This research paper by Ryan Richardson, submitted to Dr. Michael Kruger for NT522 – Hebrews to Revelation at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, investigates the manuscript variations in 2 Peter 3:10 to uncover what truly happens to “the works of the world” on the Day of the Lord. Richardson compares major Greek readings such as κατακαήσεται (“will be burned up”) and εὑρεθήσεται (“will be found”) to determine the most authentic text.
Through detailed evaluation of external and internal evidence—including early manuscripts, church fathers, and scribal tendencies—Richardson argues that εὑρεθήσεται is the best-supported reading. While more difficult grammatically, it aligns with early witnesses like Codex Vaticanus and II Clement and fits Petrine theology emphasizing divine judgment and revelation. He concludes that the verse depicts not annihilation but the exposure of every human deed before God.
The paper closes by showing how this interpretation highlights God’s active role in judgment. Rather than portraying a purely destructive apocalypse, Richardson contends that the passage reveals a moral unveiling: God will “find” and judge all works, purifying creation and affirming His justice. Believers are thus called to holiness, that they may be “found” righteous when Christ returns.
Course and semester: NT522 Hebrews–Revelation — Spring 2017
