What is the context?
Peter turns the promise of coming judgment into a direct question about daily life. Knowing that the present order will pass away should lead to holiness and devotion to God. His concern is the kind of people his readers become while they wait.
The hope reaches beyond destruction: God promises a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells. Isaiah 65:17–19 already speaks of new heavens and a new earth in connection with joy in what God creates.
The Greek word translated elements can refer to the basic constituents of the world; Thayer lists these verses under that meaning. Peter’s language describes creation under God’s judgment without explaining a modern physical process.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Calvin understands the fire as cleansing and renewing creation. The Catholic Church likewise teaches a transformation of the visible universe while acknowledging that its manner and timing are unknown; see Catechism 1042–1048. Calvin’s published commentary also includes an editor’s note cautioning that the promise of a new creation does not by itself settle whether the present creation is renewed. That note is the editor’s observation, rather than Calvin’s own conclusion.
The word translated hasten in verse 12 also receives different explanations. Calvin emphasizes eager, active waiting; Wesley connects it with earnest desire and prayer. The USCCB note also considers conduct helping bring the promised day. Thayer lists earnest desire as the word’s sense here. These explanations agree that waiting should shape life now, while differing over how that waiting relates to the day’s arrival.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Revelation 21:1–8 develops the same new-creation hope. God dwells with His people, wipes away their tears and brings an end to death and pain. The holy city is pictured as a bride prepared for her husband. This is more than escape from a damaged world: it is life with God in the creation He makes new, with His people belonging to Him.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.