“Diligence To Be Found By Him” – 2 PETER 3:14-18

In the midst of the “crowd” we are swallowed by in our lives, we need not only to concern ourselves with our own salvation, but with the folks around us (see the previous devotional on Bartimeus). As Peter concludes his second and final correspondence, his mind is on these things. The theme of his second epistle is “remembrance” (1:12) … and we would do well to remember his inspired words. He concludes his letter with an admonition to be diligent so that when eternity dawns, we will be found in heaven (3:14).

Let’s look at this divine advice.

The key to faithfulness is to remember that Jesus wants us to live in peace and be found in peace when He returns (3:14). Paul has told us to live at peace with all people so much as it is up to us (3:15 and Romans 12:18), and Peter points to our efforts with the admonition to be spotless and blameless (3:14).

How are you doing?

The goal is not to leave this earth with everyone “liking” us, the goal is to be blameless with those who despise us. Factiousness, divisiveness and contentiousness in the church is far from peace and spotlessness. So, too, is being a force for friction and disharmony in the midst of the “crowd” of your life. Will Jesus find you embroiled in squabbles when He comes, or will you be at peace … spotless … blameless.

Just a reminder from Peter.

The Scriptures are to be a guiding light for our lives and not a weapon of breaking the peace (3:16). The “wisdom” given us by Paul (and all of the writers of Scripture – 3:15) teaches us that our lives are a question for understanding of God, self, others, and salvation. Some things are more difficult to understand and there is the danger of discouragement that diligence overcomes. At the same time, Peter reminds us that Scripture can be abused. How many time has peace been shattered by people who distort the inspired word of God to suit their own purposes? Religious error, religious persecution, and religious division all have their “foundation” in Scripture.

Such things, however, are not the way of peace-making – nor are they the way of spotlessness and blamelessness.

Peter says we should know these things (3:17) and watch out. The Christian life is one of watchful wariness and the diligent acquisition of knowledge to be use in self-defense as well as salvation. We can not only get distracted in a “crowd”, but we can be get carried away by a “crowd”. Peter reminds us of our responsibility to remain steadfast (3:17b). The key to peace, spotlessness, blamelessness, truth and accuracy in perseverance is a thriving relationship with your Savior (3:18).

Remember to grow.

Remember to grow in grace.

Remember to grow in knowledge.

Remember to watch for your soul.

Remember to watch for Bartimeus in the crowd.

How will you be found by Jesus?