1st and 2nd Peter
Teachers
Lesson Summary
Teacher John McCarthy led the class through 2 Peter 3, examining Peter's response to scoffers who mocked the promise of Christ's return. The scoffers argued that since Christ had not yet returned despite the promise, God was not keeping His word. Peter addressed their skepticism with two counterarguments: first, that God operates on a vastly different timeline than humans—what appears to be delay to us is mere moments to the eternal God (2 Peter 3:8). McCarthy illustrated this theological truth by discussing Einstein's relativity and C.S. Lewis's concept of God as an author existing outside the narrative of time. Second, Peter argued that God's apparent delay in returning actually demonstrates His patience and desire for salvation—that more people might repent before judgment comes (2 Peter 3:9). McCarthy connected this to the flood narrative, noting that Noah served as a herald of righteousness for 75-120 years, yet only eight people were saved. He reflected on how God's patience has meant both salvation and life for believers today, while acknowledging that God will ultimately judge the earth again as He did in Noah's time. The class explored the tension between God's patience in offering salvation and His eventual return in judgment.
Key Scriptures
But know this, beloved: in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For there will be those who walk in accordance with the passions of the flesh, indulging in sensuality, loving gods and things other than the Lord, and having a reputation for wisdom, but not possessing it. They will say, 'Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.'
But by the same word the heavens and the earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.
But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.