What does "not wanting anyone to perish" reveal about God's character? The Verse in Focus “The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.” — 2 Peter 3:9 God’s Patient Heart • “Is patient with you”—God deliberately extends time so that people can turn to Him. • Patience here is not weakness; it is purposeful restraint. • Cross-reference: Romans 2:4, “God’s kindness leads you toward repentance.” • This patient waiting underscores that every moment before Christ’s return is a gift of opportunity. God’s Universal Desire to Save • “Not wanting anyone to perish”—His saving desire is universal, not selective. • Ezekiel 18:23: “Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? … Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live?” • 1 Timothy 2:3-4: God “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” • John 3:16 shows the same breadth: “For God so loved the world …” God’s Love Joined with Justice • God’s love is genuine, yet He remains just. The same chapter later warns of coming judgment (2 Peter 3:10). • His unwillingness that any perish does not cancel justice; instead, it postpones judgment to give space for repentance. • Psalm 103:8, “The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion.” God’s Initiative in Redemption • The phrase reveals a pursuing God—He takes the first step. • Luke 19:10: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” • His forbearance points to the cross, where justice and mercy meet (Romans 5:8). Implications for Believers • Confidence in evangelism: God’s heart is already inclined to save; we join His work (Matthew 28:19-20). • Motivation for holy living: since God waits for repentance, we live uprightly “as you look forward to the day of God” (2 Peter 3:12). • Assurance: His desire that none perish confirms His readiness to forgive all who truly repent (1 John 1:9). Summary Snapshot God’s refusal to let anyone perish without every opportunity to repent reveals: 1. A patient, purposeful heart. 2. A universal, sacrificial love. 3. A perfect blend of mercy and justice. 4. A relentless initiative to redeem. |
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