“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief; on that day the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, the elements will burn and be dissolved, and the earth and the works on it will be disclosed. Since all these things are to be dissolved in this way, it is clear what sort of people you should be in holy conduct and godliness as you wait for the day of God and hasten its coming. Because of that day, the heavens will be dissolved with fire and the elements will melt with heat. But based on his promise, we wait for new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. Therefore, dear friends, while you wait for these things, make every effort to be found without spot or blemish in his sight, at peace. Also, regard the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our dear brother Paul has written to you according to the wisdom given to him.” 2 Peter 3:10-15 CSB https://bible.com/bible/1713/2pe.3.10-13.CSB

Is the end of the earth as we know it near? It is nearer today than yesterday, even as our own death is one day closer. So how should we live? Holy and godly should be our character, while our conduct should be the seeking and saving of the lost. We hasten God’s coming by winning people into His kingdom, for it is when His house is full that He closes the door to celebrate with all His people. Until then, we go to the highways to invite everyone into His kingdom, for this is the day of salvation for all who will repent and believe in the Lord Jesus for salvation. As we await His appearing, we work hard to be found spotless, without blemish, untainted, and uncorrupted by the thinking and behavior of this world. To be such people, we must know God’s word, the Scriptures, for He reveals His ways there. The Scripture must saturate our hearts and minds so that our lives are filled with the work of God, the reconciliation of everyone to Jesus the Savior, and the teaching of obedience to everything He commands. Too many Christians are believers in God but not obedient disciples of Jesus. These things are not synonymous Biblically, so give no reason to the believer to assure themselves they will be received by Him Who rewards good and faithful servants. The good and faithful servant is the one who hears God’s word and puts it into practice. The Word, the Spirit, and the Church are God’s provision for helping us live godly lives and for partnering to fulfill our mission, the Great Commission. Our character is to be holy as God is holy, and our conduct is to build His kingdom upon earth until He returns from heaven.