2 Peter 3:11-12
“There’s a great day coming” are the words of a familiar and favorite song. Christ’s return is a reality. It is neither some riddle to be solved nor a code to be broken, but a day to be anticipated. When that day will occur, however, remains a mystery to all except God (Matthew 24:36). Therefore, it should not be when that day will come that concerns us the most, but how we live until that day arrives. That was Peter’s concern. He said, “How should we live from here to eternity?” (2 Peter 3:11). Consider the following:
Till Jesus comes, live like Christ.Christ is our example(1 Peter 2:21). We should consider His “steps” (1 Peter 2:21), mind (Philippians 2:5) and His deeds (Acts 10:38). Jesus’ life and teaching were in perfect harmony. He cared enough to die. He loved unconditionally. He did the Father’s will. We will walk in the “paths of righteousness” by living like Christ.
Till Jesus comes, strive to save your family. Noah was a preacher of righteousness (2 Peter 2:5), and yet, he saved only his wife, three sons and three daughters-in-law (1 Peter 3:20). Joshua was a busy leader, but he said, “as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15). The world needs more fathers like Noah and Joshua (cf. Ephesians 6:4).
Till Jesus comes, be supremely committed to the church of Christ. Brethren, never be ashamed of the “church of Christ!” It is the church of the New Testament. Christ died for it (Acts 20:28), and He reigns over it (1 Corinthians 15:25). When He returns, it will be delivered unto God (1 Corinthians 15:24).
Till Jesus comes, strive for unity, peace and harmony within the church. In Ephesians 4:1-6, we find the dispositions and doctrines for Christian unity. The pulse of the church must beat in unison. With the Bible as our guide in faith and practice, we should never allow false doctrine, opinion or supposition to lead the church into error, liberalism or legalism. Let us stand foursquare on the Bible, not swaying to the left or right (Acts 5:29)!
Till Jesus comes, live so that your name is always in the Book of Life. Right now in heaven there is a Book of Life. Moses was aware of this book (Exodus 32:32), so was Paul (Philippians 4:3). Jesus told the disciples, “rejoice because your name is written in heaven” (Luke 10:20). In the Book of Life are names of the redeemed. Is your name in that book right now? Your name is placed there when you become a Christian. Your name remains there by living a faithful life. When the Book of Life is opened (Revelation 20:11-15), will your name be there? Life’s most important thing is having your name in heaven!
