We Look for New Heavens and a New Earth (2 Peter 3:10-14)
Introduction:
1. This morning we studied passages that teach us about "the day of the Lord" mentioned in vs.10. 2. This evening we are concentrating on a statement made in vs.13 -- we "look for new heavens and a new earth." 3. The first point we need to make is that . . . Discussion: I. GOD HAS PROMISED NEW HEAVENS AND A NEW EARTH
A. Peter began this letter by mentioning the fact that God has given to us "exceeding great and precious promises" (2 Peter 1:4). B. According to 2 Peter 3:13, our anticipation of new heavens and a new earth is based on God's promise. C. This particular promise is also mentioned in: 1. Isaiah 65:17; 66:22 2. Revelation 21:1. II. WHY NEW HEAVENS AND A NEW EARTH ARE NECESSARY
A. We learn from Genesis 1 that God created the heavens and the earth (vs.1) to provide a dwelling place for man (vs.26-31). B. After the flood, God indicated that the earth will not last forever (Genesis 8:22). C. The heavens and the earth will be destroyed when Jesus returns (2 Peter 3:10). D. When John saw "a new heaven and a new earth,""the first heaven and the first earth were passed away" (Revelation 21:1). III. GOD WILL DWELL WITH HIS PEOPLE FOREVER IN THE NEW HEAVENS AND THE NEW EARTH
A. Jesus has gone there to prepare a dwelling place for His people (John 14:1-3). B. (2 Corinthians 5:1) This place is described as "a building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." C. We learn from 2 Peter 3:13 that "righteousness" dwells in this place. D. John described this beautiful place (Revelation 21:2-4, 10, 22-27; 22:1-5). Conclusion:
1. God's promise of new heavens and a new earth should affect the way we live. 2. This is the point made in 2 Peter 3:11-14.
