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IntoThyWord Online Studies | Hebrews 1:5-14 Sat, 14 Nov 2009 13:59:05 -0400 The Sonship of Christ! General idea: Jesus Christ is greater than everything! He is greater than angels, and so are His Name, His role, and His purpose. These has been given by God for Him and presented to us. Jesus is the Son and the eternal Sovereign God; God wants the entire universe to recognize Christ's sonship and LORDSHIP and rule. In fact, angels too must recognize and worship Jesus as LORD. Angels of various categories and responsibilities all must know and see the Son as Royal, God eternal. He who made the universe made you and me, runs all things, and knows all things; His love is inexhaustible and His holiness indescribable. He has always existed and will always endure forever, yet all other things will eventually fade. His enemies'-those who hate God and everything that is good'-will be judged and will be humiliated. Yet, angels are servants of God, messengers to worship Him and care for Him and show Him to others, and even serve us. They are important and precious, sent from God to us; but they are not God nor do they hold any of His attributes. Contexts and Background: This passage in Hebrews sets up an eloquent and carefully crafted case for the clear indication of the infinite deity, superiority, and supremacy of Jesus Christ as the eternal, Holy God, all of which is also documented by the Old Testament. In addition, Jesus is infinitely superior to any created being or entity. This argument uses various verses quoted from the Septuagint (first century Greek translation of the Old Testament most recognizable to the early church and Jews) using key words, such as Son, in order to link the thoughts from the coming Messiah to the revelation and resurrection of Christ Himself, a then common Jewish exegetical technique. These quotes come mostly from Psalm 2:7 and the Old Testament passage 2 Samuel 7:14. Then the 'author,' inspired by the Holy Spirit, is using rhetorical questions to prove Christ's coming and His Supremacy (worshiped by angels) to a misguided church that thought angels were supreme and Christ was also an angel of some sort or at least not as authoritative (Deut. 32:43; 2 Sam. 7:14; Psalm 2:7; 97:7; Acts 13:33). Commentary, Word and Phrase Meanings: Angels mean 'messengers.' Here, they denote heavenly beings that live and work in Heaven. They are messengers sent by God to 'minister,' as in to serve God and humanity. These celestial beings may seem ominous to us, hence why in every encounter in Scripture where they were revealed, people fell to their feet. But, they are created beings and have limited knowledge and attributes. They have the same emotions and will that we have'-the reason one-third of them fell'-and they are curious and interested in the things of God'-the reason two-thirds remained loyal to God. God had not **********told them everything, but now His plan is made known (Eph. 3:10). They serve God in heaven and have many different roles and levels of casts. They can intervene to protect us, and also discipline us. They escort His elect to their heavily reward and glory, and when Christ returns, they will accompany Him in full force and magnitude. The role of angels is very important and needed, but we must never elevate them above what God intended. They are to be honored and respected and obeyed, but they are never to be worshiped or prayed to (Gen. 18; Matt. 18:10; Luke 16:22; Acts. 5:17-21; 12:1-10; Heb. 1:4-15; 13:2; 1 Pet. 1:12; Rev. 22:9) You are my Son. This is a declaration of the Father testifying to the Church that Jesus has finished His work as Messiah via the resurrection. He is indicating the Son is His and is Him for the purpose of exalting Jesus as the eternal God in reality and effectually. This passage quotes Psalm 2:7; 2 Sam. 7:14 (Luke 1:32-33), as being the ultimate Messianic application. Jesus is God's Son; yet, He is God, and He is distinguished from the Father'-One God, two distinctions or Persons, three including the Holy Spirit, the Trinity. The end result is through Christ we have redemption, life, and purpose. This was foretold and now it has come to pass, and is real for us now and through the ages to come. This does not mean we are the son or a son of God or a little god, as some misguided preachers have used this verse to say. There is only One God, and neither you nor I is He. We are 'adopted' as a child, a son or daughter to be redeemed as Jesus establishes our salvation so we may share and participate in the Sonship blessings (John 1:10-13; Rom. 8:21; Phil. 2:15; 1 John 3:1-10; 5:19). Sonship is the relationship of the Son to the Father as testified in this passage and others; it means that Christ is the eternal Son and He has always been the Son of God. This does not just refer to Christ incarnate or as He lived on this earth; it is His eternal attribute. But, this does not mean inferiority. Many good Bible scholars confuse this and say Jesus is the Son only as He was also fully human. This view is contrary to Scripture (Psalm 2:7, Mark. 12:6; Luke. 1:32-35; John 1:18; 3:16; 5:18;.16:28; 17:24-25; Acts 13:33; Rom. 1:4; Eph. 1:22; Heb. 1: 5-14; 7:3; 13:8). No human or angel can be divine or share in divine attributes. There is One God with Three personalities, the Trinity (Psalm 2:7; Matt. 26:63-64; Mark 1:11; John 3:16; 10:36; Acts 13:32-35; Rom. 1:4; 8:15-29; Heb. 2:10; 3:14; 5:5). God brings his firstborn into the world. This means Jesus as the 'Royal Personage' who humbles Himself to 'condescend' to be human, to assume our nature to battle sin. This is also an assault to the belief that this applies to angels or archangels (Luke 2:13-14). Firstborn means the Almighty Lord God (Yahweh), and is applied to Christ. This also means the inheritance rights and the ranking leader. In ancient Semitic cultures, the firstborn son, who holds the right of heir and to rule, had that role. This, a paraphrase quote from Psalm 97:7, also refers to coronation and the superiority of a king'-in this case, the King. This does not mean Jesus was born, because He is eternal; rather it is His role to rule (Ex. 4:22; Deut. 21:17; Psalm 89:26-27; 97:7; Col. 1:15-17). Let all God's angels worship him. Angels worship Christ'-period'-and they proclaim Christ's superiority by worshiping Him. This clears away any assumption that angels are equal or superior. Neither we nor they are to worship anything else except God Himself'-no angel or principality. Christ is presented as superior as and greater than any angel or role of a priest of Israel, the priesthood, or any traditions, and supercedes any decree of the Prophets and Law (Heb. 2:5-18). Angels' winds/spirits. The Greek word 'pneuma' usually refers to the Holy Spirit and only once elsewhere is used for wind, in John 3:8. Here, it concludes that God used the elements and weather as well as angels, and they are subordinate to Christ (Psalm 104:4). Servants/ministers. Angels are servants of God, and through Him, are also servants of humanity; Christ is the Eternal, Preeminent One. Flames of fire. This does not mean the angels are made of fire as some Jewish Rabbis in that day taught. The people to whom this letter is written thought the angels created the world; here, the argument is reversed and proves that only God creates. This also means God's heavenly court and awe and that the angels are the ones who were created in distinction to the preeminence of Christ (Psalm 104:4). Scepter of your kingdom. Quoted from Psalm 45:6-7, this meant to affirm the deity and immutability of Christ, and refers that God is God, there is One; yet, Christ and God are distinct in Person. One God, three manifestations. This also means God's blessings were upon Christ to counter Jewish opposition to Christianity (Isa. 9:6; John 1:1). Loved righteousness. As Christ the Creator submitted to the Father in His incarnation (becoming Fully God and Fully Human) to become and serve humanity, this was His ultimate triumph. He is Holy and as the 'incarnate Son,' remained loyal and obedient to His own precepts and the challenge of sin and worldliness (Heb. 1:2; 3:1-2; 4:15; 5:7-8; 7:26; 9:14). Companions/fellows means sharing and partaking in as a partner (substantive). This also signified the joy and blessings we have as Christians in Christ (Heb. 3:1, 14; 12:8, 28). In the beginning, O Lord refers that the Son is addressed as Yahweh, meaning the 'Ultimate Supreme Being.' (Gen. 2:4; Deut. 6:4-5; Dan. 9:14, Psalm 11:7, Lev. 19:2; Hab. 1:12) You remain. Christ as God is 'immutable,' meaning His nature is unchanging; He is eternal'-he has no beginning or ending. Thus, He reigns forever. And through Him, we are saved and receive the inheritance, as the redeemed and as believers, of His priesthood to serve. This also refers to the faithfulness of Christ as the High Priest paying and atoning for our sins (Psalm 102: 25-27; Heb. 7:3, 23-24; 10:34; 12:27-28; 13:14). Sit at my right hand refers to the heavenly, eternal authority of and Lordship of Christ and His right to decree and rule and to save. In contrast, the angels are merely messengers with no authority other than what is given to them by God (Psalm 102: 25-27; 110:1; Heb. 5:6, 10; 6:20; 7:3, 11, 17, 21; 8:1; 10:12-13; 12:2). Inherit salvation. Means we receive His work of redemption and regeneration through grace, and we belong to Christ. We even share in the Son's rights as well as blessings we receive as the children of God. This also means we have victory as He delivers us and tramples our enemies; our future inheritance is insured. What we earn is placed as our eternal reward. God even favors humanity over the angels (Psalm 3:2, 8; 18:2; 35:3; 71:15; 132:16; Rom. 8:17, 29; Heb.2:10; 6:12). Devotional Thoughts and Applications: Jesus is described as the Immutable, Eternal, Most Holy, and Supreme God. This implies several questions to us: one is who is Jesus to you? What have you done with this knowledge? Do you see, feel and know His Divine Fullness? Do you realize that through Christ we have everything that is important and effectual for eternity? We know who we are, what we can do, what we will be, and why we are so fueled to keep going through the joys and trials of life. Through Christ, we can commune with the Father; we have a life worth having so it is worth living and a purpose that will resound throughout eternity! The key to taking hold of this is to know Christ, and understand who He is and what He has done. When we chase our speculations and fantasies through misguided and faulty desires or wants, we miss out on Him and change the truth for a lie that can do nothing for us. Whether it is worshiping angels or listening to false prophets, ignoring our call or being disobedient to His precepts, we are the ones who lose out. But, when we seek Him first, we mature; when we walk by faith, we grow and nothing important will take His Truth. Put on Christ and take off your old rags; see His wonder; allow Him to thread His truth in and through you into a masterful cloak of honor and glory. Be made in Him and for Him and go forth to serve Him! The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study): 1. What does this passage say? 2. What does this passage mean? 3. What is God telling me? 4. How am I encouraged and strengthened? 5. Is there sin in my life for which confession and repentance is needed? 6. How can I be changed, so I can learn and grow? 7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God? 8. How does this apply to me? What will I do about it? 9. What can I model and teach? 10. What does God want me to share with someone? Additional Questions: What traits do you have in common with your parents? Or, what traits do your kids have in common with you? How does that make you feel? How is this passage like a portrait of Jesus? Why do you suppose there are so many quotes from the O.T.? What is a healthy, biblical view of angels? Why would people want to believe that angels are so much more than what they actually are? In contrast, why would some people dismiss angels altogether? How would you describe the role and purpose of our Lord in this passage? Because Jesus Christ is greater than everything, I am impacted (how)'? How would you describe the relationship of the Son to the Father? How does His unchanging nature affect your attitudes and views of life? Angels are important and valuable; how should we view and respond to them? How does it help your faith knowing that God will send them when you are in need and you may never know about it? How does knowing more about Jesus and what He does for us help us know who we are, what we can do, and what we will be? Why? When did Jesus become more than just a name or religious figure to you? What took place? What does it take for this to happen in others' lives as well? What can you and your church do to spur this on more? What does it take for you to be more fueled up in Him and keep going through the joys and trials of life? What is the key to taking hold of knowing more about Christ and understanding who He is and what He has done? How can this help you attain more of the joy and blessings we have as Christians in Christ? © 2007 R. J. Krejcir Ph.D. Into Thy Word Ministries http://www.intothyword.com Statistics : Posted by richardk • on Sat Nov 14, 2009 2:59 pm • Replies 0 • Views 152 Author: info@intothyword.com (richardk) Item Category: IntoThyWord Online Studies

IntoThyWord Online Studies | Hebrews 1:1-4 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 22:03:38 -0400 Jesus is Supreme! General idea: God's best is saved for last; His spoken Word is through His Son to us. This passage brings an important theme that God works and wants to speak to us. He is fully God, one with the Father, and He is most far greater to all! Jesus Christ is Excelsior par excellence LORD, the surpassing greatness of all that is or ever will be! Who is Jesus to you? How does this hold up to who He is in reality as revealed in the Scriptures? Is Jesus the central figure in your life as He is the central figure in the entire universe? Jesus is the Ultimate, He is God's Son, He is the Heir of all things, and He is Supreme! It is imperative we know who Jesus is in our last days, as He is the One, the Promise, and our Savior. Jesus created the world and holds all things together, whose imprint is in all things and radiates God's Glory, presence, and Awe. He sits at God's right hand and controls the universe. He is also the One spoken of by the prophets, who came to save and take away our sins. Jesus is Supreme and even superior to any created thing, including angels. Contexts: The Epistle of Hebrews introduces two major themes; one is the divinity of Christ. He is supreme over all'-over traditions, Law, and all that was created, including angels. He is the Ultimate Word of God! Jesus is the heir of all things. He is incarnate, He made the universe, and He is the radiance of God's glory and sustains all things. In so doing, He is able to give us redemption and purify us from our sins (Mark 16:19; Eph 1:20; Col 1:15-20; 3:1; 1 Pet. 3:22). This passage also introduces a second major theme; God is the One who speaks (Heb. 2:2-3; 4:12; 6:5; 11:3; 12:25). He is a God of promise and fact, He has an inheritance and an Inheritor and a role for us. The audience was a Church that was confused about the role of Christ and angels and which was superior. They tried to compromise His status to appease pagans and Jews. This passage is in a classic, formal Jewish style similar to the opening of 'Ecclesiasticus, 'a popular apocrypha Jewish wisdom book (deuterocanonical) written in a high language style. Commentary, Word and Phrase Meanings: In the past/long ago God spoke. God speaks to His Son and to His people through His Son, here referring to the 'prophetic revelations' such as Moses and Isaiah where His voice was heard and written down for us to hear too. As great as this was, it was incomplete and waiting for a culmination and fruition; now through Christ, His revelation is clear and complete (Acts 2:17; 1 Tim. 4:1; Heb. 10:1; 13:20; 1 John 2:18). At many times and in various/many ways. God is the 'ultimate author' and uses many ways and means of communicating such as visions, direct speaking, angels, dreams, and people to bring His message of hope and salvation as well as His precepts through the periods of time called 'Covenants.' The Old Testament was incomplete and sporadic, lacking fullness and finality. At the same time, God carefully and progressively gave humanity, piece by piece, His instructions, revelations, and precepts which they could comprehend, and culminated with Christ. This does not mean God has evolved or changed (Num. 12:6-8; Heb. 3:5). Last days/latter days are the time period or covenant, which marks the coming of the Son and refers to Christ's redemptive work. It is last because all the previous time periods such as Creation and Mosaic Law are in the past, yet their precepts and imprints still echo and apply. Thus, this is the 'last period' of God's work and His speaking to humanity. This is also referring to the sudden nature of the Christian era. Again, a lot of Christians get this wrong; it is not necessarily a time reference (James 5:3, 1 Pet. 4: 7; 2 Pet. 3:3; Rev. 22:10). This does not mean days, as in the days of a week, or how much time until the second coming. Rather, it is all about Christ, who He is and how He comes about (Deut. 4:30-32; 8:16; Isa. 2:2; Jer. 23:20; Ezek. 38:16; Hos. 3:5; Joel 2:28; Micah 4:1; 1 Cor. 10:11). By his Son. Literally, 'in a Son,' or the personal revelation and coming of Christ, echoing the prophecies, types, echoes, and shadows of the Old Testament coming to fruition with Christ. This sets up the argument of the centrality and supremacy of Christ as His Word sits over God's house, meaning He is the final revelation. The point is this; anything that comes from Him is far greater and binding than any prescient or tradition (Col. 1:15-20; Heb. 3:6). Heir of all things. Christ is preeminent and holds all authority over all of creation. As Christ is heir, we are adopted as His heirs, receiving His work and grace and blessings (Psalm 110:1; Matt. 14:33; Mark 16:19; Luke 22:69; John 1:1-3; Rom. 8:14-17; Gal. 4:6-7; Eph. 1:21; Phil. 2:9; 1 Pet. 1:20). He made the universe/world. Meaning 'all ages,' or all that exists, as Christ's supremacy predates time and history. He is the Eternal Creator; He has always been and always will be, in contrast to the universe which was created. Christ is displayed throughout the universe. However, the universe is not God; that would be pantheism (Psalm. 33:6; 102: 25-27; Prov. 8:30; Rom. 1:18-20; Heb. 11:3). Radiance/brightness of God's glory. The glory of our Lord is His genuine Holiness. This word actually means the 'effulgence' (shine forth) of 'divine wisdom.' For a Jew, this meant only God or the exact image of God. Here Jesus' being is 'imprinted,' meaning incarnate, personified, and displayed, which is an attribute of God alone. In context and in application, this means Christ can and will redeem us (John 1:14, 18). Exact representation of his being/nature/person. This is a clear aspect of the Trinitarian aspect of God. It means the Son has 'oneness' and exact essence with God the Father; they are one Being, yet distinct in 'person,' each revealing the other. This also referred to the 'engraving' stamp of Caesar on a coin that represented his honor, power, and authority (John 14:9; 2 Cor. 4:4-6; Col. 1:15; Heb. 1:13). Sustaining all things/upholds the universe. Christ is the One who not only made the universe, He holds it all together. Many Jews at this time believed that angels had a role in creation. This is also a contrast to the Greek god Atlas, who held the world on his shoulders. The Holy Grail in physics is the 'unified field theory,' a formula that states how all disciplines of physics and physical law, all forces in nature from particles to galaxies and space time, are unified in a mathematical formula. Here is the answer (Col. 1:17; Heb. 12:26-28; 2 Pet. 3:4-7). His powerful word refers to the unshakable and immutable command of God: Jesus Christ is LORD over ALL! Purification for sins is what Jesus does for you and me. He atones'-He pays the price of God's wrath so we can be saved and be in His presence. This was a role of a Jewish priest; now, He is our High Priest (Heb. 9:14). He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty refers to Christ's Majesty as He is 'enthroned' with God and has full Kingship and ultimate superiority. He is not a copy, an imitator, a mere son, or a part or aspect of God; Jesus is fully God. Then He sat down, or became one of us, to identify with us and take our place for the punishment of our sins through His work and sacrifice on the cross (Psalm 110:1; Heb. 1:13; 10:11-12). Superior to the angels means Christ is greater than any role of Israel, the priesthood, traditions, Prophets, or Law. This phrase also sets up the argument for the following passage using various verses from the Old Testament, proving Christ's coming and His Supremacy (Heb. 2:5-18). Inherited refers to Jesus being our Rescuer and Redeemer; He took on our human nature but without our sinfulness, and remained pure to pay our dept for our sins. In the process, His human nature voluntarily became lower than the angels, but as Fully God He is superior to them in essence, power, propose, and distinction (Rom. 1:4; Heb. 2: 7, 14-15). Devotional Thoughts and Applications: Do you know people who are grumpy, stale, fruitless, and self-driven so all that comes from them is anger and bitterness? If they claim Christ as Lord, there is perhaps a 'disconnect' between their faith, life, and hearing and the applying of God's voice. Because God speaks to us, we have a responsibility to hear His Voice through His Word and apply what He says. His Son, Jesus, is our Lord and our example; His supremacy should remain in us as it does throughout time and the eternity of space. No matter whom you are or what you go through, Jesus Christ is Lord and is speaking to you! Look at some of the attributes of Christ in this passage. He is supreme to all, created all things, is incarnate, He made you, and He is the radiance of God's glory who sustains all things. Now, look what He has done for you: gave you redemption and purification from sin. What have you done with these things? Jesus must echo throughout our nature and being, so we are full of Him and not full of our selves or the ways of the world. This will greatly impact our lives, our church, and our temperament. The more we learn of Christ, the more we can listen to Him and the more we can grow in Him. But, it takes the surrender of our being to His Ultimate Being; we must hear him so His presence is practiced and applied to our daily journey in life. This is what grows our faith, takes us through the stress and torments of life, and encourages and inspires others around us. The problem comes when we tend to only have ears for our circumstances, experiences, desires, and plans, intentionally or unintentionally muting His voice and seeking to compromise our Lord's sovereignty over our personal lives. Remember; what He has for us is far greater and effectual than what we may have or have seen (Ezek. 1:28; 2:1; Phil. 3:1-14). The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study): 1. What does this passage say? 2. What does this passage mean? 3. What is God telling me? 4. How am I encouraged and strengthened? 5. Is there sin in my life for which confession and repentance is needed? 6. How can I be changed, so I can learn and grow? 7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God? 8. How does this apply to me? What will I do about it? 9. What can I model and teach? 10. What does God want me to share with someone? Additional Questions: How does that make you feel? Have you ever inherited anything of significance? If so, how did you feel? Who is Jesus to you? How does this hold up to who He is in reality as revealed in the Scriptures? How is Jesus more than just a name or a set of attributes? Is Jesus the central figure in your life as He is the central figure in the entire universe? What gets in the way of this being felt and applied in your life? What does it mean to you that Jesus is Excelsior par excellence? How would you rephrase that to make it more personal for you? How do you display in your life that Jesus is Supreme and the Ultimate? Why is it imperative that we know who Jesus is? What happens when we get lazy in our learning about Him? How does this affect your personal life and your church? Because our LORD is the surpassing greatness of all that ever is or will be, I feel''? I will''? This will do what for me? How do you feel that Jesus' imprint is in all things and radiates God's Glory? What can you do to be more aware of His presence and Awe? How can this build your faith? Jesus is Supreme and even superior to any created thing, so why do we put so many things in front of Him in our Christian walk? What does it mean to you that God is more than a promise and fact, but that He also speaks? Why do you suppose these early Christians perhaps compromised Christ's status to appease people? How do some Christians do this today? What can you do to make sure you do not do this? How can a weak or liberal church be convinced of the reality and veracity of Christ's centrality and supremacy? What can you do to make sure Jesus Christ is LORD to you? What can you do to allow His Radiance to echo throughout your mind and will, so you are full of Him and not full to your self or the ways of the world? © 2007 R. J. Krejcir Ph.D. Into Thy Word Ministries http://www.intothyword.org Statistics : Posted by richardk • on Sat Nov 07, 2009 11:03 pm • Replies 0 • Views 276 Author: info@intothyword.com (richardk) Item Category: IntoThyWord Online Studies

IntoThyWord Online Studies | Re: James 1:1-4 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 21:52:44 -0400 Thank-you for your kind words, You may do either, post answers and thoughts to this site or use as a devotional or tools for your teaching. The prime purpose is for your spiritual growth and Christian education and a source to use for your research too, Be blessed! Richard Num 6:24 Statistics : Posted by richardk • on Sat Nov 07, 2009 10:52 pm • Replies 2 • Views 2250 Author: info@intothyword.com (richardk) Item Category: IntoThyWord Online Studies

IntoThyWord Online Studies | 2 Peter 3: 14-18 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 17:48:16 -0400 The Exhortation to Remain In Christ General idea: We are to wait, but we are not to be idle while we wait. We are to be involved and make every effort to know Him and make Him known. Consequently, we are to remain firm in our faith regardless of when He comes back. We do this actively with the contribution of our trust and assurance in Christ, making the most of what He has given us in His call, precepts, and opportunities. This means being pure and blameless in our obedience to and trust in Christ and being humble, the opposites of the character of the false teachers. Peter is communicating to us that God is involved, that He does indeed care, and that He is concerned and does intervene in history, thus we can trust Him. If people come against your belief in Christ and good character, take comfort. No matter what others say or do, God will intervene in His time, and make them the ultimate fools. Peter continues to tell us to beware of scoffers who deny Christ's return! We often need to be reminded of this, no matter how long we have been in the Lord. We need that gentle refreshing to stimulate us into correct thinking so we can have the faith and strength to stay on His path. We are to know the Scriptures and be disciplined in the faith because this is what keeps our minds on Him, and when we practice these precepts, they become rooted and make us firmer in our faith. Vs. 14-16: Peter is closing his Epistle with encouragements and blessings. He is reminding his people of the importance of Paul's letter(s) to them and that they are to take what he says seriously. He also warns that if they do not understand something, they are not to twist it to fit what they do understand or want. Doing that only disrupts His Truth with our whims, resulting in disaster for all who do this heinous act. " Make every effort means for us to serve Christ with lives of holiness, being devoted to the worship and service of Him. This also means to be diligent in looking forward to Christ's Second Coming (Matt. 25:13; 1 Thess. 5:6, 8, 11; 2 Pet. 1:13-16). " Spotless' blameless means to be at peace with him. This means that as Christians, we can have peace with God as a result of being justified by faith. By the same token, we can still sin, disappoint, and displease God even though we are saved. He calls us to live according to His requirements, and if we refuse, we need to take heed. Our salvation is secure but we are still accountable for our actions for we will receive commendation and rewards when He returns (Rom. 5:1; 1 Cor. 3:10-15; 2 Cor. 5:10; 1 Pet. 1:19). " Patience means salvation. This reference indicates that instead of whining, complaining, and theorizing about when He will return, we should trust in God's timing and providence. It is because of God's patience that He has the will to save us, for we tempt His patience all of the time (Gen. 6). We are just in God's sight; we are just because He declares us so! " Wisdom. Peter is stating the case; these are not his words but His words, because Paul's letters were inspired by God (Eph. 3:2-5; 1 Cor. 2:12; Gal. 1:1). " Hard to understand was not necessarily a demeaning statement, rather one of respect as meaning inspired and complex. In such matters, it is important we remain diligent to persevere in searching for better understanding. If we allow our emotions and first impressions to stop us, we will miss out on a lot that God has for us. " Ignorant and unstable people. Ignorant refers to people who are not educated or refuse to learn and grow, such as Christians who have not been discipled and do not know the precepts of Jesus. Unstable refers to those who manipulate, perhaps are mentally ill or just scheming, whose thinking is twisted, and who seek to lead others away from sound teachings and God's Word. " Distort/twist refers to misrepresenting and manipulating something so to make it what it is not. This is done by deliberately making a declaration of what it means when it really says otherwise-just to fit a personal or group agenda. This can also arise when we misinterpret God's Word from a lack of research and study, catering to a particular viewpoint without considering the merits of it, or being sloppy in our exegesis. The people in Peter's day were allegorizing (seeing the text as abstract thoughts for deliberation but not for application) Paul's words, and other Scriptures, muting the value and application of it. Today, we would call this liberalism. " Other Scriptures refers to Paul's Epistles, possibly a copy of Romans, which was a circular letter to many churches, and/or possibly an early Gospel and that they are God's inspired, authoritative Word. This passage also testifies to Peter's acceptance of Paul's Apostleship, a testimony of unity in teaching and purpose (Rom. 1:1, 21; 16:4; 1 Thess. 2:13; 2 Tim. 3:16; 1 Pet. 1:1). What we go through, even suffering, has meaning and purpose to it. We can remain spotless, as Jesus showed us by His words and His example. When something happens which you do not understand, seek answers in prayer, asking God what you are to learn. This is how we can better grow in the grace and love of our Lord. Then, your faith-development and steadfastness will be far more impacting and real for you and those around you. Vs. 17-18: Peter's Benediction. He calls us to be on our guard by pursuing our relationship with Christ, allowing our bonds to grow and become stronger so no reproach can come against our church. " Lawless men refers to the false teachers who have ignored God or have no regard for truth or morality. Do not be led away by errors or personal desires! " Fall/lose'stability means to fall away from Truth, which includes God's percepts, call, and standards. This does not mean we lose our salvation. Rather, it refers to our weakness (John 6:37-40; 10:28-29; 17:2-24; Phil. 1:6; 1 Cor. 1:8; 9:1; 1 Thess. 5:23-24; 2 Thess. 3:32; 2 Tim. 1:12; 4:18). We are to be firm in our faith and not allow our desires or others to distract us from Christ. This reinforces the importance of sound doctrine and teaching (John 6:39; Phil. 1:6). " Grow means to be steadfast in faith and in Christ. We do this by pursuing holy living through deepening our relationship and experiences with Christ. We are called to learn as much as we can about our Lord and His teaching and then apply it wholeheartedly into our lives. This is in contrast to the arrogance and pretentious knowledge and pseudo-growth of the false teachers and hypocrites who know little and apply none. Growing is an ongoing experience that should never stop until we are called home to heaven. It is not enough to know; we are also called to do. In conjunction, our persistence to know Him and His Word prevents false teachers from getting a hold on us or our church (2 Pet. 1:2-3)! " Knowledge. The antidote to heresy is knowing the real truth, and we do this by going to God's Word. We are called to pursue education and practice knowledge so we can learn and know more about God, live for His glory, and help one another. " To him be glory means that because of the deity and supremacy of Christ as God and Lord, all that we do in our Christian lives is to be about glorifying Him. This ties into Peter's opening statement in 1:1 (Col. 1:15-20; Rev. 1:5-6). " Forever means 'unto eternity.' Time is endless and glory, through all time past, present, and future belongs to Christ alone (Isa. 60:19-20). In Acts 13, the Church in Antioch was in a dilemma about who to send to the mission fields�to parts unknown and unclear. There were many gifted and qualified teachers to choose from, so they inquired of God who to send out. In their considerations, what was not pursued is as important as what was. They chose to send Paul and Barnabas. Their decision was authentically sought, as God was adored through worshiping, fasting, and prayer. This is 'mission critical' for us to recognize the real work of the Holy Spirit. The results were from the Spirit's initiative and not from a planning or strategy session. The lesson for us today is that when leaders and churches worship God and not trends, God moves(1 Tim. 4:1-8, 14)! We are still called to plan, but God is to be first and foremost in our sights, and that starts with our humility (Col. 1:18; 1 Peter 5). Humility was not a virtue in the pagan world of Peter's day, just like it is not a virtue today. Humble people today get mocked and trampled by the media and society. They're called wimps by the world. This is the day of the macho, rugged individual who does not need anyone, and who steps on anyone who gets in the way. Humility was no virtue. Humility was for the weak and cowardly. Humility is what Christ wore as an apron of a servant to show how He came to serve (John 13:2-17). Our apron will keep our ministry, one another, and us clean, so put on the one-size-fits-all garment of humble service. Put on the apron of the slave. We should all be slaves in Christ if we are to be mature in Christ. We are called to tie humility on ourselves with a knot or a bow as a covering, so that it is tight and will not fall off�an attitude that we are not too good to serve others! So, clothe yourselves with an attitude that you are lowly, an attitude that you are not too good to serve, that you are not too great to stoop down to help another. And, by the way, this was the only humility the pagan world tolerated the involuntary humility of slavery. Therefore, Peter is saying you need to put on the garment of a slave and take on a voluntary humility, a subordinate mentality "first toward one another." With this essential attitude, we will be glorifying Him to keep our faith growing and in Him, thus preparing our church for now and our selves for His return. God has given us a great promise to keep us in the faith: He is here and He is returning. Thus, we need to live our lives worthy in Him and not forget who and what He is and has done. If we have no accountability because we believe there is not anyone to whom we are accountable, we will engage in doing what we want; and that is sin. Many people in Peter's time (as well as ours) did not believe there would be a judgment and therefore there were no personal responsibilities or obligations. This thinking produces relativism and our postmodern mindsets (nothing new here), and leads to immoral behaviors and a society in distress headed for ruin. Such thinking says we can do as we please; however, that will only bring us damnation at worst and missed opportunities at best. Why would we want to play these games? Disgrace and shame take place when we only fear and honor one another; scruples and character come from when we fear and honor God (Prov. 3:5). The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study): 1. What does this passage say? 2. What does this passage mean? 3. What is God telling me? 4. How am I encouraged and strengthened? 5. Is there sin in my life for which confession and repentance is needed? 6. How can I be changed, so I can learn and grow? 7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God? 8. How does this apply to me? What will I do about it? 9. What can I model and teach? 10. What does God want me to share with someone? Additional Questions: 1. What are you hopeful for or looking forward to? What does it mean to live worthy in Christ? 2. How does it make you feel knowing that God is involved and that He indeed does intervene and care for you? How can this help you trust in Christ more? What would your life look like with this working more effectively? 3. Why is it important to have a basis upon which to build a morality? 4. How do you tempt God's patience? What does it mean to your faith that God is patient with you more than you can fathom? That He saves you even though you tempt His patience all of the time? 5. Peter asked, what kind of people you ought to be; how would you respond to God saying this (by the way, He does)? 6. Growing is an ongoing experience that should never stop. Why is this true? Why would a Christian think otherwise? 7. How can you balance being curious with being hopeful so you do not diverge into obsession, impatience, or sensationalism regarding Christ's Second Coming? 8. What does it mean to you to make the most of your life here and now? What would your life look like if you did? 9. What can you do now so your Christian life will be more about glorifying Him? How can this combat liberalism and false teachers? 10. When something happens which you do not understand, what can you do to grow from it? How about seeking the reason in prayer, asking God what you are to learn from it? How would this help you grow further and firmer in the faith? 11. What does it mean to be established in your faith? What can you do to keep your mind in Christ? 12. How can you make the most of what Christ has given? When will you do this? Now, how would you respond to make every effort? What are you going to do about becoming better in your faith in response to these questions from our Lord? © 2005 R. J. Krejcir Ph.D. Into Thy Word Ministries http://www.intothyword.org Statistics : Posted by richardk • on Sat Oct 24, 2009 5:48 pm • Replies 0 • Views 489 Author: info@intothyword.com (richardk) Item Category: IntoThyWord Online Studies

IntoThyWord Online Studies | 2 Peter 3: 10-13 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 17:38:51 -0400 Christ will Certainty Return - Unexpectedly! General idea: Peter, in graphic imagery and hopefulness, is making a strong argument that Christ will return and when He does, it will be un-expected with un-surpassing wonders the world has never seen. This is the climax of the Kingdom of God, the time when it comes into its fulfillment and fruition. The earth and all we know and see will be destroyed and re-formed as a new earth and a new life. There will be a judgment from which nothing will be exempt. Because all will be judged and destroyed (or renewed), we must make the most of our lives here and now, not wait for a future that may not come, or bask in the past. We must live for Christ with the hope and purpose He gives us with power, passion, and conviction. The promise of His Second Coming is to give us hope and confidence. We live in a sin-infested world now, but the one to come will be perfect, as all in it will be right with God. We look forward to His Second Coming and the fruition of his Kingdom. But, beware of sitting and doing nothing; we will delay His work and impede the preparation of His Kingdom. Our participation helps His coming, as we help build His Kingdom now. This passage is very figurative. The purpose of figurative or apocalyptic language is to describe the indescribable. Peter attempts to help us understand these events and the importance of our being ready (Matt. 24: 36 through chapter 25). This is about being hopeful for the future, but living and being viable for the present. We can take comfort in the fact that Jesus is coming back. This time it will not be a subtle event, as a baby born in a feed trough in a cave. Rather, the entire creation will glow and bend to show the whole world His glory. This passage gives hope to a persecuted church, hope to people in despair, and hope that He is indeed in charge, even when we cannot see it! Vs. 10: These early Christians were being discouraged by the persecutions and seemingly insurmountable sufferings and loss. The comfort of Jesus' retuning was like cool water for a person dying of thirst on a hot day. Consequently, false teachers were taking advantage of them. These so-called Christians, who were making apocalyptic predictions, had bad motivations. They operated just like Satan, seeking to disrupt, seduce, and carry people away from Christ and to their way. If you are not sure who they are, watch their character and Fruit, which will show their true nature (Jer. 23:13; Micah 3:5; Matt. 7:15; Acts 20:28-30; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Eph. 4:14; Phil. 3:2; 2 Tim. 3:4-6; Titus 1:11,12; 2 Peter 2:18,19). " Day of the Lord means the Lord's final Day of Judgment where He settles all accounts and injustices. It is a synonym for the Second Coming and refers to the anticipated eschatological climax of events. Victory over darkness and sin will be achieved after God intervenes in the world with judgment and destruction to His enemies, and rewards and blessings to those who are in Him. Although this Day started with the resurrection of Christ and His victory over sin and the coming of the Spirit, it comes to its consummation and fullness after Christ's Second Coming and Judgment (Isa. 2:11-20; 13:9-13; Joel 1:15; 3:14-21; Amos 5:18-20; 1 Thess. 2:1-3; 5:2). " Like a thief in the night, a quote from Jesus Himself, is a vivid image of anticipated End Times, and literally means to 'break in,' as to dig into the clay and brick sides to get inside the home. Here, it is a metaphor, and does not refer to a literal thief who would rob us, but that Christ's coming will not be predicted or expected. It will be a surprise and a shock. This could only happen if the people were not there, as in not ready. Do not be ignorant of His promise (Ex. 22:2-3; Matt. 24:43; Luke 12:39-40)! " The Heavens'disappear' with a roar refers to an Old Testament image of purification and renewal (Isa. 34:4; 64:1-4; Matt. 24:29-31). " Elements/heavenly bodies refer to the building blocks of the universe. It is interesting that the Greeks theorized about molecules centuries before science discovered them. The basic elements in ancient times usually refer to earth, air, fire, and/or water. This term also refers to all that is in the universe such as celestial beings, planets, and stars. Here, it is most likely referring to the heavenly bodies. Peter's point is that everything will be destroyed (some believe transformed or rebooted). (Isa. 34:4) " Earth and everything' possibly refers to God's judgment, that He will remove all evil and iniquity, and all of humanity's works will be held in account. " Laid bare/ burned up/exposed means to be found out or found, and refers to the judgment that is coming. The earth will undergo a climatic destruction or reformation. This could also mean that the earth will be destroyed and made new (1 Cor. 3:13-15). Also, it could mean being aware of our own motives�why we do what we do. Is it to please our curiosity or manipulate others to see our way of thinking, regardless of revealed biblical truth? The main point of this passage is to tell us not to be discouraged, but to remain faithful and vigilant. We are to live our lives preparing and planning as if Christ would be coming tomorrow or if He were coming a thousand years from now. We are not to be preoccupied with the details and trivialities. That is why Jesus did not give them to us. Rather, our faith development and steadfastness are far more impacting and real on others around us (Matt. 24)! Vs. 11-13: God's call for us is to be confident and exuberant that He is in control and things will work out. He does not want us forsaking our duty as Christians in the world here and now by using our energies in nonsocial and nonsensical ways, trying to predict the future and arguing our views of it. If you really think this through, it is like focusing on your favorite junk food and arguing why it is good while forsaking healthy food that is good for you and helps you to grow and thrive. " Since everything refers to what should I do now. This is also a call�a call to keep you from being spiritually or emotionally defeated when tough times come. We are to always see our Lord, not our situation (John 10:28-29; Rom. 8:31-39). This is an aspect of the character of faithfulness, as it will help you persevere under stress and chaos. Christ is the One who keeps us secure, not our environment! " What kind of People you ought to be means to watch our motives and behaviors, making sure they are lined up to Christ and not with what is false and pretentious. We are to conduct ourselves with good ethics, honor, and godliness. What we do as a Christian is in response to what Christ has done in us. Works are not for our salvation; they result from our gratitude for the salvation that was freely given to us. Thus, what we should be thinking, as committed Christians, is how do we now live for Him and His glory, not how do we live for our desires and needs. He has given us everything in abundance and in love. This is not a time to be impatient; it is a time to grow and do more in Him and for Him (Heb. 13:9). " You ought'live holy and godly/lives of holiness refers to not letting suffering overtake us or move us from His Way. Suffering is a part of life; it will happen. We have to learn to cope, seek Him, and prepare so we can help others and ourselves through it (see our article on 'Suffering'). We are called to not be discouraged when bad things, troubles, disasters, and tribulations happen in the world (2 Chron. 15:6; Isa. 13:8; 19:2; Jer. 51:46; Hosea 13:13). We live in a fallen world where sin has corrupted everything and everyone, so disasters will come. We are called to prepare, plan ahead, and look to Christ as the Deliverer. He is in control! " The day of God. This is slightly different than the 'Day of the Lord' and refers to 'The Coming One,' as no one else but God Himself. Both terms are interchangeable, meaning great signs will take place, and He is seeking us for our salvation as well as for our spiritual growth. (Rev. 16:14)! " Speed its coming/eagerly waiting/hasting means to hasten on as we desire for Him to come back now. But, we cannot change God's mind or speed things up. His timing is deemed and decreed by God's providence and by God alone (Eph. 1:11). Peter uses this term so we will not diverge into sensationalism, emotionalism, or fatalism, but can see it from God's view and trust in His timing. Contemporary Jewish thought was divided on whether we participate in God's intervention. Some rabbis taught we do hasten it by our repentance, piety, and good deeds, while others said it was fixed and we have no sway over God. The debate continues today amongst Christians. Many Christians feel we hasten God's timing by our missions and evangelism to all people groups (Matt. 24:14). The fact is, we have no knowledge of the factors God considers or how His providence, mercy, and patience are working out for our benefit, too. We do contribute; our actions matter. We hasten this day by our fervor, our humble and honest prayers, and our obedience to know Him and make Him known to others. These are the only contributions we make to His timing (Matt. 6:10; Mark 13:10; Luke 11:2; Acts 3:19-20; Rev. 8:3-5; 22:20). " Coming refers to when Christ will come back and gives us blessings as Christians who are faithful in Him. This is an aspect of great hope, that our righteousness does matter and it will come into fruition when He comes (Isa. 9:7; 32:16-17; 62:1-2; Jer. 32:40). " New heaven and a new earth could refer to an entire, new, created order after God destroys this one, but other passages indicate this means God reboots this one, cleanses it, and restores it as in a transfiguration process. Whatever means is used is because of His redemption that allows us to have a home of Righteousness. His righteousness will exemplify the world, not sin (Isa. 11:4-5; 45:8; 65:17-25; 66:22; Dan. 9:24; Rom. 8:21-23; 1 Cor. 15:35-57; Rev. 21:1). Peter makes the point that since everything will be destroyed and judged, we should focus ourselves on Christ. He is our Hope and reason for life and living. He will return. There is no 'if;' only 'when.' It is not theory, but fact, and it points us to a faith that is sensible and useful. Our lives need to be in pursuit of Him and His Truth and principles so we are not spending our energies in sensationalism and endless debates, but rather in knowing Him and making Him known. God calls us to be curious and hopeful with what is to come. This is to give us strength for endurance and anticipation for His work to come. But, we are not to be obsessed and impatient or slip off the path He has for us. Our focus is to be in and on Him, not on our agendas. We are to make sure we do not fall prey to sensationalism or are not carried away by those who are deceptive, manipulative, or condescending or who play to our fears, hopes, and desires. Nor, are we to fall prey to our own faulty thinking, negating the real, revealed truths. Our footing is in Christ. Let us not lose it and fall of a cliff! Our security, salvation, and lives are in Him and in Him only�all for His glory. His promise to return is the climax of our life and the beginning of life everlasting. It is our hope in the midst of our trials and sufferings as well as in the daily grind of life. He wants us to live in the contentment of His love, not in the circumstances of ours or other's notions or trepidations. The Essential Inductive Questions (for more Inductive questions see Inductive Bible Study): 1. What does this passage say? 2. What does this passage mean? 3. What is God telling me? 4. How am I encouraged and strengthened? 5. Is there sin in my life for which confession and repentance is needed? 6. How can I be changed, so I can learn and grow? 7. What is in the way of these precepts affecting me? What is in the way of my listening to God? 8. How does this apply to me? What will I do about it? 9. What can I model and teach? 10. What does God want me to share with someone? Additional Questions: 1. When you were a kid, how did you feel about waiting for a birthday or Christmas or some other big event? How is this like waiting for Christ to come back? 2. How is seeking sensationalism like focusing on your favorite junk food and arguing why it is good? How do you feel physically when you forsake healthy food that is good for you to grow and thrive? How is this like forsaking good Bible teaching? 3. What do you think is the purpose of figurative or apocalyptic language? How do you feel about it? How has it brought you fear? What about hope? 4. The earth and all we know and see will either be destroyed or re-formed into a new earth and a new life. How does this make you feel? How does this give you hope? 5. Do you believe that when Christ comes, it will not be predicted or expected, perhaps even be a surprise and a shock? How, and why? 6. How can the Second Coming give you hope and confidence? How does this passage give hope to a persecuted church? 7. What do you think discourages hopeful Christians? What can be done to inspire someone who is discouraged to remain faithful and vigilant? 8. What preparation and participation do you think we are to do? What happens when people do nothing with their faith and just wait for a future that may not come? 9. What does it mean that we are to live our lives as if Christ would be coming tomorrow and also preparing and planning as if He were coming a thousand years from now? Is this a contradiction, or a plan to do? 10. Why do you suppose that Jesus did not give us the details of His second coming? What would have happened if He had? 11. Can you think of a specific area in your life that could use more hope? What does it mean for you to be confident and exuberant? What can you do to be more confident and exuberant? 12. From this passage, what do you understand God's call to be for you? What can your church do to discipline and/or warn people who make apocalyptic predictions or have bad motivations for their teaching? © 2005 R. J. Krejcir Ph.D. Into Thy Word Ministries www.intothyword.org Statistics : Posted by richardk • on Sat Oct 24, 2009 5:38 pm • Replies 0 • Views 374 Author: info@intothyword.com (richardk) Item Category: IntoThyWord Online Studies

God Promises Christ's Return to us! General idea: Peter restates his purpose, and desires to get his people thinking about Christ, not the trends of the day, not the new philosophies, false teachers, or the scoffers. He wants them and us focused upon Christ and the precepts and hope He brings. Our thinking needs to be based on Christ, not what we want or how we think things should be. This takes trust and seeing hope. God wants us to understand that He has real, true substance for us to know and do! We have the responsibility to know this trust and hope and put both into our life and practice them. Peter then cements his reprimand by showing his people the ultimate hope we have in Christ, that our life is all about Him'-what He has done, and what He is yet to do. And, the big yet to do is His Second Coming. Yet, in the mist of our great hope there will be great distracters who seek to derail us off His tracks by seeding our fears and unbelief. If a false teacher can't get you to see a variant view of a skewed truth, they will turn and ridicule real truth. Thus, they will get you to laugh at the truth to demean it so you will not take it seriously. Scoffing puts the item being scoffed at down while it lifts up the scoffer. Pride is at the base of this, which is always the way Satan works. They will say, 'Do you really believe that? How can you take that seriously?' We are to see where their arguments come from, mainly faulty thinking and conniving agendas causing us to forget God's promises and even His past provisions. Vs. 1-4: Peter was writing about some of the same root problems, namely, those of forgetting Christ's power and impact. So, he shows them from God's Word. He has apostolic authority and is a principle church leader with the job of giving them instructions. The problem is that the depraved human mind still will refuse to listen, no matter by what means or authority the message is relayed. God's patience with and love for us is so amazing! " Second letter. The first would probably be First Peter. Peter is restating his purpose by reminding them of some essential precepts from our Lord he stated in his last letter (1 Pet. 1:13-2:12). " Dear friends means "loved ones" (1 Pet. 2:11; 4:12). Peter wants us to know for certain that Christ will return! " Stimulate you/stir you up. Peter is seeking to help them remember who they are in Christ and the wonders of Him, not the lusts and desires of the flesh. God wants us to live lives that are worthy of being given grace and to show excellence in our character for His glory, and our contentment in Him. " Wholesome thinking means to have a pure mind, undefiled by the filth of false teachers so we can be better prepared (Matt. 24:42-44; Rom. 12:1-3). " Prophets' apostles. Peter is now identifying the Old Testament prophets with the New Testament Apostles as of equal authority. Both are specially called and used by God to spread His truth. However, this does not apply to us today! What does apply is that whoever is in Christ is now a representative of Christ and has responsibility and His authority to spread His knowledge (2 Cor. 5:20). " First of all. This means "above all," as to call attention to an important issue. The issue is, there will be a judgment! " Last days/last times means the 'Christian era.' It does not necessarily refer that the actual, final days of our existence, as in the second coming, are around the corner. Rather, it means the period from the resurrection to His second coming. In other words, the present time. Many have mistaken this term to mean that Jesus is right around the corner. Maybe He is, but for countless generations who have said that, well, they have been wrong and have missed the point (Acts 2:17; Heb. 1:2). " Scoffers ridicule and make fun of what you do not comprehend or understand. Such behavior only makes the person who scoffs the fool. The Gnostics did not believe in the idea of a judgment because they did not believe in moral accountability. Each one needs the other for either to work. Here, the false teachers were ridiculing the idea that Christ would return, since He had not yet. Also, in Jewish tradition at the time, to ridicule a righteous person was considered evil. They also argued that God neither cares for us nor intervenes in our lives and we should not trust in Him. Just because something has not happened does not mean it will not happen. Many lives, businesses, and opportunities have been destroyed by this feeble way of thinking. " Evil desires. Not being rooted in good thinking will create evil stemming from a lack of accountability or a basis for a morality to be built upon. " Coming' He promised/promise of His coming. Some people in the Early Church thought Jesus was coming right back and thus were teaching that as fact, and the false teachers used their impatience and misunderstandings of what Jesus taught against them. Thus, the false teachers were spreading gossip as they mocked them. Ironically, scoffing is one of the evidences that we are in the last days. We must be careful that what we believe and teach is authentic, or others will use our own words against us and perhaps be just in doing so. " Fathers died/Ancients' fell asleep is possibly a reference to the Patriarchs who were venerated with great prestige, and have since passed on to Heaven, or the people who came before them who died, such as Steven and other church leaders or martyrs, appealing to their testimony (John 6:31; Acts 3:13; Heb. 13:7-9). Peter is calling us to think back to what the Lord has done for us, so we don't forget His grace, His provisions, and His answered prayers and blessings. We are not to be overcome with the struggles of the moment so we do not see how He has brought us through them in the past. We are to refresh our memory in Him. Vs. 5-9: God is sovereign and in control! God's mighty hand was in the environment and in humanity before the beginning of time, and continues today and on to eternity. He will judge the quick (alive) and the dead (Acts 10:42; 1 Peter 4:5; The Apostolic Creed). He made the universe; He made you for a plan and a purpose. You are no mistake; therefore, you are wanted and have a destiny. Thus, we are called to realize that and not let false teachers, scoffers, and/or connivers distract us from seeing Christ and applying His Lordship to our lives. " Deliberately forget. Forgetting or refusing to heed God's Lordship. " Formed out of water. An image of creation when the Lord separated the waters from the sky, and how He is indeed involved in creation and with us (Gen 1:1-10). " God's word/word of God refers to God's ability and authority to command, create, and be Lord. By God's word, the universe was created out of nothing. We were created and saved (Gen. 1:1-30; Psalm 33:6-9; Heb. 11:3). " World of that time means at the time of creation. It refers to history and that God is a God of involvement and action. He is not passive as the deists teach; there is no reason or need to doubt God! " Deluged and destroyed/perished means destroyed by water. God intervenes in history and in our lives. He will judge, as He demonstrated with the Flood (Gen 6-8). " By the same word means 'God's divine Word' as in His utterance that creates and commands, referring that God is 'all powerful.' He repeats the judgment of the flood and the importance of God as the One who is in control and who will judge. " Reserved for fire/stored up for fire refers to an eschatological inferno of fiery, divine judgment, and possibly refers to Sodom and Gomorrah (Deut. 32:22; Isa. 65:17; 66:15-22; Mal. 4:1; 1 Cor. 3:13; 2 Thess. 1:7-8; 2 Pet. 2:6). " A day is like a thousand years means God lives outside of space and time and is not governed by our physical or temporal laws of physics or humanity. For God, time is totally relative and in the scope of eternity. This does not necessarily refer to a literal timeline. Rather, it is a figure of speech that God's view and perspective of things is not our view and the converse thereof. This is an aspect of His sovereignty. Also, this is a quote of Psalm 90:4. " Slow in keeping/slowness. We have no knowledge of God's timing! It seems that God is slow to us, but He is in absolute control and we can have patience and trust in Him and His timing. We are impatient with our thinking and expectations, whereas God is patient, allowing His grace and plan to work out. There is no need to make up dates or predict His Second Coming. We are called to be obedient and wait actively in His Word and truth. " Patient means that our God is a long-suffering God. When God delays His judgment, this means He is demonstrating His love, grace, and forbearance for the consummation of His purpose. We are to take comfort in that He is a God of grace and mercy and is patient with us when we do not deserve it. He seeks our repentance and trust. Therefore, we have no need to be impatience or confused or allow the mocking or misleading of others to distract us from His purpose and plan (John 6:39). " Repentance. This does not mean all will be saved. But, all are loved and desire to be saved, but somewhere is our rebellion and sin and God's providence to elect us anyway. God wants us to repent! We are to repent of our indifference and lack of trust in Him (John 10:28-29). Peter is restating his purpose of being an encourager and, at the same time, is shepherding them. A shepherd protects his sheep. If the sheep run astray, he will do what it takes to keep them safe and put, even if he has to beak their legs so they will not be eaten. A pastor needs to rout out false teachers and discipline those who cause others to stumble. If not, others will fall prey to things that are misleading, count