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As if the phrase true humility toward everyone were in his mind, Paul reflects on the time prior to God’s salvation. The use of we'clearly shows that Paul includes himself. The description in 3:3 of the person without Christ vividly demonstrates why we need a Savior. Note how God’s kindness and love for all people (niv love is an inadequate translation of philanthrōpia) are exactly the right remedy. Appeared is simple past action; it has already taken place (see 2:11).
God’s appearance brought salvation on the basis of his mercy, not our righteousness. In the Greek text, “not by works of righteousness” appears first in the clause and thus receives the emphasis. Washing of rebirth may refer to baptism, but since this phrase is linked grammatically with renewal by the Holy Spirit, the figurative cleansing by the Spirit in the believer’s life is intended. Vv.5-6 clearly show the triune God in operation, God generously pouring out the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ. The result is justification—made as if we had never sinned—and inheritance of the hope of eternal life. How beautifully this hope corresponds with “the blessed hope” of 2:13. When comparing 2:11-14 with 3:3-7, we see 2:11-14 stressing the lifestyle that God desires and 3:3-7 providing the theology that backs up that lifestyle.