Charles Ellicott Commentary 2 Peter 3:13

"But, according to his promise, we look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness." — 2 Peter 3:13 (ASV)

Nevertheless we, according to his promise.—“Nevertheless” is too strong, and the emphasis is on “new,” not on “we.” But new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells, we look for, according to His promise .

On the repetition of “look for,” three times in three verses, see above on 2 Peter 2:7. The promise of the new heavens and new earth is given in Isaiah 65:17; Isaiah 66:22.

There are two words for “new” in Greek: one looks forward, meaning “young” as opposed to “aged”; the other looks back, meaning “fresh” as opposed to “worn out.” It is the latter word that is used here and in Revelation 21:1-2. Both are used in Matthew 9:17, but the distinction is not marked in our version—They put new wine into fresh wine-skins.

In which righteousness dwells.—Compare to Isaiah 65:25; Revelation 21:27. Righteousness has its home there; it is not a wanderer and changeable guest, as on earth. Therefore, by righteousness you must make yourselves worthy of entering there.

With this whole verse compare 1 Peter 1, where (2 Peter 3:4) a similar thought is expressed with equal beauty, and where (2 Peter 3:13) a similar conclusion is drawn from it. (See next verse.)