticipating His promises: “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness” (2 Peter 3:13).
4. Being diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless: “Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless” (2 Peter 3:14).

Unwise actions:

1. Mocking or scoffing at the idea of the second coming of Jesus: “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 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” (2 Peter 3:3-4).
2. Forgetting or neglecting God’s judgment in the past: “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: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished” (2 Peter 3:5-6).
3. Being deceived by false doctrines and destructive teachings: “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” (2 Peter 3:16).
4. Being led astray by the error of lawless people: “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 steadfastness” (2 Peter 3:17).

These recommendations and admonitions aim to encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith, be watchful of false teachings and doubts, and continue growing in the knowledge and grace of Jesus Christ while awaiting His return.

2 Peter Chapter 3 KJV – Dos And Don’ts

Did you know that, according to the Barna Group, 41% of Americans believe Jesus will return by 2050? Whether you’re part of that statistic or not, it’s clear that the topic of Christ’s second coming is an important one for Christians.

In 2 Peter Chapter 3, the apostle Peter offers some practical dos and don’ts for believers as they anticipate the return of Jesus Christ.

This passage serves as a guide for us to prepare ourselves spiritually and live in a way that honors God, while also warning us against certain behaviors that could lead us astray.

As you read through this article, you’ll discover insights into how to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, as well as how to look forward to His coming with eager anticipation.

We’ll also discuss the dangers of mocking the idea of Christ’s return, being deceived by false doctrines, and neglecting the lessons of God’s past judgments.

By following the dos and don’ts outlined in 2 Peter Chapter 3, you can find greater peace and safety in your spiritual journey, while also preparing yourself to be found ‘without spot and blameless’ when Jesus returns. Also see: 2 Peter Chapter 2 KJV – Dos and Don’ts

Key Takeaways

• 2 Peter Chapter 3 provides practical dos and don’ts for believers anticipating the return of Jesus Christ, in order to avoid behaviors that could lead them astray.
• Remembrance of the words of prophets and apostles, as well as scriptural memory, are important for guiding and enriching believers’ lives and fostering spiritual growth.
• Graceful growth and knowledge expansion through Bible study, fellowship, Christian education, life application, and evangelism are essential for spiritual development.
• To anticipate the coming Day of the Lord with hope and purpose, believers should focus on maintaining an unblemished faith in Christ, pursuing peace, and avoiding false doctrines and destructive teachings through discernment and guidance from trusted spiritual leaders or Scriptures.

Remembrance of the words of the prophets and apostles (2 Peter 3:2)

Don’t forget to cherish and reflect upon the wise words spoken by the prophets and apostles, as they’re vital in guiding and enriching our lives.

By keeping their prophetic reminders and apostolic teachings at the forefront of our minds, we allow ourselves to be led by holy guidance, ensuring our safety and well-being.

The remembrance of the words of the prophets and apostles is like a guiding compass that helps believers stay on the right path and maintain their faith.

Examples:

1. The Exodus Story – In the book of Exodus, the Israelites were delivered from slavery in Egypt through the leadership of Moses, a prophet of God. Throughout their journey in the wilderness, God gave them commandments and instructions through Moses. These words of the prophet served as a constant reminder for the Israelites to stay faithful to God and to follow His commandments, even in the face of challenges and temptations.
2. The Sermon on the Mount – In the New Testament, Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount, which contains some of His most well-known teachings. In this sermon, Jesus emphasized the importance of righteousness, humility, love, and forgiveness. His words served as a guide for His followers, reminding them of the values and principles they should uphold as believers. The remembrance of His words helps Christians to shape their lives and relationships in accordance with His teachings.
3. Paul’s Letters – The Apostle Paul wrote several letters to different churches and individuals, addressing various issues and providing guidance. In his letters, Paul reminded believers of the teachings of Jesus and the commandments of God. For example, in his letter to the Corinthians, Paul stressed the importance of love, unity, and spiritual gifts within the church. The remembrance of Paul’s words helps Christians to navigate challenges, resolve conflicts, and live out their faith in practical ways.

Also see: 10 Examples: Remember The Words Of The Prophets And Apostles

Growing in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18)

Engaging in Christ-centered learning and focusing on spiritual development will not only enrich your life but also provide a sense of safety and security in the ever-changing world.

To make this journey more interesting and engaging, consider the following table which highlights five key aspects of graceful growth and knowledge expansion:

Each of these aspects contributes to a well-rounded, Savior’s wisdom-filled life. As you embark on your journey of spiritual development, remember to practice humility, forgiveness, patience, thankfulness, and love.

These qualities will allow God’s grace to flow through you, transforming your heart and mind.

In addition, knowledge expansion through activities such as Bible study, fellowship with other believers, Christian education, applying learned principles to your daily life, and evangelism will deepen your understanding of God’s Word and strengthen your relationship with Jesus Christ.

Growing in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is like nurturing a seed that gradually grows into a flourishing tree, bearing fruit and providing shade.

Examples:

1. The Parable of the Mustard Seed – In Matthew 13:31-32, Jesus tells the parable of the mustard seed. He compares the kingdom of heaven to a tiny mustard seed that grows into a large tree, providing shelter for the birds. This parable illustrates the concept of growth and emphasizes the transformative power of faith. Similarly, growing in grace and knowledge involves starting with a small seed of faith and continually nourishing it to deepen our understanding and relationship with Jesus Christ.
2. The Disciples’ Journey – The disciples of Jesus serve as examples of individuals who experienced growth in their faith and knowledge of Jesus. Initially, they were simple fishermen and tax collectors, but through their interactions with Jesus, they witnessed His teachings, miracles, and ultimately His resurrection. As they spent time with Him, their understanding and faith grew, transforming them into bold and dedicated followers who continued spreading the message of Christ after His ascension.
3. Personal Spiritual Growth – Throughout the New Testament, there are various passages that encourage believers to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. In Ephesians 4:15, the apostle Paul writes about speaking the truth in love and growing up in every way into Christ. This highlights the importance of continually maturing in our understanding of Christ’s teachings, practicing His commandments, and reflecting His character in our lives. It is a process of continuous growth, deepening our knowledge, and living out the grace we have received.

Just as a seed requires nurturing, watering, and sunlight to grow into a healthy tree, believers are encouraged to invest time in prayer, studying Scripture, fellowship with other believers, and applying God’s principles to their lives.

By doing so, they can grow in grace, deepen their knowledge of Jesus Christ, and bear the fruits of faith, love, and righteousness. Also see: 10 Examples: Growing In Grace And Knowledge Of Our Lord And Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18)

Looking forward to the coming day of the Lord and anticipating His promises (2 Peter 3:13)

In anticipation of the coming day of the Lord and His promises, you’re called to live with hope and purpose, knowing that God’s plans are unfolding for your ultimate redemption and the restoration of all creation.

Embracing God’s faithfulness and the prophetic expectation of Christ’s return, you can find comfort and assurance amidst life’s challenges.

Hopeful living, grounded in the assurance of the coming Day of the Lord, allows you to face uncertainty with courage and conviction, knowing that the fulfillment of God’s promises is on the horizon.

Anticipating promises from the Lord gives you strength to persevere through trials and tribulations, as you trust in His perfect timing and unwavering goodness.

As you remain steadfast in your faith, you’ll experience a growing sense of peace and security, knowing that the Day of the Lord is coming and His promises will be fulfilled.

Keep your eyes on the horizon, eagerly awaiting the glorious day when all things will be made new, and let that hopeful expectation guide your every step as you journey through this life, held securely in the loving arms of your Savior.

Looking forward to the coming day of the Lord and anticipating His promises is like eagerly awaiting the dawn of a new day, knowing that it brings hope, renewal, and the fulfillment of God’s divine plans.

Examples:

1. The Promise of the Messiah – Throughout the Old Testament, prophets foretold the coming of the Messiah, who would bring salvation and establish God’s kingdom on earth. The people of Israel eagerly awaited the fulfillment of this promise, looking forward to the day when the Savior would come. Their anticipation was eventually realized with the birth of Jesus Christ, fulfilling God’s promise and bringing hope to humanity.
2. Jesus’ Promise of His Return – In the New Testament, Jesus Himself spoke about His second coming and the establishment of a new heaven and a new earth. He assured His disciples and believers that He would return to judge the world and gather His followers to be with Him forever. This promise instills hope and anticipation in the hearts of believers, as they eagerly await the day when Christ will fulfill His promise and bring about a new era of righteousness and eternal life.
3. The Book of Revelation – The book of Revelation provides a vivid description of the events leading up to the day of the Lord and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises. It portrays a future where evil is defeated, and God’s righteous reign is established. The book encourages believers to persevere, remain faithful, and look forward to the day when God’s plans will be fully realized, bringing about a new heaven and a new earth characterized by righteousness and eternal joy.

Also see: 10 Examples: Looking Forward To The Coming Day Of The Lord And Anticipating His Promises (2 Peter 3:13)

Being diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless (2 Peter 3:14)

Striving to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless is a vital aspect of your Christian walk.

Peaceful diligence, spotless character, blameless living, and pursuing peace are all central to maintaining an unblemished faith in Christ. With the world’s constant distractions and temptations, it can be challenging to uphold these virtues, but their importance cannot be understated.

By aligning your life with God’s will and seeking His guidance in all things, you can find the strength and support needed to live a life that is pleasing to Him. Living a life that exemplifies these qualities is not an easy task, but the rewards are eternal.

Here are the key qualities to focus on:

1. Peaceful diligence – This is the act of intentionally seeking and maintaining peace within yourself and your relationships, staying focused on your faith and purpose, and consistently working towards spiritual growth.
2. Spotless character – This involves living a life of integrity, honesty, and purity, refraining from sinful behaviors, and seeking to reflect Christ’s character in all aspects of your life.
3. Blameless living – This means striving to live a life free of wrongdoing, being accountable for your actions, and quickly seeking forgiveness and reconciliation when necessary.
4. Pursuing peace – Actively working to maintain harmony within your relationships and environment, seeking resolution to conflicts, and fostering a spirit of unity and understanding among those around you.

As you continue on this journey, you will find safety in Christ’s love, peace in His presence, and the strength to overcome life’s challenges.

Remember, your unblemished faith is a shining example to others, as you demonstrate the transformative power of God’s love in your life.

Being diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless is like maintaining a clean and well-kept house, ready to welcome an honored guest, with everything in order and free from any blemishes.

Examples:

1. The Parable of the Ten Virgins – In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins awaiting the arrival of the bridegroom. Five of them were wise and prepared with enough oil for their lamps, while the other five were foolish and unprepared. When the bridegroom finally arrived, the wise virgins were ready to go into the wedding feast, but the foolish ones were left outside. This parable illustrates the importance of being diligent, prepared, and blameless in anticipation of the Lord’s return.
2. The Call to Holiness – Throughout the New Testament, believers are repeatedly encouraged to pursue holiness and live blameless lives. In 1 Thessalonians 5:23, Paul writes, “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” This admonition emphasizes the need to diligently maintain spiritual discipline, purity, and integrity, seeking to be found by Christ in peace and without spot.
3. The Pursuit of Righteousness – In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), Jesus teaches about the importance of righteousness and living according to God’s commandments. He encourages His followers to be diligent in their pursuit of righteousness, to love their enemies, to forgive, and to practice genuine faith. By cultivating these virtues and aligning their lives with God’s standards, believers strive to be found in a state of peace and blamelessness when Christ returns.

Also see: 10 Examples: Being Diligent to Be Found by Him in Peace, Without Spot and Blameless (2 Peter 3:14)

Mocking or scoffing at the idea of the second coming of Jesus (2 Peter 3:3-4)

It’s not uncommon for people to mock or scoff at the idea of Jesus’ second coming, as mentioned in 2 Peter 3:3-4. However, this skepticism shouldn’t deter believers from holding fast to their faith and anticipating Christ’s return.

Scoffers’ impact on the minds of believers can be disheartening, but it’s essential to remember that the Bible has always foretold that there would be doubters and mockers in the last days.

Instead of letting their disbelief shake your faith, take it as one of the second coming signs and use it as motivation to prepare yourself spiritually for Jesus’ return.

Engage in Jesus’ return preparations by staying committed to your faith, growing in your relationship with God, and looking forward to the fulfillment of prophecy.

Prophecy fulfillment is an essential aspect of the Christian faith, and by remaining steadfast in your belief, you’ll be ready to embrace the end times with confidence and peace.

As you witness the second coming signs unfolding around you, focus on your end times readiness by nurturing your spiritual life through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers.

Remember that Jesus promised to return for His faithful followers, and by staying vigilant and devoted to God’s Word, you’ll be able to stand firm in the face of scoffers and skeptics.

So, as you encounter those who mock the idea of Jesus’ second coming, let their disbelief serve as a reminder of the importance of your faith and the assurance of Christ’s eventual return.

Examples:

1. Noah and the Flood – In Matthew 24:37-39, Jesus draws a parallel between the days of Noah and the second coming of the Son of Man. During Noah’s time, people lived in wickedness and ignored Noah’s warning about the coming flood. They mocked and scoffed at the idea of impending judgment, only to be caught unaware when the floodwaters came and destroyed them all. This example illustrates the consequences of disregarding the prophetic warnings and the severe judgment that ensued.
2. The Prophets of Old – Throughout the Old Testament, there were instances where the prophets proclaimed impending judgments or events that would come to pass. However, many people mocked and scoffed at these prophetic messages, refusing to take them seriously. In Jeremiah 20:7-9, the prophet Jeremiah lamented the mockery and derision he faced for proclaiming God’s messages. The consequences of dismissing the words of the prophets often resulted in calamity and destruction.
3. Jesus’ Predictions – In the Gospels, Jesus foretold His own death, resurrection, and eventual return. However, some individuals, including religious leaders, mocked and scoffed at His words. In Matthew 27:39-43, as Jesus hung on the cross, people passing by ridiculed Him, saying if He was the Son of God, He should save Himself. These mockings revealed a lack of understanding and faith in the divine plan of redemption.

Also see: 10 Examples: Mocking or scoffing at the idea of the second coming of Jesus (2 Peter 3:3-4)

Forgetting or neglecting God’s judgment in the past (2 Peter 3:5-6)

Don’t let yourself forget or neglect the fact that God has judged in the past, as mentioned in 2 Peter 3:5-6. It’s crucial to remember these past judgments and not be ignorant of them, in order to avoid repeating historical errors.

The Bible reminds us not to become complacent or ignorant of the divine lessons learned from these past events. Ignoring these lessons can lead to severe consequences, as history has shown time and time again.

Embrace the importance of remembrance to ensure you stay on the right path and maintain a strong relationship with God.

Consider the following table to better understand the significance of past judgment analysis and the consequences of neglect:

By remembering and learning from these past judgments, you can avoid repeating the same mistakes and falling into the same traps.

Keep in mind that your subconscious desire for safety is best fulfilled by staying close to God and following His guidance.

Acknowledging and understanding His past judgments will provide you with the wisdom and direction needed to navigate through life, ensuring your safety and well-being.

Forgetting or neglecting God’s judgment in the past is like erasing history, disregarding the lessons learned from past events, and repeating the same mistakes that led to those judgments.

Examples:

1. The Flood of Noah – In 2 Peter 3:5-6, the apostle Peter refers to the judgment of the world through the Great Flood during the time of Noah. The people of that generation ignored Noah’s warnings and lived in wickedness, which ultimately led to their destruction. By forgetting or neglecting this past judgment, they failed to recognize the importance of righteousness and the consequences of their actions. Neglecting God’s judgment in the past can blind individuals to the need for repentance and can lead to repeating the same sinful behaviors.
2. Israel’s Rebellion in the Wilderness – The Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their deliverance from Egypt provides another example of neglecting God’s judgment. Despite experiencing God’s miraculous acts and provision, the Israelites repeatedly grumbled, rebelled, and turned away from God’s commands. As a result, they faced various judgments and consequences, such as being prohibited from entering the Promised Land. Forgetting or neglecting these judgments undermined their trust in God and hindered their spiritual growth.
3. Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah – In Genesis 19, the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed by fire and brimstone due to their extreme wickedness. The inhabitants of these cities neglected God’s righteous standards and engaged in rampant immorality. Lot’s wife, who looked back with longing while fleeing the city, serves as a reminder of the danger of clinging to sinful pasts and disregarding the judgment of God. Forgetting or neglecting the judgment upon these cities can lead to complacency and a lack of moral vigilance.

Also see: 10 Examples: Forgetting Or Neglecting God’s Judgment In The Past (2 Peter 3:5-6)

Being deceived by false doctrines and destructive teachings (2 Peter 3:16)

Beware of being led astray by false doctrines and harmful teachings, as mentioned in 2 Peter 3:16.

False teachings impact not only your spiritual well-being but also your relationships and overall peace of mind.

Avoiding deception requires discerning doctrines and recognizing falsehood, and by doing so, you protect yourself from the destructive beliefs consequences that can tarnish your faith and trust in God.

Being deceived by false doctrines and destructive teachings is like falling into a treacherous pit, lured by a deceptive mirage that leads one astray from the truth and causes harm.

To stay safe in your spiritual journey, it’s essential to develop your understanding of God’s Word and cultivate discernment through prayer and constant reflection.

When you come across teachings that seem questionable or contradictory, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from trusted spiritual leaders or consult the Scriptures for clarity.

Remember that your desire for safety and well-being is deeply rooted in your faith, and staying vigilant against false doctrines is an integral part of preserving that faith.

By consistently seeking truth and wisdom, you can navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that you’re grounded in God’s love and guidance.

Examples:

1. The Serpent’s Deception – In the book of Genesis, the serpent deceived Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden by distorting God’s words and enticing them to eat from the forbidden tree. They were deceived by false teachings, which led to their disobedience and the introduction of sin into the world. This example highlights the destructive consequences of being misled and the importance of discerning and adhering to the truth.
2. False Prophets – Throughout the Bible, warnings are given about false prophets who arise, proclaiming deceptive teachings and leading people astray. In Jeremiah 23:16, the prophet speaks against false prophets who spread lies and visions of their own imagination. Jesus also warned His disciples about false Christs and false prophets who would arise, performing signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect (Matthew 24:24). These instances emphasize the danger of being swayed by false doctrines and the need for discernment and a firm foundation in the truth of God’s Word.
3. Early Church Heresies – In the early Christian church, various heresies emerged that distorted essential doctrines of the faith. For example, the Gnostics promoted a dualistic worldview, denying the full humanity of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul addressed false teachings and warned the believers against being deceived by these destructive doctrines. His letters, such as Colossians and Galatians, emphasized the importance of holding fast to the true gospel and avoiding deceptive teachings.

Also see: 10 Examples: Being deceived by false doctrines and destructive teachings (2 Peter 3:16)

Being led astray by the error of wicked people (2 Peter 3:17)

You’re not alone in facing the challenge of being led astray by the error of wicked people, as mentioned in 2 Peter 3:17. Avoiding wickedness and overcoming deception can be difficult in a world filled with temptations and false teachings.

Being led astray by the error of wicked people is like being entangled in a web spun by deceitful spiders, where their misleading words and actions trap unsuspecting victims, pulling them away from the path of truth and righteousness.

One of the best ways to strengthen your faith and resist temptation is by regularly immersing yourself in the Word of God.

Reading the Bible, attending church services, and participating in Bible study groups can help you build a solid foundation of biblical knowledge. This foundation enables you to discern evil and identify false teachings more easily.

Additionally, surrounding yourself with like-minded believers who support and encourage you in your spiritual journey can help you stay strong and accountable. Remember, you have the power to overcome deception and lead a life rooted in truth and righteousness.

Examples:

1. The Golden Calf – In the book of Exodus, when Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the commandments from God, the Israelites grew impatient and asked Aaron to make them a god to worship. Aaron succumbed to their demands and fashioned a golden calf, leading the people astray into idolatry and wickedness. Their error stemmed from being influenced by the wickedness and impatience of others, causing them to deviate from God’s commands.
2. False Teachers in the Early Church – The New Testament warns against false teachers who emerged within the early Christian community. These individuals propagated heretical doctrines and engaged in immoral behaviors, leading others astray. The Apostle Peter himself addressed the danger of being influenced by such wicked people in his second letter. Their teachings and actions deceived unsuspecting believers and pulled them away from the truth of the Gospel.
3. Influence of Unbelievers – In various instances throughout the Bible, there are accounts of righteous individuals being led astray by the wickedness and unbelief of others. For instance, King Solomon, known for his wisdom, allowed his many foreign wives to turn his heart away from God, leading him to idolatry and disobedience. The allure and influence of those who do not follow God’s ways can be a powerful force that leads people astray if caution is not exercised.

Also see: 10 Examples: Being led astray by the error of wicked people (2 Peter 3:17)

Conclusion

So, don’t be that person who mocks or scoffs at Jesus’ second coming, or forgets God’s past judgments.

Instead, avoid false doctrines, and don’t let wicked people lead you astray.

Remember to grow in grace and knowledge, anticipate His promises, and strive to be found in peace, without spot and blameless.

In doing so, you’ll be prepared for the day of the Lord, and you’ll find joy in His presence.

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Bigal

Allan Wilson is the creator of the Scriptural Thinking Affirmations Package. Featuring over 200 minutes of mp3 audio Bible affirmations complete with background music. The package comes with the original affirmations PDF ebook and many bonus affirmation Bible studies as well. The affirmations are designed to help you call to remembrance all of the wonderful benefits of being in Christ and the marvelous privilege of being a child of God.

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