2 Peter 3:10-12

The "Day of the Lord"

There are numerous references to the "day of the Lord" in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 1:8; 1 Peter 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:2). When coupled with Peter's words in 2 Peter 3:10, they can be seen as plainly referring to the second coming of Christ. That coming will be unexpected, like that of a thief (Matthew 24:42-44). Evidently, the word "heavens" stands for the place where the birds fly. They will pass away with a loud noise, which is the noise of destruction and may describe the roaring of a fire (see verse 7). The very building blocks of the universe, or elements which may be atoms or even smaller, will be melted in the flame. The earth and all of man's works in it, such as houses, monuments, etc., will also be burned up.

The fact that this earth and all the works in it will be destroyed should have moved Christians to recognize their ultimate home, or country which is the meaning of the word "manner," and live as if they really were its citizens (1 Peter 3:20-21; Hebrews 11:13-16; 2 Corinthians 4:18). Christ's disciples should, therefore, live a pure and reverent life in the sight of God. The Christian should look forward to the Lord's coming, according to Peter, and be so expectant that he would speed its coming if he could (2 Peter 3:11-12).