## However, ##

Although the Lord is being patient wants people to repent, he will return and bring judgment.

## the day of the Lord will come as a thief. ##

Just as a thief does not announce that he is coming to rob a house, Jesus will appear unannounced. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

## The heavens will pass away with a loud noise. The elements will be burned with fire ##

Loud noise and fire are vivid descriptions of the destruction of heaven and earth. It will not escape anyone's attention!

## the works in it will be judged. ##

God will judge all the good or bad things people have done.