Endgame (2/4): The Reason For His Delay
THE REASON FOR HIS DELAY
2 Peter 3:8-10
Series: Endgame – Becoming Future Ready
Jesus will return, of this we are certain. But why does He seem to be taking so long? What is the reason for His apparent delay? What happens when the delay comes to an end?
Discussion Guide
1) The Lord delays in His mercy (8-9)
In these verses, Peter reminds the church that only those who live a life of repentance will be saved. Repentance is the complete change of mind with regard to sin and righteousness. True repentance results in sorrow over sin and transformation of lifestyle. How is this different from merely saying sorry for doing something wrong? Is repentance an once-off event or a continuous commitment? Why do you say so? When was the last time you sincerely repented? What went through your mind? Read the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-12. The prodigal son’s repentance is expressed in his recognition of his wrongdoing, and a decision to stop living a life of rebellion against his father. The son’s decision to repent is then followed by his reconciliation to his father. How would this story encourage those who struggle with sin and are feeling guilt-ridden and hopeless? Why is repentance essential in our relationship with the Father?How does God’s kindness and mercy motivate believers to repent? What happens if we take His mercy for granted?
2) The Lord will come suddenly in His justice (10)
Jesus’ return will be sudden, and we as a church needs to be prepared to give an account of our lives. How does the suddenness of His coming make you feel? When Jesus returns, there will be no more opportunity for repentance because the time for judgment has come. Only those who have already put their faith in Christ and turned to God will be vindicated. How do you feel knowing this truth? What does it mean for those who think they have all the time in the world to turn away from a life of sin and towards a life with God? How are they mistaken? Are there believers you know who think this way? How would you encourage them to return to God before it’s too late? Sin can harden our hearts if we repeatedly refuse to respond to the Spirit’s prompting to repent (Heb 3:12-13). We never know when is the last time we can respond to God’s rebuke or correction. What usually hinders believers from repenting? How can the LG encourage one another to cultivate a lifestyle of repentance?
Reflection Questions
1) The Lord delays in His mercy (8-9)
Why is repentance essential in our relationship with the Father? How does God’s kindness and mercy motivate believers to repent? What happens if we take His mercy for granted?
2) The Lord will come suddenly in His justice (10)
When Jesus returns, there will be no more opportunity for repentance because the time for judgment has come. Only those who have already put their faith in Christ and turned to God will be vindicated. How do you feel knowing this truth? How can the LG encourage one another to cultivate a lifestyle of repentance?