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.

¹⁴ So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless^(E) and at peace with him. ¹⁵ Bear in mind that our Lord’s patience^(F) means salvation,^(G) just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him.^(H)

¹⁷ Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard^(A) so that you may not be carried away by the error^(B) of the lawless^(C) and fall from your secure position.^{(D) 18} But grow in the grace^(E) and knowledge^(F) of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.^(G) To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.^(H)