16. How did the apostle Peter say the message of the Lord's coming would be treated by some?
“Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of His coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” 2 Peter 3:3, 4.
17. What will God's faithful servants be doing at this time?
“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?” Matt. 24:45.
Note.—The “meat in due season” here spoken of evidently refers to the proclamation of the message based upon the signs which indicate the near approach of the Lord. The preaching of this message is what causes scoffers mockingly to ask, “Where is the promise of His coming?”
18. What are all admonished to do when these signs have appeared?
“Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” Verse 44.
19. How will Christ's coming overtake those evil servants who say in their hearts, “My Lord delayeth His coming”?
“The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Verses 50, 51.