2 Peter 3:13

2 Peter 3:13 ‘But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and. new earth, in which righteousness dwells.'

‘But' -The positive results of that day, in contrast to the destruction of this planet, the entire universe, and the wicked.

‘according to His promise' -That is, the promise to come, the promise which includes the complete destruction of the present universe (2 Peter 3:4).

‘we' -Peter is eagerly awaiting the final judgment, just as much as any other Christian!

‘looking for' -Emphasizing the expectant attitude that should exist among Christians. And it also stresses what should be the object of our goals, desires and affections (Colossians 3:1). This world isn't our home! (Hebrews 11:16)

‘new heavens and. new earth' -Let it be noted that the previous verses completely rule out the idea that the heavens and earth in this verse are simply the old heavens and earth which have been cleansed. ‘new'-Not in the sense of ‘new in time' or recent, but new as to form or quality, of different nature from what is considered as old. ‘The new order of things here contemplated by Peter composed of new heavens and. new earth is different in quality, kind, and nature to the first order which is to be consumed by fire and melted into dissolution.' (Hamilton p. 255)

‘in which righteousness dwells' -Or where righteousness has it's home. The idea of permanence and persuasive influence. There will be no unrighteousness in the new heavens and new earth (1 Peter 1:4; Revelation 21:4; Revelation 21:27)

Points To Note:

‘Several commentators believe that Isaiah 2:17; Isaiah 2:22 envisioned this new order….he says that Peter's wording is borrowed from Isaiah….Isaiah's prophecy is about the new order of things which is the current period of regeneration, not the new order of which Peter is writing..' (Hamilton p. 256) 2. Peter, as well as John have the new heavens and the new earth happening immediately after the destruction of the present heavens and earth (Revelation 20:10; Revelation 21:1). ‘ Revelation 20:10 clearly shows this to be the case and 2 Peter 3:1 clearly shows that the second advent of Christ will immediately be in connection with the resurrection and the judgment. There is no thousand year period and. little while between the advent of Christ, the resurrection of the wicked, and the final judgment as some are wont to say.' (Hamilton p. 256)