If you knew the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do? Many people believe multiple things must happen before this ending occurs. But regardless of your interpretation of the end times, THIS final end is sure, and Peter speaks as if it could come anytime. We must come to Christ—fully and deeply—and prepare ourselves. We must live in light of the end, in holiness, godliness, peace with God and others, and blameless lives (which can only happen through our dependence upon Christ). 

There is an end to this world. It’s coming. No one knows the day or hour, but it will happen as sure as we are breathing. The Scripture is very clear about this, as was Christ Himself.

The apostle Peter describes it clearly in 2 Peter 3. He tells us what we need to know to realize it is coming and how we should prepare. So, what will happen at the end of time, and what should we do in light of its coming?

1. SCOFFERS WILL DENY IT BECAUSE IT HASN’T HAPPENED YET.

Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” (Vs. 3-4)

You may be in that group. But Peter gives the immediate rebuttal to this argument. He reminds them God created the world, God destroyed the world by water (in Noah’s day), and this world is now destined to be destroyed by fire (Verses 5-7). He (and only He) has the power to accomplish this.

God is sovereign over this world. It exists because of Him and will be destroyed by Him, just as He promised. And that destruction will be His judgment upon His enemy, Satan (who has temporary authority in this world), and all men who have rejected Him.

2. GOD’S TIMING IS PERFECT AND PATIENT

Those who deny this ending don’t understand God’s relation to time. He is withholding this judgment for a season in His mercy so that many can come to repentance.

With the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. (Vs. 8-9)

3. IT WILL COME SUDDENLY AND THE WORLD WILL BE DESTROYED WITH INTENSE HEAT

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