The verse 2 Peter 3:5 from the King James Version (KJV) states: "For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water."

This verse is part of a larger passage in 2 Peter 3 that addresses the issue of scoffers and their denial of the second coming of Jesus Christ. In the preceding verses, Peter reminds his audience of God's judgment in the past, specifically the judgment of the world by the flood during the time of Noah. In verse 4, Peter describes how the scoffers will mock the idea of Jesus' return and question the delay of His coming. He then follows up with verse 5 to explain that the scoffers are choosing to ignore the truth, that God's word was the creative force behind the creation of the heavens and the earth.

The verse is rich in meaning and symbolism, and it touches on several important themes in the Bible, including the power of God's word and the consequences of denying the truth.

One of the key themes present in this verse is the power of God's word. The verse emphasizes that the heavens and the earth were created by the word of God. This echoes the creation account in the book of Genesis, where God speaks the universe into existence. This theme underscores the belief in the omnipotence of God’s word and the concept of His word as a creative force. It serves as a reminder that God’s word is powerful and authoritative, and it should not be taken lightly or ignored.

Another important theme in this verse is the consequences of willingly ignoring the truth. Peter accuses the scoffers of being "willingly ignorant" of the truth. They choose to turn a blind eye to the reality of God's creative power and the coming judgment. This theme relates to the broader biblical concept of accountability and the consequences of rejecting God's truth. It serves as a warning against willful ignorance and the spiritual danger of denying God's word.

The context of this verse is also significant in understanding its meaning. Peter is writing to a group of believers who are facing persecution and false teachings. In the previous chapter, he addresses false prophets and teachers who are leading people astray with their deceptive words. The verse serves as a reminder to the believers to be wary of false teachings and to hold fast to the truth of God's word, even in the face of opposition and ridicule.

In terms of symbolism, the reference to the heavens and the earth being formed out of water and by the word of God is symbolic of the power and authority of God as the creator. The mention of the earth standing out of the water and in the water may symbolize the delicate balance and order that God established in His creation. It emphasizes the harmonious and intentional design of the world by God.

In conclusion, 2 Peter 3:5 from the King James Version carries deep spiritual, theological, and practical significance. It highlights the power of God's word in creation, the consequences of denying the truth, and the importance of holding fast to the truth in the face of opposition. It serves as a reminder to believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to be discerning of false teachings. The verse also underscores the authority and creative power of God's word and serves as a call to obediently recognize and submit to the truth of God's word.