THE IMPACT OF HIS FUTURE ON OUR PRESENT
Text: 2 Peter 3:11-13
Series: Endgame – Becoming Future Ready

We know the endgame that is Christ’s return, so how should we conduct ourselves until it happens? Some may be obsessed with knowing when the world will end because they want to be prepared. Yet Jesus is clear that the time is unknown though He will certainly come. How then can we as believers be prepared?

Discussion Guide

1) We live in expectation of His coming (11-12)

What do you do when you’re expecting something, like a baby, promotion or good results? How is it similar to how you would prepare for Christ’s return? What does Christ’s second coming mean to you? Do you look forward to it, and why? What does our anticipation (or lack of it) for Christ’s return say about our attachment to the world? How does Christ’s return affect your desire to live holy and godly lives? When you think about holiness, what comes to mind? In the Bible, holiness means that we as God’s people are set apart for God for His purpose and to reflect His character. This includes being upright in our ethics, for God possesses superior moral qualities. How does holy living look like in our workplace, school or home, especially when the majority culture adheres to different values? How is it different from the licentious lifestyles of some who do not know God? What struggles do Christians normally face in holy living? Godly living is living in a way that acknowledges the God we worship and fulfils His expectations of His people. How can we demonstrate our devotion to God in our dealings with people, career, money etc? Why is it important to not just do the right thing but to do it out of a heart of devotion to God? How can we grow in our understanding of what God expects of us? What usually hinders Christians from godly living? In light of Christ’s return, how can the Life Group encourage one another in holy and godly living?

2) We live in hope of His promised new world (13)

We have all faced hurts and disappointment in our lives. How do we view these scars? When we face other tough times, how do we usually deal with it? Meanwhile, there are others who seem to be carefree and unaffected by troubles. Why do you think they behave this way? How do you think they view the world? Should we emulate their worldview? Why? Peter urges believers to “look forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.” How does this encourage those of us who are going through difficult times in this world? What does this tell us about hope? How is hope different from wishful thinking? By looking at the things/areas that we have invested our resources and energy in, it is easy to spot what some of us may have placed our hope in (e.g. wealth, achievements, social status etc). Take some time to consider these things and evaluate them side by side with the promised new world. Which is more permanent? Which is more secure? Why? Why can we be certain that the righteous new order will definitely come to pass? In other words, how do we know that God will keep the promise of ushering in the new world? Instead of placing our hope in things of this world, how can we place our hope in God who keeps His word? How can the Life Group spur one another on to look forward to the new world?

Reflection Questions

1) We live in expectation of His coming (11-12)

What does Christ’s second coming mean to you? Do you look forward to it, and why? How does Christ’s return affect your desire to live holy and godly lives?

2) We live in hope of His promised new world (13)

How do we know that God will keep His promise of ushering in the new world? How does this encourage those of us who are going through difficult times in this world? Instead of placing our hope in things of this world, how can we place our hope in God who keeps His word?