Living in anticipation

“Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming.” 2 Peter 3:11-12a
One theme that is present throughout the Bible – even in the Old Testament – is that Jesus Christ will return to earth to establish His Kingdom. In fact, one of the earliest prophecies recorded in the Bible, was spoken by Enoch and concerned the return of Christ (Jude 1:14-15). Those who say the Second Coming refers to Jesus establishing a spiritual kingdom, which has already come, or those who say it is not going to happen, are deluding themselves.
The Bible tells us of a time of great tribulation such as the world has never seen. God’s judgement will be poured out on a Christ-rejecting world, but those who believe in Jesus will be exempt. Ultimately the world will be destroyed by fire (2 Pet. 3:10), and God will create a new heavens and a new earth (Isa. 65:17).
We are much closer to the end now than when Peter wrote his epistle. Therefore, if he was encouraging his readers how to live in anticipation of Christ’s return, how much more should we heed his words. How should we live? Peter tells us: “live holy and godly lives”. Living in anticipation of Jesus’ return purifies us. We are like the servants who were ready and watching for their master’s return (Matt. 24:45-46, Luke 12:37). Living holy and godly lives means to purge our lives of sin and live for God, seeking to do His will in all things. Keep looking up – Jesus is coming soon.