2 Peter 3:12
Verse
Context
The Day of the Lord
11Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to conduct yourselves in holiness and godliness12as you anticipate and hasten the coming of the day of God, when the heavens will be destroyed by fire and the elements will melt in the heat.13But in keeping with God’s promise, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The heavens being on fire - See on Pe2 3:10. (note). It was an ancient opinion among the heathens that the earth should be burnt up with fire; so Ovid, Met., lib. i. v. 256. Esse quoque in fatis reminiscitur, adfore tempus, Quo mare, quo tellus, correptaque regia coeli Ardeat; et mundi moles operosa laboret. "Remembering in the fates a time when fire Should to the battlements of heaven aspire, And all his blazing world above should burn, And all the inferior globe to cinders turn." Dryden. Minucius Felix tells us, xxxiv. 2, that it was a common opinion of the Stoics that, the moisture of the earth being consumed, the whole world would catch fire. The Epicureans held the same sentiment; and indeed it appears in various authors, which proves that a tradition of this kind has pretty generally prevailed in the world. But it is remarkable that none have fancied that it will be destroyed by water. The tradition, founded on the declaration of God, was against this; therefore it was not received.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
hasting unto--with the utmost eagerness desiring [WAHL], praying for, and contemplating, the coming Saviour as at hand. The Greek may mean "hastening (that is, urging onward [ALFORD]) the day of God"; not that God's eternal appointment of the time is changeable, but God appoints us as instruments of accomplishing those events which must be first before the day of God can come. By praying for His coming, furthering the preaching of the Gospel for a witness to all nations, and bringing in those whom "the long-suffering of God" waits to save, we hasten the coming of the day of God. The Greek verb is always in New Testament used as neuter (as English Version here), not active; but the Septuagint uses it actively. Christ says, "Surely I come quickly. Amen." Our part is to speed forward this consummation by praying, "Even so, come, Lord Jesus" (Rev 22:20). the coming--Greek, "presence" of a person: usually, of the Saviour. the day of God--God has given many myriads of days to men: one shall be the great "day of God" Himself. wherein--rather as Greek, "on account of (or owing to) which" day. heavens--the upper and lower regions of the sky. melt--Our igneous rocks show that they were once in a liquid state.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God,.... The same with the day of the Lord, Pe2 3:10, and so the Vulgate Latin and Arabic versions here read; and it intends the day of Christ's second coming to judgment, and so is a proof of the deity of Christ; and is called "the day of God", in distinction from man's day, or human judgment, Co1 4:3, which is often fallacious; whereas the judgment of God is according to truth; and because in that day Christ will appear most clearly to be truly and properly God, by the manifest display of his omniscience, omnipotence, and other glorious perfections of his; and because it will be, as the day of God is, a thousand years; and also the day in which God will finish all his works, as on the seventh day the works of creation, on this the works of Providence; when all his purposes, promises, and threatenings, relating to the final state of all persons and things, will be fulfilled, and every work be brought to light, and into judgment, and everything will stand in a clear light; for the day will declare it, either respecting God, or men; and there will be a display, as of his grace and mercy, to his church and people; for it will be the day of his open espousals to them, and of the gladness of his heart; so of his wrath and anger towards the wicked: for this great and dreadful day of the Lord shall burn like an oven, and destroy the wicked, root and branch: and it will be the day of Christ's glorious appearing, and of his kingdom, in which he will reign, before his ancients, gloriously; and when it is ended, God, Father, Son and Spirit, will be all in all: now "the coming" of this day saints should be "looking for" by faith; believing that it certainly will come, since the patriarchs, prophets, Christ himself, the angels of heaven, and the apostles of the Lamb, have all declared and asserted the coming of this day; and they should look for it, and love it, as with the strongest affection for it, and most vehement desire of it, since they will then appear with Christ in glory; and they should look out, and keep looking out for it, as what will be quickly; and though it is not as soon as they desire and expect, yet should still look wistly for it, and with patience and cheerfulness wait for it: yea, they should be "hasting unto" it, or "hastening" it; for though the day is fixed for the coming of Christ, nor can it be altered, as his coming will not be longer, it cannot be sooner, yet it becomes the saints to pray earnestly for it, that it may be quickly, and for the accomplishment of all things that go before it, prepare for it, and lead unto it; such as the conversion of the Jews, and the bringing in of the fulness of the Gentiles; and by putting him in mind of, and pleading with him, his promises concerning these things, and giving him no rest till they are accomplished; there seems to be some reference to the prayers of the Jews for the Messiah's coming, which they desire may be "in haste"; which will show that they are in haste for the coming of this day; and all which things God will hasten, though it will be in his own time: and moreover, saints should be hasting to it by their readiness for it, having their loins girt, and their lights burning, and their lamps trimmed, and they waiting for their Lord's coming, and going forth in acts of faith and love, and in the duties of religion, to meet him, and not slumber and sleep: wherein; in which day, as in Pe2 3:10; or by which; by which coming of Christ, or of the day of God, the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat; at whose coming and presence, and from whose face the heavens and earth shall flee away, just as the earth shook, and the heavens dropped, and Sinai itself moved, when God appeared upon it; see Rev 20:11. This is a repetition of what is said in Pe2 3:10, exciting attention to the exhortation given.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:12 looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along: God’s people can hasten the end by their repentance and godly living (cp. Acts 3:19-20). • the elements will melt away: Cp. Mic 1:3-4; see also Isa 63:19–64:1.
2 Peter 3:12
The Day of the Lord
11Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to conduct yourselves in holiness and godliness12as you anticipate and hasten the coming of the day of God, when the heavens will be destroyed by fire and the elements will melt in the heat.13But in keeping with God’s promise, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Jude
By A.W. Tozer3.5K25:25JudeMRK 16:151PE 1:132PE 3:12JUD 1:3JUD 1:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting the truth as it is. He encourages believers to build themselves up in their faith by reading and studying the Bible, rather than relying on external sources for their religious beliefs. The preacher emphasizes the significance of correct doctrine, which involves acknowledging God's sovereignty, holiness, justice, grace, and love, as well as recognizing oneself as a fallen image of God. He warns against having a distorted concept of Christ and urges believers to hold on to the true teachings of the Bible, even in the face of opposition or temptation. The preacher concludes by encouraging believers to contend for the truth without being contentious and to preserve truth without hurting others.
The Surprising Ways of God
By Otto Koning1.9K1:24:22Work Of GodGEN 25:23MAT 24:141PE 3:92PE 3:12REV 14:6In this sermon transcript, the speaker shares his personal testimony of searching for God and finding hope in Jesus Christ. He reflects on his experiences during World War II and the fear and uncertainty that people face without knowing God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of sharing the message of Jesus with others, so they can have a better way to die and experience the joy of the Lord. He also mentions his decision to become a missionary and the miraculous way God led him on his path.
Fren-05 Questions Et Rponses (Questions and Answers)
By Art Katz1.0K1:02:58Question AnswerISA 53:1MAT 24:14ACT 13:11TH 5:21TI 6:132PE 3:102PE 3:12In this sermon, the speaker addresses the question of how to approach being part of an evangelical assembly that rejects the principles discussed in the conference. He emphasizes the importance of being conscious of the end times and the anticipation of the day of the Lord. The speaker believes that the gospel of the kingdom has not yet been fully proclaimed and calls for a demonstration of the gospel through holy conversations and godliness. He challenges the notion that peace is achieved through international negotiations or military power, stating that the condition of the church is what determines the length of days.
The Revelation of Jesus: Bridegroom, King, and Judge (Rev. 1)
By Mike Bickle1457:00The Majesty of JesusThe Role of the Church in End TimesDAN 7:13MAT 16:18MAT 28:18JHN 14:13ROM 8:37EPH 5:272PE 3:121JN 4:18REV 1:1REV 19:10Mike Bickle emphasizes the revelation of Jesus as the Bridegroom, King, and Judge in Revelation chapter 1, highlighting the importance of understanding His majesty to equip believers for the challenges ahead. He outlines 18 facets of Jesus' majesty that are essential for the church to prepare for His second coming and the end-time events. Bickle stresses that the church is not waiting for Jesus but is called to actively participate in the unfolding of God's action plan, which includes the Great Tribulation and the preparation of the bride. He encourages believers to embrace their role in this divine narrative, recognizing the significance of prayer and unity in hastening the coming of the Lord. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of Jesus' character and His plans for the world.
Psalm 8
By Henry Law0PSA 8:1PSA 8:4MAT 21:161CO 1:27PHP 2:9HEB 2:62PE 3:12Henry Law preaches about the excellence of God's name in all His works, especially revealed in Christ. Believers are privileged to claim an interest in God through His Son, Jesus Christ. The glory of God surpasses human comprehension, yet is made manifest on earth through Jesus Christ. The power of God's truth, proclaimed by feeble lips, prevails over all opposition. Despite the vastness of the universe, God's tender care for mankind, exemplified in Jesus, is a marvel that surpasses all creation.
Lord Jesus, Come Quickly, Come Soon!
By David Wilkerson0Anticipation of Christ's ReturnThe Role of the Holy SpiritMRK 13:192PE 3:12REV 22:7David Wilkerson emphasizes the urgency of longing for Jesus' return, as expressed in Revelation 22:7 and 22:12, where Christ promises to come quickly and reward each according to their works. He highlights the collective cry of the Spirit and the bride, urging believers to actively pray for Christ's return, as this prayer can hasten His coming. Wilkerson points out that the Holy Spirit's desire for Jesus to return reflects the completion of His work on earth, and encourages believers to embody this prayer in their lives. He reminds us that our expectant prayers can influence the timing of Christ's return, as seen in 2 Peter 3:12. Ultimately, he calls for a global awakening among believers to fervently pray, 'Jesus, come.'
Rev. 6:10. How Long?
By Horatius Bonar0God's Patience and Long-sufferingThe Cry for JusticeEXO 10:3PSA 6:3PSA 13:1PSA 35:17PSA 79:5JER 4:14HAB 1:2MAT 24:32PE 3:12REV 6:10Horatius Bonar explores the profound question 'How long?' as expressed in Revelation 6:10, emphasizing its significance in human experience and divine communication. He categorizes the cry into three main dialogues: from man to man, from man to God, and from God to man, illustrating the deep yearning for justice and understanding in a world filled with suffering and evil. Bonar highlights the themes of complaint, submission, inquiry, and expectation in the human cry, while also reflecting on God's long-suffering, admonition, and earnestness in His call to humanity. Ultimately, the sermon serves as a reminder of the hope and faith that believers hold onto as they await God's ultimate justice and redemption.
The Sweet Clusters of Canaan's Grapes
By Anne Dutton0ROM 8:182CO 4:171PE 1:32PE 3:12REV 21:4Anne Dutton preaches about the hope and joy that believers have in the promise of eternal glory with Christ in heaven, where all tears, pain, and sorrow will be wiped away, and we will feast upon the Tree of Life. She emphasizes the importance of enduring present troubles and afflictions with patience, knowing that they are preparing us for our eternal rest and advancing our crown in heaven. Dutton encourages believers to rejoice in the hope of future glory, to glorify God in both doing and suffering His will, and to eagerly await the day of God when we will enter into the joy of our Lord for eternity.
Desire and the End of the Age
By A.W. Tozer0Yearning for ChristThe Return of ChristMAT 6:19JHN 14:3ROM 8:18PHP 3:20COL 3:21TH 4:16HEB 11:162PE 3:121JN 3:2REV 22:20A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of a deep, personal yearning for the return of Christ, contrasting it with a mere intellectual understanding of eschatology. He argues that the modern church has often prioritized the utility of the cross over the beauty of Christ Himself, leading to a contractual relationship with Him rather than a personal one. This lack of emotional connection results in diminished anticipation for Christ's return, as many Christians find comfort in their current lives and material possessions. Tozer warns that this comfort can dull the desire for heavenly hope, which should be a vibrant part of a believer's faith. Ultimately, he calls for a rekindling of love and longing for Christ to restore the power of the advent hope.
The Ark Convicts of Righteousness
By Allan Halton0GEN 6:5JHN 15:22JHN 16:8PHP 1:28HEB 11:71PE 5:12PE 2:52PE 3:12Allan Halton preaches on the significance of Noah's building of the ark as a demonstration of God's provision for salvation in a wicked world, justifying God's judgment on the ungodly. Similarly, the life and death of Jesus Christ became a condemnation of the evil world, revealing God's righteousness and providing a way of escape from sin and judgment. The preaching of Noah and the testimony of Christ convicted the unbelieving world, demonstrating God's call to repentance and salvation. The Holy Spirit continues this work by convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment through the lives of believers, justifying God's eventual judgment on the world.
The Supernatural Hope
By A.B. Simpson0Supernatural HopeSecond Coming Of ChristDAN 7:27ZEC 14:9MAT 24:30JHN 14:3ROM 8:191CO 15:42TIT 2:13HEB 11:102PE 3:12REV 20:6A.B. Simpson emphasizes the supernatural hope of Christ's return, urging believers to look forward to the glorious appearing of Jesus as a remedy against the skepticism of modern thought. He critiques the evolutionary mindset that dismisses divine intervention in history, asserting that both nature and scripture testify to a future transformation and resurrection. Simpson illustrates this hope through biblical figures like Enoch, Noah, and Abraham, who exemplified faith in God's promises. He concludes that this hope not only inspires Christian living and service but also serves as a powerful message to the world, calling for repentance and readiness for the coming King.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The heavens being on fire - See on Pe2 3:10. (note). It was an ancient opinion among the heathens that the earth should be burnt up with fire; so Ovid, Met., lib. i. v. 256. Esse quoque in fatis reminiscitur, adfore tempus, Quo mare, quo tellus, correptaque regia coeli Ardeat; et mundi moles operosa laboret. "Remembering in the fates a time when fire Should to the battlements of heaven aspire, And all his blazing world above should burn, And all the inferior globe to cinders turn." Dryden. Minucius Felix tells us, xxxiv. 2, that it was a common opinion of the Stoics that, the moisture of the earth being consumed, the whole world would catch fire. The Epicureans held the same sentiment; and indeed it appears in various authors, which proves that a tradition of this kind has pretty generally prevailed in the world. But it is remarkable that none have fancied that it will be destroyed by water. The tradition, founded on the declaration of God, was against this; therefore it was not received.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
hasting unto--with the utmost eagerness desiring [WAHL], praying for, and contemplating, the coming Saviour as at hand. The Greek may mean "hastening (that is, urging onward [ALFORD]) the day of God"; not that God's eternal appointment of the time is changeable, but God appoints us as instruments of accomplishing those events which must be first before the day of God can come. By praying for His coming, furthering the preaching of the Gospel for a witness to all nations, and bringing in those whom "the long-suffering of God" waits to save, we hasten the coming of the day of God. The Greek verb is always in New Testament used as neuter (as English Version here), not active; but the Septuagint uses it actively. Christ says, "Surely I come quickly. Amen." Our part is to speed forward this consummation by praying, "Even so, come, Lord Jesus" (Rev 22:20). the coming--Greek, "presence" of a person: usually, of the Saviour. the day of God--God has given many myriads of days to men: one shall be the great "day of God" Himself. wherein--rather as Greek, "on account of (or owing to) which" day. heavens--the upper and lower regions of the sky. melt--Our igneous rocks show that they were once in a liquid state.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God,.... The same with the day of the Lord, Pe2 3:10, and so the Vulgate Latin and Arabic versions here read; and it intends the day of Christ's second coming to judgment, and so is a proof of the deity of Christ; and is called "the day of God", in distinction from man's day, or human judgment, Co1 4:3, which is often fallacious; whereas the judgment of God is according to truth; and because in that day Christ will appear most clearly to be truly and properly God, by the manifest display of his omniscience, omnipotence, and other glorious perfections of his; and because it will be, as the day of God is, a thousand years; and also the day in which God will finish all his works, as on the seventh day the works of creation, on this the works of Providence; when all his purposes, promises, and threatenings, relating to the final state of all persons and things, will be fulfilled, and every work be brought to light, and into judgment, and everything will stand in a clear light; for the day will declare it, either respecting God, or men; and there will be a display, as of his grace and mercy, to his church and people; for it will be the day of his open espousals to them, and of the gladness of his heart; so of his wrath and anger towards the wicked: for this great and dreadful day of the Lord shall burn like an oven, and destroy the wicked, root and branch: and it will be the day of Christ's glorious appearing, and of his kingdom, in which he will reign, before his ancients, gloriously; and when it is ended, God, Father, Son and Spirit, will be all in all: now "the coming" of this day saints should be "looking for" by faith; believing that it certainly will come, since the patriarchs, prophets, Christ himself, the angels of heaven, and the apostles of the Lamb, have all declared and asserted the coming of this day; and they should look for it, and love it, as with the strongest affection for it, and most vehement desire of it, since they will then appear with Christ in glory; and they should look out, and keep looking out for it, as what will be quickly; and though it is not as soon as they desire and expect, yet should still look wistly for it, and with patience and cheerfulness wait for it: yea, they should be "hasting unto" it, or "hastening" it; for though the day is fixed for the coming of Christ, nor can it be altered, as his coming will not be longer, it cannot be sooner, yet it becomes the saints to pray earnestly for it, that it may be quickly, and for the accomplishment of all things that go before it, prepare for it, and lead unto it; such as the conversion of the Jews, and the bringing in of the fulness of the Gentiles; and by putting him in mind of, and pleading with him, his promises concerning these things, and giving him no rest till they are accomplished; there seems to be some reference to the prayers of the Jews for the Messiah's coming, which they desire may be "in haste"; which will show that they are in haste for the coming of this day; and all which things God will hasten, though it will be in his own time: and moreover, saints should be hasting to it by their readiness for it, having their loins girt, and their lights burning, and their lamps trimmed, and they waiting for their Lord's coming, and going forth in acts of faith and love, and in the duties of religion, to meet him, and not slumber and sleep: wherein; in which day, as in Pe2 3:10; or by which; by which coming of Christ, or of the day of God, the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat; at whose coming and presence, and from whose face the heavens and earth shall flee away, just as the earth shook, and the heavens dropped, and Sinai itself moved, when God appeared upon it; see Rev 20:11. This is a repetition of what is said in Pe2 3:10, exciting attention to the exhortation given.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:12 looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along: God’s people can hasten the end by their repentance and godly living (cp. Acts 3:19-20). • the elements will melt away: Cp. Mic 1:3-4; see also Isa 63:19–64:1.