2 Peter 3:8-14
Chapter 3
The Lord doesn’t delay in keeping his promise, even though some say otherwise; instead, he gives you time because he doesn’t want anyone to perish but that everyone may come to repentance.
The day of the Lord will come unexpectedly, like a thief. Then the heavens will be torn apart with a loud noise; the elements will melt away with fire, and the earth, along with everything on it will be disclosed.
Since everything is destined to vanish, your way of life must be very holy and devout
as you await the day of God and long for its arrival, when the heavens will dissolve in fire, and the elements will melt with fire.
But we look forward to a new heaven and a new earth where justice will reign as God has promised.
Therefore, beloved, as you wait in anticipation for this, strive to ensure that God finds you rooted in peace, without blemish or fault.
Commentaries
Delay of the Parousia.
The primary focus of this section is the day of the coming or parousia. In the first two verses, the author emphasizes the evangelistic value of the apostolic letters. In verses 3 and following, the author warns against opponents who, with cynicism, falsehood, and debauchery, deny the coming by arguing that the world is immutable since its origins (4). The truth is that those in power are not interested in change so they can continue to dominate and manipulate communities at will. A distinction must be made between God’s time – “kairos” (cf. Ps 90:4) – and human time – “kronos.” On the other hand, the delay in time is a patient choice on God’s part, meant to allow everyone to be saved (cf. Jn 3:16-17; 1 Tim 2:4).