HCBC Sunday School - “Friends” Class
With Anticipation (II Peter 3:3-13, 17-18)

1) First Thoughts
a. Waiting is a part of our lives. Waiting is not a bad thing; it’s a necessary thing and we can make the most of it. While we wait for the return of Christ, God encourages us to build up our character (thus expressing our assurance of His return) and demonstrate God’s grace by sharing Christ with all people.
2) Understand the Context
a. II Peter starts by encouraging believers to grow in our faith. Part of that growth is to establish Christians in the Word of God. Peter exposes false teachers. The final section explains the truth about Christ’s coming, the reason for the delay, and warns unbelievers to be ready and Christians to live holy.
3) Explore the Text
a. A Sure Return (3:3-7)
i. Creation and the flood are events that demonstrate how God can intervene in the order of the world.
ii. Instead of using water God will use the fire of a literal hell as judgment.
b. The Patient Father (3:8-9)
i. Scripture contrasts the eternity of God (He transcends time) with the impatient expectations of the false prophets.
ii. God is patiently waiting for unbelievers to repent and turn to Jesus.
c. The Warning Issued (3:10)
i. The return of Christ will usher in a day of judgment that unbelievers will be unprepared to face.
d. While Waiting (3:11-13,17-18)
i. Holiness involves two sides – separation from evil and dedication to God. We need to separate from the evil of the world and live in such a way that we accomplish God’s purposes and bring glory to His name.
ii. The coming of Christ is not something believers should fear but something we eagerly anticipate.
iii. We know that one day Christ will return and bring judgment. Remain strong!
4) Memory Verse: The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. ~ II Peter 3:9