II Peter 3:8-9

Again, we see God's attitude. The real subject is the return of Jesus Christ. When Peter wrote this, there were undoubtedly stirrings within the church—in fact, I know for sure there were—that the second coming had already occurred.

We understand that the apostles were looking forward to the return of Jesus Christ within their lifetimes, and they did not understand it. The people had to be encouraged. Undoubtedly, people were getting discouraged because they felt that things were going awry in their own world. They were frightened. They were anxious. They were in pain and they were saying, "How long, O Lord?" Maybe some were getting discouraged to the place where they were leaving.

So Peter writes that the Lord is not slack. It is His intention and God does not lie. God will send His Son to this earth. But He is being very patient and that is the emphasis that Peter puts on this.

II Peter 3:8-9

So now we hear Peter saying virtually the same thing that Paul said to Timothy. That God intends that all be saved, but we see here he adds the factor that God's purpose, the one that He is working out, involves vast periods of time, at least vast periods of time from man’s point of view. But He is still not willing that any should perish. It is God's will that is clearly seen but there is a problem. If salvation is going to come to people, they are going to have to repent.

II Peter 3:8-9

Brethren, this is God's very clear intention for all mankind, not just for us, but for all men.

But as He calls each in his own order, we must keep in mind our very special part in this as a group, and each of us individually, if we stay the course in humility because He is preparing us to be something that is almost beyond our ability to fully comprehend and appreciate as we come together this week for this very purposeful training and rejoicing.

II Peter 3:8-9

People misinterpret God's mercy, patience, and compassion and instead look upon what they are doing as something of which God approves. Thus, they continue what they are doing in blissful ignorance.