Learning on the way
Sermon Summary:
The sermon focuses on the concept of waiting for the Lord’s return and the promise of new heavens and new earth, as described in 2 Peter 3:10-13. It emphasizes three main questions: Are you waiting well? How can we hasten the day of God? And are you waiting for the right thing? The message challenges common misconceptions about heaven and presents a more biblical view of the new creation as an active, engaging place where believers will continue to learn, create, and work in perfect harmony with God and others.
Key Points:
- The Lord’s return will be sudden, so we should focus on what we’re responsible for
- We can hasten God’s day through prayer, evangelism, and discipleship
- The new heavens and earth will be physical, active places of creativity and purpose
- Heaven is not just an eternal church service but a restored and perfected creation
- Our works and motives will all be revealed when Christ returns
Small Group Questions:
1 Peter describes the day of the Lord coming “like a thief in the night.” How does this metaphor affect the way you think about your daily priorities and responsibilities?
2 The sermon mentioned that many people spend more time on things they are not responsible for rather than focusing on what they are responsible for. Where in your life might you be trying to control things that aren’t actually your responsibility?
3 According to the sermon, our motives and actions will be “exposed” when the Lord returns. How does this knowledge shape your approach to decision-making and relationships?
4 The sermon discusses three ways we can “hasten the day of God”: prayer, sharing the gospel, and discipling others. Which of these three areas do you feel most called to grow in right now, and why?
5 What misconceptions did you previously have about heaven, and how has your understanding changed after hearing this sermon’s description of “new heavens and a new earth”?
6 The sermon describes meaningful work and creativity as part of the new heavens and new earth. What aspects of work or creativity bring you joy now that you look forward to experiencing without the constraints of sin and mortality?
7 How does having a clearer biblical understanding of what we’re waiting for (the new heavens and new earth) impact how you live today? What specific aspects of your life might change with this eternal perspective?
Key Verses
2 Peter 3:10-13, Matthew 6:9-15
Application On The Way
This week, identify one area of responsibility God has given you and focus on stewarding it well. Additionally, share the hope of the new creation with at least one person, whether through words or actions.
Verses to Go Deeper: Revelation 21:1-5, 1 Corinthians 15:35-58, Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 8:18-25, Isaiah 65:17-25, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Matthew 6:9-13,Acts 1:6-11, Hebrews 12:25-29, Matthew 25:1-13