Scripture reading: 2 Peter 3:9–13
Key verse: 1 Corinthians 16:13
Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.
The rapture of the church, the second coming of Christ, and the judgment seat of Christ have long been subjects of much debate among Christians. Varying thoughts about when the church will be raptured abound.
However, you can trust this fact: Jesus will do exactly what He promised. He will return for you. It is easy to see how misconstrued theologies often obscure the impact of God’s will for our lives.
Immediately following Paul’s clarification of the rapture to the Thessalonian church is an exhortation for them to return to faithful, vibrant, sober living. The Thessalonians had been focused on the rapture and were worried that they might have missed it. Many of them had stopped working. In essence, Paul wrote to tell them to go back to work—to be watchful and not lazy.
Paul was not the only apostle to encounter this type of error concerning future events. Peter dealt with false teaching and realized the deadly threat it presented to the young church. In his second letter, Peter admonished his readers to be diligent in their faith and to remember that God is not slow in keeping His promise (2 Peter 3:9).
Warren Wiersbe observed, “God’s ‘delay’ is actually an indication that He has a plan for this world and that He is working His plan.” Remain watchful and prayerful in all you do.
Lord, help me remain watchful and prayerful as I await Your return. Help me live faithfully, vibrantly, and soberly while I wait.[1]
[1] Stanley, C. F. (2000). Into His presence (p. 355). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers.
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