10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will vanish with a [mighty and thunderous] roar, and the [material] elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and the works that are on it will be [b]burned up.

11 Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be [in the meantime] in holy behavior [that is, in a pattern of daily life that sets you apart as a believer] and in godliness [displaying profound reverence toward our awesome God], 12 [while you earnestly] look for and await the coming of the day of God. For on this day the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the [material] elements will melt with intense heat! 13 But in accordance with His promise we expectantly await new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.

2 Peter 3:10-13 (AMP) 中文 

More about end times

Peter’s description of the end times’ judgment continues. In the last passage he introduced this topic and reminded us of God’s patience. Now he provides greater detail and gets to his point, his question, “How will we respond?”

Stealth catastrophe

This end of the heavens and earth will happen without much warning and certainly no fanfare.  No one knows when the thief will come. So if a thief is expected, the owner remains vigilant. Peter tells us the heavens will vanish and the elements will be burned up with intense heat – like anything that approaches the sun. The earth and what has been done on it will also be burned up. That doesn’t leave much of a home for anyone who might still be on earth! Note: Heavens refers to astronomy, not to God’s abode.

Expectant waiting

In light of this revelation, how do we live now? Do we mock (like in the previous passage)? Not recommended. Peter will tell us in the next passage. But for sure, we must be prepared; we “expectantly await”. Are we waiting for the destruction of the existing heaven and earth? No, we are waiting for the new heavens and new earth. This is where true everlasting righteousness (no sin allowed) will dwell. 

“Christians need to remember the ultimate, ‘bottom-line,’ purpose of biblical eschatology [the study of future end times things]: to make us better Christians here and now.” (Constable commentary)

RЯeflection

• Does this seem too far-fetched to you? Do you believe the Bible is true and these things are truly the Word of God? 
• Are you ready? How are you living now in light of this truth? If it doesn’t phase you, then you may be a practical mocker. But just assenting to its truth is not enough. Read on to see how we should live.