knowing this first, that in the last days mockers will come, walking after their own lusts and saying, “Where is the promise of his coming? For, from the day that the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. 2 Peter 3:3-4 WEB
Chapter two of Peter’s second letter warns of false teachers and the destruction they bring to the church. Also, Peter makes clear that the folly of their teaching will lead to their own destruction. In Chapter three, Peter continues to address false teaching, writing that mockers will come attempting to persuade believers that Jesus is not returning for his faithful. To counter this sort of argument, Peter encourages the church to focus on the word of God and the commands of Christ.
In preparing his disciples for his crucifixion Jesus comforted them. The Lord said in John 14:1-3, “Don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God. Believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many homes. If it weren’t so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be there also. WEB”
Help From the Holy Spirit
Before his death and resurrection, Jesus assured his followers that our heavenly Father will send the Holy Spirit to comfort and guide faithful believers in his absence. In John 14:26, Jesus said to his disciples, “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things, and will remind you of all that I said to you. WEB”
Although mockers will come, we have the word of God and the support of the Holy Spirit to help us endure challenges to our faith. In addition, we have the reliable testimony of those who witnessed Jesus’ ministry, death on the cross, and subsequent appearances after his resurrection. When we focus on the truth of the gospel message, ‘though mockers will come, we can rest assured that our Lord will return at the time appointed by our Father in heaven.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Thank you for the comfort and support of your Holy Spirit. Guide me to do your will with my life. Help me to overcome adversity through the power of your holy word. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Lord and Christ
