Exposition of 2 Peter 3:11-12 and Holy Living

The passage of 2 Peter 3:11-12 exhorts believers to live holy and godly lives in light of the Lord's return, as it states that the day of the Lord will bring about the dissolution of the heavens and the earth. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that all things work together for good to those who love God, but in 2 Peter, the focus is on the believer's response to the knowledge of the Lord's return. This truth addresses the heart of the believer, encouraging them to live with a sense of urgency and purpose, knowing that their actions have eternal consequences.

The doctrine of the Lord's return is a powerful motivator for believers to live holy and godly lives, as it reminds them that their time on earth is short and that they will be held accountable for their actions. This truth is rooted in the Reformed theology of the sovereignty of God, who is the one who will bring about the end of all things.

In light of this truth, believers are encouraged to live with a sense of reverence and awe, knowing that the Lord's return is a certainty and that they will be judged according to their works. As Peter writes, believers should be "found by him in peace, without spot and blameless" (2 Peter 3:14), which is only possible through the imputed righteousness of Christ, as seen in 2 Peter 3:11-12, where it is written that believers should be "looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat". This passage emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God, in anticipation of the Lord's return.