⁵ But they deliberately forget that long ago by God’s word^(A) the heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water and by water.^{(B) 6} By these waters also the world of that time^(C) was deluged and destroyed.^{(D) 7} By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire,^(E) being kept for the day of judgment^(F) and destruction of the ungodly.

¹¹ Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives ¹² as you look forward^(A) to the day of God and speed its coming.^[a](B) That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat.^{(C) 13} But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth,^(D) where righteousness dwells.