The Meaning of 2 Peter 3:10 Explained

2 Peter 3:10

KJV: But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

YLT: and it will come -- the day of the Lord -- as a thief in the night, in which the heavens with a rushing noise will pass away, and the elements with burning heat be dissolved, and earth and the works in it shall be burnt up.

Darby: But the day of the Lord will come as a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a rushing noise, and the elements, burning with heat, shall be dissolved, and the earth and the works in it shall be burnt up.

ASV: But the day of the Lord will come as a thief; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall be dissolved with fervent heat, and the earth and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

KJV Reverse Interlinear

But  the day  of the Lord  will come  as  a thief  in  the night;  in  the which  the heavens  shall pass away  with a great noise,  and  the elements  shall melt  with fervent heat,  the earth  also  and  the works  that are therein  shall be burned up. 

What does 2 Peter 3:10 Mean?

Verse Meaning

The phrase "day of the Lord" refers to a specific time yet future, as elsewhere in Scripture. This "day" will begin when Antichrist makes a covenant with Israel, and it will conclude with the burning up of the present heavens and earth ( Daniel 9:27; 2 Peter 3:12; et al.). Some ancient manuscripts read "the earth and its works will be laid bare [1]." This could mean that the earth and its works will be exposed for what they really are. "Its works" probably refers to all that has been done on earth that has only temporal value (e.g, buildings, etc.). This day will come as a thief in that its beginning will take those unbelievers living on the earth then (after the Rapture) by surprise ( Matthew 24:37-39; Matthew 24:43-44; Luke 12:39-40; 1 Thessalonians 5:2; Revelation 3:3; Revelation 16:15). The term "heavens" probably refers to the earth"s atmosphere and the "second heaven" in which the stars and the planets exist, not God"s abode (the "third heaven"). The "elements" (Gr. stoicheia) apparently refer to the material building blocks of physical things (i.e, the atoms, molecules, and larger masses that are foundational to still larger things). Other views are that they are the heavenly bodies or the angelic powers.
After the Flood, God told Noah, "I will never again destroy every living thing, as I have done. While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease" ( Genesis 8:21-22). He meant that He would not do so with another flood. He went on to say, "All flesh shall never again be cut off by the water of the flood, neither shall there again be a flood to destroy the earth" ( Genesis 9:11 b; cf. 2 Peter 3:15). Peter"s announcement of a worldwide judgment by fire does not, therefore, contradict God"s promise in the Noahic Covenant.
When in the "day of the Lord" will this conflagration take place? Some believe it will happen at the beginning of the millennial kingdom. [2] Of these some believe this destruction will be only a limited renovation of the earth. [3] It seems more likely however that this holocaust will take place at the end of the Millennium and will result in the destruction of the universe as we know it ( Revelation 21:1; cf. Matthew 5:18; Matthew 24:35; Mark 13:31; Luke 16:17; Luke 21:33). [4]
"Peter clearly opposes those Christians who insisted that Christ had to return within a certain short period of time after his resurrection. But he by no means opposes the idea of imminence itself." [5]
"Only the book of Revelation in the New Testament speaks so directly about the cosmic effects of the day of the Lord." [6]

Context Summary

2 Peter 3:10-18 - "holy Living And Godliness"
How quickly the great European convulsion broke upon the world in the summer of 1914! Who expected such a sudden burst of the great storm! We are evidently near some vast change in the history of mankind, which may fitly be compared to the coming of new heavens and a new earth, as mentioned in 2 Peter 3:13. The condition of the world calls on each of us to be holy, as the virgins in their pure dresses, with burning and well-filled lamps. See Matthew 25:1-13. This is the manner in which we may hasten the coming of the day of God. It is not enough to say, "Thy kingdom come." Each day we should move some pebble from its pathway!
In twenty-four hours God can do as much as all His servants at home and abroad could not accomplish in a thousand years. According to God's chronology, it was on the morning of yesterday that Jesus died. Be watchful. Christ's coming is certain, but not the hour. If we are blameless now, we shall be faultless presently. See Judges 1:24 [source]

Chapter Summary: 2 Peter 3

1  He assures them of the certainty of Christ's coming to judgment;
8  warning the godly, for the long patience of God, to hasten their repentance
10  He describes also the manner how the world shall be destroyed;
11  exhorting them to all holiness of life;
16  and again to think the patience of God to tend to their salvation, as Paul wrote to them in his epistles

Greek Commentary for 2 Peter 3:10

The day of the Lord [ημερα κυριου]
So Peter in Acts 2:20 (from Joel 3:4) and Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:4; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 5:5; and day of Christ in Philemon 2:16 and day of God in 2 Peter 2:12 and day of judgment already in 2 Peter 2:9; 2 Peter 3:7. This great day will certainly come Future active of ηκω — hēkō old verb, to arrive, but in God‘s own time. [source]
As a thief [ως κλεπτης]
That is suddenly, without notice. This very metaphor Jesus had used (Luke 12:39; Matthew 24:43) and Paul after him (1 Thessalonians 5:2) and John will quote it also (Revelation 3:3; Revelation 16:15).In the which (εν ηι — en hēi). The day when the Lord comes.Shall pass away Future middle of παρερχομαι — parerchomai old verb, to pass by.With a great noise (ροιζηδον — roizēdon). Late and rare adverb (from ροιζεω ροιζος — roizeōτα στοιχεια — roizos) - Lycophron, Nicander, here only in N.T., onomatopoetic, whizzing sound of rapid motion through the air like the flight of a bird, thunder, fierce flame.The elements Old word (from λυτησεται — stoichos a row), in Plato in this sense, in other senses also in N.T. as the alphabet, ceremonial regulations (Hebrews 5:12; Galatians 4:3; Galatians 5:1; Colossians 2:8).Shall be dissolved (λυω — luthēsetai). Future passive of στοιχεια — luō to loosen, singular because καυσουμενα — stoicheia is neuter plural.With fervent heat Present passive participle of καυσος — kausoō late verb (from καυσομενα — kausos usually medical term for fever) and nearly always employed for fever temperature. Mayor suggests a conflagration from internal heat. Bigg thinks it merely a vernacular (Doric) future for καιω — kausomena (from κατακαησεται — kaiō to burn).Shall be burned up (κατακαιω — katakaēsetai). Repeated in 2 Peter 3:12. Second future passive of the compound verb ευρετησεται — katakaiō to burn down (up), according to A L. But Aleph B K P read ευρισκω — heurethēsetai (future passive of heuriskō to find) “shall be found.” There are various other readings here. The text seems corrupt. [source]
In the which [εν ηι]
The day when the Lord comes. [source]
Shall pass away [παρελευσονται]
Future middle of παρερχομαι — parerchomai old verb, to pass by.With a great noise (ροιζηδον — roizēdon). Late and rare adverb (from ροιζεω ροιζος — roizeōτα στοιχεια — roizos) - Lycophron, Nicander, here only in N.T., onomatopoetic, whizzing sound of rapid motion through the air like the flight of a bird, thunder, fierce flame.The elements Old word (from λυτησεται — stoichos a row), in Plato in this sense, in other senses also in N.T. as the alphabet, ceremonial regulations (Hebrews 5:12; Galatians 4:3; Galatians 5:1; Colossians 2:8).Shall be dissolved (λυω — luthēsetai). Future passive of στοιχεια — luō to loosen, singular because καυσουμενα — stoicheia is neuter plural.With fervent heat Present passive participle of καυσος — kausoō late verb (from καυσομενα — kausos usually medical term for fever) and nearly always employed for fever temperature. Mayor suggests a conflagration from internal heat. Bigg thinks it merely a vernacular (Doric) future for καιω — kausomena (from κατακαησεται — kaiō to burn).Shall be burned up (κατακαιω — katakaēsetai). Repeated in 2 Peter 3:12. Second future passive of the compound verb ευρετησεται — katakaiō to burn down (up), according to A L. But Aleph B K P read ευρισκω — heurethēsetai (future passive of heuriskō to find) “shall be found.” There are various other readings here. The text seems corrupt. [source]
With a great noise [ροιζηδον]
Late and rare adverb (from ροιζεω ροιζος — roizeōτα στοιχεια — roizos) - Lycophron, Nicander, here only in N.T., onomatopoetic, whizzing sound of rapid motion through the air like the flight of a bird, thunder, fierce flame. [source]
The elements [στοιχος]
Old word (from λυτησεται — stoichos a row), in Plato in this sense, in other senses also in N.T. as the alphabet, ceremonial regulations (Hebrews 5:12; Galatians 4:3; Galatians 5:1; Colossians 2:8).Shall be dissolved (λυω — luthēsetai). Future passive of στοιχεια — luō to loosen, singular because καυσουμενα — stoicheia is neuter plural.With fervent heat Present passive participle of καυσος — kausoō late verb (from καυσομενα — kausos usually medical term for fever) and nearly always employed for fever temperature. Mayor suggests a conflagration from internal heat. Bigg thinks it merely a vernacular (Doric) future for καιω — kausomena (from κατακαησεται — kaiō to burn).Shall be burned up (κατακαιω — katakaēsetai). Repeated in 2 Peter 3:12. Second future passive of the compound verb ευρετησεται — katakaiō to burn down (up), according to A L. But Aleph B K P read ευρισκω — heurethēsetai (future passive of heuriskō to find) “shall be found.” There are various other readings here. The text seems corrupt. [source]
Shall be dissolved [λυω]
Future passive of στοιχεια — luō to loosen, singular because καυσουμενα — stoicheia is neuter plural. [source]
With fervent heat [καυσοω]
Present passive participle of καυσος — kausoō late verb (from καυσομενα — kausos usually medical term for fever) and nearly always employed for fever temperature. Mayor suggests a conflagration from internal heat. Bigg thinks it merely a vernacular (Doric) future for καιω — kausomena (from κατακαησεται — kaiō to burn).Shall be burned up (κατακαιω — katakaēsetai). Repeated in 2 Peter 3:12. Second future passive of the compound verb ευρετησεται — katakaiō to burn down (up), according to A L. But Aleph B K P read ευρισκω — heurethēsetai (future passive of heuriskō to find) “shall be found.” There are various other readings here. The text seems corrupt. [source]
Shall be burned up [κατακαιω]
Repeated in 2 Peter 3:12. Second future passive of the compound verb ευρετησεται — katakaiō to burn down (up), according to A L. But Aleph B K P read ευρισκω — heurethēsetai (future passive of heuriskō to find) “shall be found.” There are various other readings here. The text seems corrupt. [source]
The day of the Lord []
Compare the same phrase in Peter's sermon, Acts 2:20. It occurs only in these two passages and 1 Thessalonians 5:2. See 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14. [source]
The elements [στοιχεῖα]
Derived from στοῖχος , a row, and meaning originally one of a row or series; hence a component or element. The name for the letters of the alphabet, as being set in rows. Applied to the four elements - fire, air, earth, water; and in later times to the planets and signs of the zodiac. It is used in all ethical sense in other passages; as in Galatians 4:3, “elements or rudiments of the world.” Also of elementary teaching, such as the law, which was fitted for an earlier stage in the world's history; and of the first principles of religious knowledge among men. In Colossians 2:8, of formal ordinances. Compare Hebrews 5:12. The kindred verb στοιχέω , to walk, carries the idea of keeping in line, according to the radical sense. Thus, walk according to rule (Galatians 6:16); walkest orderly (Acts 21:24). So, too, the compound συστοιχέω , only in Galatians 4:25, answereth to, lit., belongs to the same row or column with. The Greek grammarians called the categories of letters arranged according to the organs of speech συστοιχίαι . Here the word is of course used in a physical sense, meaning the parts of which this system of things is composed. Some take it as meaning the heavenly bodies, but the term is too late and technical in that sense. Compare Matthew 24:29, the powers of the heaven. [source]
Shall melt [λυθήσονται]
More literally, as Rev., shall be dissolved. [source]
With fervent heat [καυσούμενα]
Lit., being scorched up. [source]
As a thief []
Omit in the night. Compare Matthew 24:43; 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:4; Revelation 3:3; Revelation 16:15. [source]
With a great noise [ῥοιζηδὸν]
An adverb peculiar to Peter, and occurring only here. It is a word in which the sound suggests the sense (rhoizedon)and the kindred noun, ῥοῖζος , is used in classical Greek of the whistling of an arrow; the sound of a shepherd's pipe; the rush of wings; the plash of water; the hissing of a serpent; and the sound of filing. [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for 2 Peter 3:10

Acts 21:24 Walkest orderly [στοιχεῖς]
See on elements, 2 Peter 3:10. [source]
Romans 4:12 Walk [στοιχοῦσιν]
See on elements, 2 Peter 3:10. [source]
Galatians 4:3 Elements of the world [τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου]
For the word στοιχεῖα in N.T. see Colossians 2:8, Colossians 2:20; Hebrews 5:12; 2 Peter 3:10, 2 Peter 3:12. See on 2 Peter 3:10. Interpretations differ. 1. Elements of knowledge, rudimentary religious ideas. See Hebrews 5:12. The meaning of world will then be, the material as distinguished from the spiritual realm. Elements of the world will be the crude beginnings of religion, suited to the condition of children, and pertaining to those who are not Christians: elementary religious truths belonging to mankind in general. Thus the Jewish economy was of the world as appealing to the senses, and affording only the first elements of a spiritual system. The child-heir was taught only faint outlines of spiritual truth, and was taught them by worldly symbols. 2. Elements of nature - of the physical world, especially the heavenly bodies. See 2 Peter 3:10, 2 Peter 3:12; Wisd. 7:17. According to this explanation, the point would be that the ordering of the religious life was regulated by the order of nature; “the days, months, times,” etc. (Galatians 4:10), as well as the heathen festivals, being dependent on the movements of the heavenly bodies. This was the patristic view (Ambrose, Augustine, Chrysostom, Theodoret). 3. The elements of the world are the personal, elemental spirits. This seems to be the preferable explanation, both here and in Colossians 2:8. According to Jewish ideas, all things had their special angels. In the Book of Jubilees, chapter 2, appear, the angel of the presence (comp. Isaiah 63:9); the angel of adoration; the spirits of the wind, the clouds, darkness, hail, frost, thunder and lightning, winter and spring, cold and heat. In the Book of Enoch, 82:10-14, appear the angels of the stars, who keep watch that the stars may appear at the appointed time, and who are punished if the stars do not appear (18:15). In the Revelation of John we find four angels of the winds (14:18); the angel of the waters (16:5); the angel in the sun (19:17). In Hebrews 1:7we read, “who maketh his angels winds.” Paul also recognizes elemental forces of the spiritual world. The thorn is “a messenger of Satan” (2 Corinthians 12:7); Satan prevents his journey to Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 2:18); the Corinthian offender is to be “delivered to Satan” (1 Corinthians 5:5); the Kingdom of God is opposed by “principalities and powers” (1 Corinthians 15:24); Christians wrestle against “the rulers of the darkness of this world; against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the upper regions” (Ephesians 6:12). In this passage the elements of the world are compared with overseers and stewards. This would seem to require a personal interpretation. In Galatians 4:8, “did service to them which by nature are no gods,” appears to be = “in bondage under the elements,” suggesting a personal interpretation of the latter. The Galatians had turned again to the observance of times and seasons (Galatians 4:10), which were controlled by the heavenly bodies and their spirits. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
[source]

Galatians 4:3 We were held in bondage [ημεις ημετα δεδουλωμενοι]
Periphrastic past perfect of δουλοω — douloō to enslave, in a permanent state of bondage. Under the rudiments of the world (υπο τα στοιχεια του κοσμου — hupo ta stoicheia tou kosmou). Στοιχος — Stoichos is row or rank, a series. So στοιχειον — stoicheion is any first thing in a στοιχος — stoichos like the letters of the alphabet, the material elements in the universe (2 Peter 3:10), the heavenly bodies (some argue for that here), the rudiments of any act (Hebrews 5:12; Acts 15:10; Galatians 5:1; Galatians 4:3, Galatians 4:9; Colossians 2:8, Colossians 2:20). The papyri illustrate all the varieties in meaning of this word. Burton has a valuable excursus on the word in his commentary. Probably here (Lightfoot) Paul has in mind the rudimentary character of the law as it applies to both Jews and Gentiles, to all the knowledge of the world (κοσμος — kosmos as the orderly material universe as in Colossians 2:8, Colossians 2:20). See note on Matthew 13:38; note on Acts 17:24; note on 1 Corinthians 3:22. All were in the elementary stage before Christ came. [source]
Galatians 4:3 Under the rudiments of the world [υπο τα στοιχεια του κοσμου]
Στοιχος — Stoichos is row or rank, a series. So στοιχειον — stoicheion is any first thing in a στοιχος — stoichos like the letters of the alphabet, the material elements in the universe (2 Peter 3:10), the heavenly bodies (some argue for that here), the rudiments of any act (Hebrews 5:12; Acts 15:10; Galatians 5:1; Galatians 4:3, Galatians 4:9; Colossians 2:8, Colossians 2:20). The papyri illustrate all the varieties in meaning of this word. Burton has a valuable excursus on the word in his commentary. Probably here (Lightfoot) Paul has in mind the rudimentary character of the law as it applies to both Jews and Gentiles, to all the knowledge of the world See note on Matthew 13:38; note on Acts 17:24; note on 1 Corinthians 3:22. All were in the elementary stage before Christ came. [source]
Colossians 2:8 Rudiments [στοιχεῖα]
See on 2 Peter 3:10. Rudimentary teachings, as in Hebrews 5:12; applicable alike to Jewish and to Gentile teaching. Ceremonialism - meats, drinks, washings, Essenic asceticism, pagan symbolic mysteries and initiatory rites - all belonged to a rudimentary moral stage. Compare Colossians 2:11, Colossians 2:21, and Galatians 4:9. [source]
Colossians 2:8 Lest there shall be any one [μη τις εσται]
Negative purpose with the future indicative, though the aorist subjunctive also occurs as in 2 Corinthians 12:6. That maketh spoil of you (ο συλαγωγων — ho sulagōgōn). Articular present active participle of συλαγωγεω — sulagōgeō late and rare (found here first) verb (from συλη — sulē booty, and αγω — agō to lead, to carry), to carry off as booty a captive, slave, maiden. Only here in N.T. Note the singular here. There was some one outstanding leader who was doing most of the damage in leading the people astray. Through his philosophy The only use of the word in the N.T. and employed by Paul because the Gnostics were fond of it. Old word from πιλοσοπος — philosophos Old word for trick, guile, like riches (Matthew 13:22). Descriptive of the philosophy of the Gnostics. Tradition Old word from στοιχεια — paradidōmi a giving over, a passing on. The word is colourless in itself. The tradition may be good (2 Thessalonians 2:15; 2 Thessalonians 3:6) or bad (Mark 7:3). Here it is worthless and harmful, merely the foolish theories of the Gnostics. Rudiments (στοιχος — stoicheia). Old word for anything in a και ου κατα Χριστον — stoichos (row, series) like the letters of the alphabet, the materials of the universe (2 Peter 3:10, 2 Peter 3:12), elementary teaching (Hebrews 5:12), elements of Jewish ceremonial training (Acts 15:10; Galatians 4:3, Galatians 4:9), the specious arguments of the Gnostic philosophers as here with all their aeons and rules of life. And not after Christ Christ is the yardstick by which to measure philosophy and all phases of human knowledge. The Gnostics were measuring Christ by their philosophy as many men are doing today. They have it backwards. Christ is the measure for all human knowledge since he is the Creator and the Sustainer of the universe. [source]
Colossians 2:8 Through his philosophy [δια της πιλοσοπιας]
The only use of the word in the N.T. and employed by Paul because the Gnostics were fond of it. Old word from πιλοσοπος — philosophos Old word for trick, guile, like riches (Matthew 13:22). Descriptive of the philosophy of the Gnostics. Tradition Old word from στοιχεια — paradidōmi a giving over, a passing on. The word is colourless in itself. The tradition may be good (2 Thessalonians 2:15; 2 Thessalonians 3:6) or bad (Mark 7:3). Here it is worthless and harmful, merely the foolish theories of the Gnostics. Rudiments (στοιχος — stoicheia). Old word for anything in a και ου κατα Χριστον — stoichos (row, series) like the letters of the alphabet, the materials of the universe (2 Peter 3:10, 2 Peter 3:12), elementary teaching (Hebrews 5:12), elements of Jewish ceremonial training (Acts 15:10; Galatians 4:3, Galatians 4:9), the specious arguments of the Gnostic philosophers as here with all their aeons and rules of life. And not after Christ Christ is the yardstick by which to measure philosophy and all phases of human knowledge. The Gnostics were measuring Christ by their philosophy as many men are doing today. They have it backwards. Christ is the measure for all human knowledge since he is the Creator and the Sustainer of the universe. [source]
Colossians 2:8 Tradition [παραδιδωμι]
Old word from στοιχεια — paradidōmi a giving over, a passing on. The word is colourless in itself. The tradition may be good (2 Thessalonians 2:15; 2 Thessalonians 3:6) or bad (Mark 7:3). Here it is worthless and harmful, merely the foolish theories of the Gnostics. Rudiments (στοιχος — stoicheia). Old word for anything in a και ου κατα Χριστον — stoichos (row, series) like the letters of the alphabet, the materials of the universe (2 Peter 3:10, 2 Peter 3:12), elementary teaching (Hebrews 5:12), elements of Jewish ceremonial training (Acts 15:10; Galatians 4:3, Galatians 4:9), the specious arguments of the Gnostic philosophers as here with all their aeons and rules of life. And not after Christ Christ is the yardstick by which to measure philosophy and all phases of human knowledge. The Gnostics were measuring Christ by their philosophy as many men are doing today. They have it backwards. Christ is the measure for all human knowledge since he is the Creator and the Sustainer of the universe. [source]
Colossians 2:8 Rudiments [στοιχος]
Old word for anything in a και ου κατα Χριστον — stoichos (row, series) like the letters of the alphabet, the materials of the universe (2 Peter 3:10, 2 Peter 3:12), elementary teaching (Hebrews 5:12), elements of Jewish ceremonial training (Acts 15:10; Galatians 4:3, Galatians 4:9), the specious arguments of the Gnostic philosophers as here with all their aeons and rules of life. [source]
1 Thessalonians 5:2 As a thief [ὡς κλέπτης]
Comp. Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39; 2 Peter 3:10; Revelation 16:15, and see on Revelation 3:3. [source]
1 Thessalonians 5:2 As a thief in the night [ως κλεπτης εν νυκτι]
As a thief at night, suddenly and unexpectedly. Reminiscence of the word of Jesus (Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39), used also in 2 Peter 3:10; Revelation 3:3; Revelation 16:15. Cometh (ερχεται — erchetai). Prophetic or futuristic present tense. [source]
2 Peter 3:12 Melt [τήκεται]
Literal. Stronger than the word in 2 Peter 3:10, 2 Peter 3:11. Not only the resolving, but the wasting away of nature. Only here in New Testament. [source]
2 Peter 3:12 Being on fire [πυρουμενοι]
Present passive participle of πυροω — puroō old verb (from pur), same idea as in 2 Peter 3:10.Shall melt (τηκεται — tēketai). Futuristic present passive indicative of τηκω — tēkō old verb, to make liquid, here only in N.T. Hort suggests τηχεται — tēxetai (future middle), though Isaiah 34:4 has τακησονται — takēsontai (second future passive). The repetitions here make “an effective refrain” (Mayor). [source]
2 Peter 3:14 Give diligence [σπουδασατε]
As in 2 Peter 1:10.That ye may be found (ευρετηναι — heurethēnai). First aorist passive infinitive (cf. ευρετησεται — heurethēsetai in 2 Peter 3:10). For this use of ευρισκω — heuriskō about the end see 2 Corinthians 5:3; Philemon 3:9; 1 Peter 1:7.Without spot and blameless Predicate nominative after ευρετηναι — heurethēnai See 2 Peter 2:13 for position words σπιλοι και μωμοι — spiloi kai mōmoi and 1 Peter 1:19 for αμωμος — amōmos (so Judges 1:24) και ασπιλος — kai aspilos (so James 1:27). Αμωμητος — Amōmētos (old verbal of μωμαομαι — mōmaomai) only here in N.T. save some MSS. in Philemon 2:15. [source]
2 Peter 3:14 That ye may be found [ευρετηναι]
First aorist passive infinitive (cf. ευρετησεται — heurethēsetai in 2 Peter 3:10). For this use of ευρισκω — heuriskō about the end see 2 Corinthians 5:3; Philemon 3:9; 1 Peter 1:7. [source]
Revelation 3:3 As a thief [ὡς κλέπτης]
Thief, as distinguished from hp λῃστής robbera plunderer on a larger scale, who secures his booty not by stealth, but by violence. Hence the word is appropriate here to mark the unexpected and stealthy coming of the Lord. Compare 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:4; 2 Peter 3:10. [source]
Revelation 16:15 As a thief []
Compare Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39; 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:4; 2 Peter 3:10. [source]
Revelation 1:10 On the Lord's day [ἐν κυριακῇ ἡμέρᾳ]
The phrase occurs only here in the New Testament. The first day of the week, the festival of the Lord's resurrection. Not, as some, the day of judgment, which in the New Testament is expressed by ἡ ἡμέρα τοῦ Κυρίου theday of the Lord (2 Thessalonians 2:2); or ἡμέρα Κυρίου theday of the Lord, the article being omitted (2 Peter 3:10); or ἡμέρα Χριστοῦ theday of Christ (Philemon 2:16). The usual New Testament expression for the first day of the week is ἡ μία τῶν σαββάτων (Luke 24:1; see on Acts 20:7). [source]
Revelation 20:11 From whose face the earth and the heaven fled away [ου απο προσωπου επυγεν η γε και ο ουρανος]
Second aorist (prophetic) active of πευγω — pheugō See Revelation 16:20. The non-eternity of matter is a common teaching in the O.T. (Psalm 97:5; Psalm 102:27; Isaiah 51:6) as in the N.T. (Mark 13:31; 2 Peter 3:10).Was found (ευρετη — heurethē). First aorist passive indicative of ευρισκω — heuriskō All is now spiritual. Even scientists today are speaking of the non-eternity of the universe. [source]
Revelation 3:3 I will come [ηχω]
Certainly future active here, though probably aorist subjunctive in Revelation 2:25.As a thief (ως κλεπτης — hōs kleptēs). As Jesus had already said (Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39), as Paul had said (1 Thessalonians 5:2), as Peter had said (2 Peter 3:10), as Jesus will say again (Revelation 16:15).Thou shalt not know Strong double negative ου μη — ou mē with second aorist active subjunctive of γινωσκω — ginōskō though some MSS. have the future middle indicative γνωσηι — gnōsēi hour A rare classical idiom (accusative) surviving in the Koiné rather than the genitive of time, somewhat like John 4:52; Acts 20:16 (Robertson, Grammar, p. 470f.). Indirect question with ποιαν — poian f0). [source]
Revelation 3:3 As a thief [ως κλεπτης]
As Jesus had already said (Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39), as Paul had said (1 Thessalonians 5:2), as Peter had said (2 Peter 3:10), as Jesus will say again (Revelation 16:15). [source]
Revelation 1:10 On the Lord‘s Day [εν τηι κυριακηι ημεραι]
Deissmann has proven (Bible Studies, p. 217f.; Light, etc., p. 357ff.) from inscriptions and papyri that the word κυριακος — kuriakos was in common use for the sense “imperial” as imperial finance and imperial treasury and from papyri and ostraca that ημερα Σεβαστη — hēmera Sebastē (Augustus Day) was the first day of each month, Emperor‘s Day on which money payments were made (cf. 1 Corinthians 16:1.). It was easy, therefore, for the Christians to take this term, already in use, and apply it to the first day of the week in honour of the Lord Jesus Christ‘s resurrection on that day (Didache 14, Ignatius Magn. 9). In the N.T. the word occurs only here and 1 Corinthians 11:20 It has no reference to ημερα κυριου — hēmera kuriou (the day of judgment, 2 Peter 3:10).Behind me (οπισω μου — opisō mou). “The unexpected, overpowering entrance of the divine voice” (Vincent). Cf. Ezekiel 3:12.Voice Of Christ, as is plain in Revelation 1:12.As of a trumpet (ως σαλπιγγος — hōs salpiggos). So in Revelation 4:1 referring to this.Saying Present active participle genitive case agreeing with σαλπιγγος — salpiggos rather than λεγουσαν — legousan accusative agreeing with πωνην — phōnēn So on purpose, as is clear from Revelation 4:1, where λαλουσης — lalousēs also agrees with σαλπιγγος — salpiggos f0). [source]
Revelation 3:3 Therefore [ουν]
Resumptive and coordinating as in Revelation 1:19; Revelation 2:5.Thou hast received (ειληπας — eilēphas). Perfect active indicative of λαμβανω — lambanō “as a permanent deposit” (Vincent).Didst hear First aorist active indicative, the act of hearing at the time.And keep it (και τηρει — kai tērei). Present active imperative of τηρεω — tēreō “hold on to what thou hast.”And repent First aorist active imperative of μετανοεω — metanoeō “Turn at once.”If therefore thou shalt not watch (εαν ουν μη γρηγορησηις — ean oun mē grēgorēsēis). Condition of third class with εαν μη — ean mē and the first aorist (ingressive) active subjunctive of γρηγορεω — grēgoreō “if then thou do not wake up.”I will come Certainly future active here, though probably aorist subjunctive in Revelation 2:25.As a thief (ως κλεπτης — hōs kleptēs). As Jesus had already said (Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39), as Paul had said (1 Thessalonians 5:2), as Peter had said (2 Peter 3:10), as Jesus will say again (Revelation 16:15).Thou shalt not know Strong double negative ου μη — ou mē with second aorist active subjunctive of γινωσκω — ginōskō though some MSS. have the future middle indicative γνωσηι — gnōsēi hour A rare classical idiom (accusative) surviving in the Koiné rather than the genitive of time, somewhat like John 4:52; Acts 20:16 (Robertson, Grammar, p. 470f.). Indirect question with ποιαν — poian f0). [source]
Revelation 3:3 Didst hear [ηκουσας]
First aorist active indicative, the act of hearing at the time.And keep it (και τηρει — kai tērei). Present active imperative of τηρεω — tēreō “hold on to what thou hast.”And repent First aorist active imperative of μετανοεω — metanoeō “Turn at once.”If therefore thou shalt not watch (εαν ουν μη γρηγορησηις — ean oun mē grēgorēsēis). Condition of third class with εαν μη — ean mē and the first aorist (ingressive) active subjunctive of γρηγορεω — grēgoreō “if then thou do not wake up.”I will come Certainly future active here, though probably aorist subjunctive in Revelation 2:25.As a thief (ως κλεπτης — hōs kleptēs). As Jesus had already said (Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39), as Paul had said (1 Thessalonians 5:2), as Peter had said (2 Peter 3:10), as Jesus will say again (Revelation 16:15).Thou shalt not know Strong double negative ου μη — ou mē with second aorist active subjunctive of γινωσκω — ginōskō though some MSS. have the future middle indicative γνωσηι — gnōsēi hour A rare classical idiom (accusative) surviving in the Koiné rather than the genitive of time, somewhat like John 4:52; Acts 20:16 (Robertson, Grammar, p. 470f.). Indirect question with ποιαν — poian f0). [source]
Revelation 3:3 And repent [και μετανοησον]
First aorist active imperative of μετανοεω — metanoeō “Turn at once.”If therefore thou shalt not watch (εαν ουν μη γρηγορησηις — ean oun mē grēgorēsēis). Condition of third class with εαν μη — ean mē and the first aorist (ingressive) active subjunctive of γρηγορεω — grēgoreō “if then thou do not wake up.”I will come Certainly future active here, though probably aorist subjunctive in Revelation 2:25.As a thief (ως κλεπτης — hōs kleptēs). As Jesus had already said (Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39), as Paul had said (1 Thessalonians 5:2), as Peter had said (2 Peter 3:10), as Jesus will say again (Revelation 16:15).Thou shalt not know Strong double negative ου μη — ou mē with second aorist active subjunctive of γινωσκω — ginōskō though some MSS. have the future middle indicative γνωσηι — gnōsēi hour A rare classical idiom (accusative) surviving in the Koiné rather than the genitive of time, somewhat like John 4:52; Acts 20:16 (Robertson, Grammar, p. 470f.). Indirect question with ποιαν — poian f0). [source]

What do the individual words in 2 Peter 3:10 mean?

Will come however [the] day of [the] Lord like a thief in which the heavens with a roar will pass away elements then burning with heat will be dissolved and [the] earth the it works not will be found
Ἥξει δὲ ἡμέρα Κυρίου ὡς κλέπτης ἐν οἱ οὐρανοὶ ῥοιζηδὸν παρελεύσονται στοιχεῖα δὲ καυσούμενα λυθήσεται καὶ γῆ τὰ αὐτῇ ἔργα [οὐχ] εὑρεθήσεται

Ἥξει  Will  come 
Parse: Verb, Future Indicative Active, 3rd Person Singular
Root: ἥκω  
Sense: to have come, have arrived, be present.
δὲ  however 
Parse: Conjunction
Root: δέ  
Sense: but, moreover, and, etc.
ἡμέρα  [the]  day 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Feminine Singular
Root: ἡμέρα  
Sense: the day, used of the natural day, or the interval between sunrise and sunset, as distinguished from and contrasted with the night.
Κυρίου  of  [the]  Lord 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root: κύριος  
Sense: he to whom a person or thing belongs, about which he has power of deciding; master, lord.
ὡς  like 
Parse: Adverb
Root: ὡς 
Sense: as, like, even as, etc.
κλέπτης  a  thief 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: κλέπτης  
Sense: an embezzler, pilferer.
οὐρανοὶ  heavens 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Plural
Root: οὐρανός  
Sense: the vaulted expanse of the sky with all things visible in it.
ῥοιζηδὸν  with  a  roar 
Parse: Adverb
Root: ῥοιζηδόν  
Sense: with a loud noise.
παρελεύσονται  will  pass  away 
Parse: Verb, Future Indicative Middle, 3rd Person Plural
Root: παρέρχομαι  
Sense: to go past, pass by.
στοιχεῖα  elements 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Neuter Plural
Root: στοιχεῖον  
Sense: any first thing, from which the others belonging to some series or composite whole take their rise, an element, first principal.
καυσούμενα  burning  with  heat 
Parse: Verb, Present Participle Middle or Passive, Nominative Neuter Plural
Root: καυσόω  
Sense: to burn up, set fire to.
λυθήσεται  will  be  dissolved 
Parse: Verb, Future Indicative Passive, 3rd Person Singular
Root: λύω  
Sense: to loose any person (or thing) tied or fastened.
γῆ  [the]  earth 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Feminine Singular
Root: γῆ  
Sense: arable land.
ἔργα  works 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Neuter Plural
Root: ἔργον  
Sense: business, employment, that which any one is occupied.
εὑρεθήσεται  will  be  found 
Parse: Verb, Future Indicative Passive, 3rd Person Singular
Root: εὑρίσκω  
Sense: to come upon, hit upon, to meet with.