What Manner of People? A Charge to Live Holy & Godly Lives in Light of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ

Introduction

The apostle Peter, in his second epistle, poses a profound question: “What manner of persons ought you to be?” (2 Peter 3:11). 

This question arises in the context of the impending “day of the Lord,” a time marked by judgment, renewal, and the fulfillment of God’s promises. As believers, we are called to live with an eternal perspective, grounded in holiness and godliness, in anticipation of Christ’s return.

The passage highlights two key aspects of the believer’s life: the promise of God’s coming and the lifestyle required in light of that promise. Let us delve into these truths and understand how they apply to our daily lives.

The Promise of God’s Coming

The Day of the Lord

Peter describes the day of the Lord as coming “like a thief in the night” (2 Peter 3:10), signifying its sudden and unexpected nature. It will be a time of cosmic upheaval where “the heavens will pass away with a great noise,” and “the elements will melt with fervent heat.” 

The entire earth and its works will be laid bare before the Lord. This day, long foretold by prophets and confirmed by Jesus and the apostles, will mark the ultimate triumph of righteousness.

The apostle Paul reiterates this in 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5, warning that while the world may proclaim “peace and safety,” sudden destruction will come. For the unrighteous, it will be a day of terror, but for the righteous, it will be a day of rejoicing, much like the deliverance Noah and his family experienced in the ark during the flood (Genesis 7:23).

Living in Expectation

As Christians, we are not left in darkness about this event. Scripture calls us to watchfulness and preparedness, focusing our lives on what truly matters. Jesus emphasizes this in Matthew 24:21-22, where He speaks of unparalleled tribulation but assures us of God’s faithfulness to the elect.

The Believer’s Lifestyle

Holy Conduct and Godliness

In light of the coming day, Peter exhorts us to live lives characterized by holiness and godliness (2 Peter 3:11). Holiness involves being set apart for God, reflecting His character in every aspect of our lives. Godliness is the reverent pursuit of Christlikeness, where our actions, thoughts, and words align with His will.

Leviticus 19 provides practical insights into holy living: honoring parents, rejecting idolatry, practicing charity, and upholding integrity, justice, and love. These principles remain relevant as markers of a life consecrated to God.

A Kingdom Perspective

The ultimate goal of this lifestyle is to reflect the Kingdom of God. As Peter reminds us, we look forward to “new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13). 

Our focus should not be on material possessions, which will perish, but on eternal treasures—our relationship with God and the impact of our godly deeds.

Romans 13:11-12 urges us to “cast off the works of darkness” and “put on the armor of light,” reminding us that our salvation is nearer than ever.

Conclusion

As we await the day of the Lord, God calls us to a renewed life marked by holiness and righteousness. This life is not just about avoiding sin but actively embodying Christ’s nature. 

Peter reminds us that we are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9), set apart to proclaim God’s praises.

Let us, therefore, live in readiness, with holy conduct and godliness, anticipating the fulfillment of God’s promises. For in doing so, we align ourselves with the eternal Kingdom, where righteousness dwells forever.