2 Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
Introductory Thoughts
“The day of the Lord” is going to be a time of judgment (Isaiah 13:6). It is a day that is not to be desired (Amos 5:18-20). This day begins shortly before the second coming of Christ and extends to the dissolving of the heavens and earth (2 Peter 3:10-11) lasting approximately 1,000 years (2 Peter 3:8). Sometime after Christ removes the church (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18), He will establish the time of Jacob’s trouble in order to turn the Jews back to Himself. At the end of this time of terrible tribulation, the Lord Jesus will return as a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:1-4) to make up His jewels (Malachi 3:17), and every eye will see Him (Revelation 1:7).
Devotional Thoughts
• (For children): Thieves usually operate in darkness (Job 24:16; John 3:19-20). The onset of the day of the Lord will be very unpleasant (Joel 2:11, 31; Malachi 4:5; Jude 1:14-15). Saved people living now do not fear this time because the Rapture removes Christians before this day (1 Thessalonians 5:9; Titus 2:13).
• (For everyone): Why does it make sense that the Lord’s second coming will be as a thief in the night? What people group actually make up the Lord’s jewels?
• The Lord purchased the church. Therefore, He need not come as a thief to gather what He has purchased. What is different about His second coming (Revelation 16:15)?
Prayer Thoughts
• Thank the Lord for saving you by His marvellous grace.
• Ask the Lord to deal with your loved ones before it is too late.
SONG: BEHOLD HE COMES!