We now move to the third chapter of 2nd Peter. To study this portion let me suggest we use what I call the chapter study.
The primary objective with any study is to get God’s message. The process is, through gathering and organizing information and then drawing conclusions and establishing applications based on the material. In using the chapter study read the chapter over a few times, possibly in different translations. Then go through it verse by verse to identify or establish the following: a chapter title, a key verse, significant truth, any cross references either you think of or are listed in your Bible’s margin or concordance, any difficulties you will want to do further study on or that you think others might have, a brief summary statement or outline, and finally any obvious applications to be made to your life.
When I did this to study 2nd Peter 3 this is what I came up with. For the title: The Need for Wholesome Thinking. I could have chosen the last half of verse 1 for the key verse, but after some reflection I decided on verse 9, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
For a significant truth I wrote the following: Though some try to rationalize away facing their destiny, knowing your destiny certainly should inspire you to seek peace with God, live a holy life and continue to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
As preparation for our next visit look for cross references and list any difficulties you encountered as you reflect on the portion of scripture being studied.