A common Biblical expression denoting the atmospheric heavens and the earth (see on Gen. 1:8; cf. 2 Peter 3:5, 7, 10, 12, 13; etc.).

 This does not mean that the earth as a planet will cease to exist, but rather that the atmospheric heavens and the surface of the earth will undergo fundamental changes. For a description of the process by which this change is to be brought about, see Isa. 34:4; Peter 3:7-13.

 See on ch. 5:18. The policies of even the greatest men of earth change, but the principles of God are steadfast forever, for God changes not (Mal. 3:6). Here, Jesus places emphasis on the certainty of what He has revealed concerning the future, particularly with respect to His coming and the end of the world (see on Matt. 24:3).