A ROYAL PRIESTHOOD
1 Peter 2:4-10
Key Verse: 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
Read verses 4-5. What does “As you come to him” imply? What does Jesus’ name “living Stone” tell us about him and his role in the “spiritual house” that God is building? Why do you think Peter describes Jesus as “rejected by humans but chosen by God”?
In what sense are those who come to Jesus “living stones,” and how does God use them (5)? What is God’s amazing plan for believers who are rejected by humans (Eph 2:20-22)? What does “a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices” mean?
How does Peter support his teaching about Jesus and believers (6-8)? Why does Peter describe Jesus as a cornerstone? What are the two responses to this stone, and the outcome of each response?
Read verse 9. How does Peter affirm the believers’ new identity? What is the significance of: “chosen people,” “royal priesthood,” “holy nation” and “God’s special possession” (Ex 19:5-6; Dt 10:15; Rev 1:6)? Why does Peter emphasize their identity in this way?
What is God’s purpose in calling all believers (9b)? Why is it important to remember who we were, and are now, regarding God’s grace of calling (10)? How can we overcome rejection, misunderstanding and trials as we serve God’s purpose in our mission field?