Where Righteousness Dwells

2 Peter 3:13

But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.

In this short New Testament book, the author is likely addressing a number of churches in the first century that were struggling with false teachers. There were those who were challenging the inspiration of Scripture and the reliability of prophecy. They were also challenging the truth of Jesus’ second coming and wondering if it even matters how we live in the present if judgement is not forthcoming. The author reminds these early Christians of Peter’s teaching and defends the Christian message.

If these early Christians were struggling with conflicting teachings, then, imagine how they would react if plunked down in the middle of our 21st century world. They would likely have difficulty identifying followers of Christ, much less evidence of His teachings in their actions. With buildings dedicated to different denominations and non-denominations every where and stories of church leaders accused of abuse and wrongdoing in the daily news, not to mention all the news of human beings’ hatred and wrongdoing toward others, they might even think Christianity as they had learned about had died out years ago.

In other words, it is clear that this is not the new earth where righteousness dwells.

Does it matter how we live? Well, yes! In Matthew 22:37–40, we are commanded to  “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and most important commandment. The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.”

We are to strive for righteousness in the here and now. It is only through faith in Jesus Christ that we can begin to live as God intended us to live. Jesus teaches that righteousness is living in a way that is just, honest, and faithful to God. It is a state of moral and spiritual uprightness that involves living in obedience to God's commands. The way of the world is the opposite of righteous living, and it is mighty hard to separate ourselves from all that we are told represents worldly success – power, wealth, personal gain – all opposites of Jesus’ example of how to live.

It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives that we can remain focused on the commandment to love God and others. Jesus’ ministry on earth shows us what to do; His Holy Spirit enables us to emulate Him.

 “We are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth.” Yes, we are, but we can endeavor to live today in a way that shows others that Jesus’ teaching will always be true, and God will always be with us.

Let us pray: Heavenly father, we thank you for your Holy Word and for the inspired teachers who help us understand it so it may guide our lives in worship and service to you. May we remain vigilant and reject false teachings when we encounter them. Give us strength and wisdom as we endeavor to live righteous lives so that we may honor You. Amen.

This devotion was written and read by Pat Scruggs.

Grace for All is a daily devotional podcast produced by the members of the congregation of First United Methodist Church in Maryville, Tennessee. With these devotionals, we want to remind listeners on a daily basis of the love and grace that God extends to all human beings, no matter their location, status, or condition in life.

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