A New People Of God

Four new names are given to Christians, terms that are now even more fitting for the New Covenant people God has created.

1 Peter 2:9 ESV “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” 

The terms “chosen race,” “royal priesthood,” “holy nation” and “a people” are packed with meaning, being rooted in Old Testament history in God’s powerful dealings with Israel, most notably in their times of the Exodus and the Exile.

Exodus 19:5-6 ESV “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. . . .””Isaiah 43:20-21 ESV “. . . my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise.” 

(See related blog entries:  A New Chosen Race, A New Royal Priesthood, A New Holy Nation.) 

A New People of God


This final term is the culmination of the first three terms, “people,” meaning the People of God.  We as Christians are now part of the People of God, called out by Him as His own “treasured possession” from among all the peoples of the world to be a New People of God.

We have been chosen for a unique and personal relationship with God and for a purpose in Christ for all eternity!  Our calling out fulfills the pattern that began with the “calling out” of Abraham, the “calling out” in the Exodus, and the “calling out” from the Exile.

We read often in the Old Testament about this honor and purpose.  It reminds us who we truly and fully are in Christ.

Deuteronomy 26:18-19 ESV “And Yahweh has declared today that you are a people for his treasured possession, as he has promised you, and that you are to keep all his commandments, and that he will set you in praise and in fame and in honor high above all nations that he has made, and that you shall be a people holy to Yahweh your God, as he promised.””

Our New Purpose

The purpose of the Church is that of Isaiah 43:21, “the people whom I formed for myself, my praise they will declare (literally).”  It could only be partially fulfilled by the original recipients, those coming out of the Exile.  

This purpose of the “people” finds its fulfillment in Christ in the fulness of times in redemptive history.  It is to proclaim what He has done in calling us out of our sinful darkness into His marvelous light—the light of holiness, knowledge and salvation!

Our main purpose, reason for existence, is to proclaim the excellencies of God.  We do this first and foremost in our worship, our prayers, our evangelism and all our relationships with people—declaring the outstanding qualities of God Himself!  

Sometimes we don’t do this, we forget, and we sing praise without mentioning the full range of the attributes and works of God, or we pray staring into our needs and other’s needs, failing to look up to our God, or perhaps we evangelize expecting an affirmation and transaction, without a real spiritual vision of the beauty of Christ.  

Instead, if we start these activities (and others) with words about the glory and greatness of the Triune God Himself, the rest of the matters have a way of falling into place, becoming more meaningful, and bringing more glory to God.  We proclaim back to God His glories and our joy in who He is, and then we proclaim the same to one another and to the world.

Think about being so undeservedly honored as to be part of the “New People of God!”

A New Holy Nation

Four new names are given to Christians, terms that are now even more fitting for the New Covenant people God has created.

1 Peter 2:9 ESV “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” 

The terms “chosen race,” “royal priesthood,” “holy nation” and “a people” are packed with meaning, being rooted in Old Testament history in God’s powerful dealings with Israel, most notably in their times of the Exodus and the Exile.

Exodus 19:5-6 ESV “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. . . .”” 

Isaiah 43:20-21 ESV “. . . my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise.” 

(See related blog entries:  A New Chosen Race, A New Royal Priesthood, A New People Of God.)

A New Holy Nation

Historically, the national identity of the Hebrews was formed in their Exodus out of Egypt.  And the terms upon which it is based start in Exodus 19, with the covenant ratified in Exodus 24.  We read about its progress, undulations and decline throughout the Old Testament.

Passing over discussion of the various views on the importance of Israel’s political state today or in the future, and passing over a debate on whether it is legitimate to view any human government as Christian, we should ask ourselves “What does it mean that we as Christians now constitute a new ‘holy nation?’”

The new “holy nation” cannot be identified with any earthly human political structures.  Becoming a member of the Kingdom of God through Jesus Christ makes one a citizen of Heaven, a member of an eternal nation, one yet to ascend to prominence in this world (Philippians 3:20).  At the Return of Christ the King, we will rise and inherit our land, and the whole earth will be ours!

Our Dual Citizenship

Our national allegiance is given first and foremost to this new “holy nation.”  Our first interest is always the Kingdom of God, the welfare of the Church of God, and its progress.  

This explains why at various times in history, and even today, Christians can be accused of treason, although, Christians tend to make the best citizens within almost any political state.  We know that such fears by the people and authorities are unnecessary, for the most part; and yet, we acknowledge there is a widely mixed history within Christianity.

How we deal with our “dual citizenship,” being earthly citizens in many lands under various structures, is a subject our Apostle Peter will return to in this very letter (see 2:13-17; 3:13-17; 4:12-19).  It has always been difficult to live this out in this world, and it always will be difficult.  This will be the case at every level of personal political involvement or calling in this arena of service.

Throughout Church history there have been many examples of the extreme (e.g., violence in the name of Christ), the hasty (e.g., trying to establish the Kingdom by human political efforts ahead of schedule), the foolish (e.g. not wise in dealing with the world), the ignorant (e.g., improper use of Scripture) and the misguided (i.e., focused on wrong goals).  Likewise, there are many examples of the humble, the thoughtful, the wise, the intelligent and the faithful.  May we select our heroes, our philosophies and our politics very carefully—by being spiritually minded.  

The description “holy” focuses us on obedience to serve the new calling faithfully.  We are set apart from the ways of worldliness.  Think about how being part of the “new holy nation” raises you above worldly politics, while at the same time making you most politically useful to this world!

A New Royal Priesthood

Four new names are given to Christians, terms that are now even more fitting for the New Covenant people God has created.

1 Peter 2:9 ESV “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” 

The terms “chosen race,” “royal priesthood,” “holy nation” and “a people” are packed with meaning, being rooted in Old Testament history in God’s powerful dealings with Israel, most notably in their times of the Exodus and the Exile.

Exodus 19:5-6 ESV “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. . . .””

Isaiah 43:20-21 ESV “. . . my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise.” 

(See related blog entries:  A New Chosen Race, A New Holy Nation, A New People Of God.)

A New Royal Priesthood

Historically, the roles of king and priest were to be kept separate for the people of Israel.  However, prior to this in the time of Abraham, there was Melchizedek who served both as a king and a priest, and he holds priority over the long-standing Levitical priesthood (Hebrews 5, 7).  

Later on we read about the future, unique, powerful combining of the roles of king and priest in Psalm 110 in anticipation of the Messiah.  In verse 4 it is declared, “You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.”  Additionally we are given the examples of kings David and Solomon, both of whom on occasion served minor priestly functions; together they give us a glorious preview of the coming Christ, our Lord Jesus.

On top of that, the “royal priesthood” was a role the whole Old Covenant people of God were to play--sometimes they did well, sometimes not so well.  But now, in the New Covenant, the people of God play the role much better, being empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Here is yet another way we are made like Christ--sharing in His royalty and priestliness.  See Jeremiah 33, especially verses 14-18, and then verse 22, “As the host of heaven cannot be numbered and the sands of the sea cannot be measured, so I will multiply the offspring of David my servant, and the Levitical priests who minister to me.”  

Our royal priesthood, however, is a derived one, coming from our relationship to the King of the universe.  And we live to serve Him and His interests and His eternal Kingdom.

Revelation 5:9-10 ESV “And they [angels] sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are you [Jesus Christ] to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.””

Moreover, the significance of the “royal priesthood” role has grown much larger in the fuller purposes of God now revealed.  Our mediatorial role for the nations and peoples of the world is to bring them the Gospel of Christ and His Kingdom (Romans 15:16)!

Our Three Dimensional Priesthood

1. We offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable through Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:4-5).  These include cooperating with all the influences of the Holy Spirit in our lives, and giving Him all the glory for the transformations He has worked and is still working in our lives.
2. We serve one another in the church, praying for and ministering to one another.  We need one another.  The well-known phrase “priesthood of all believers” is not about the removal of authority structures in church, which would be a great misunderstanding, but about our serving one another and using our spiritual gifts.
3. We exist for the benefit of the world.  We alone have access to the One True and Living God because of the Lord Christ.  We declare His Gospel and live it out.  And we seek to bless the world in a multitude of wonderful ways because of receiving such a blessing.

Saint Augustine wrote, “In ancient times only one high priest was anointed, but now all Christians are anointed.”  Think about the extraordinary honor, along with the expectations of the duty, of belonging to this “new royal priesthood!”

A New Chosen Race

Four new names are given to Christians, terms that are now even more fitting for the New Covenant people God has created.

1 Peter 2:9 ESV “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” 

The terms “chosen race,” “royal priesthood,” “holy nation” and “a people” are packed with meaning, being rooted in Old Testament history in God’s powerful dealings with Israel, most notably in their times of the Exodus and the Exile.

Exodus 19:5-6 ESV “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. . . .””

Isaiah 43:20-21 ESV “. . . my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise.”

(See related blog entries:  A New Royal Priesthood, A New Holy Nation, A New People Of God.)

A New Chosen Race

Historically, the term “race” is referring to the physical descendants of Abraham.  Likewise, the “chosen” special people is referring to Israelites called out in the Exodus.

The new historical reality in the fullness of time in Christ is that a new “chosen race” would be formed.  This “race,” if you will, would eventually be made up of many from all racial groups throughout the world.  This “chosen” group would similarly be set apart from rest of humanity--called out for a purpose.

The term “chosen race” is such a wonderful term, although it sounds politically volatile and socially dangerous.  But, then again, maybe herein resides some of its power; and it is a power for all sorts of good in our world.

Ultimately, the only real cure to end the evils of racism in our world is in Christ Jesus the Lord.  So much of this can be observed today as Christians are making enormous progress in so many parts of the world working out the details in the real strife of life.

Back to the main point, which is that as believers in Christ we have so much in common, our bond is so tight in Holy Spirit, that it is as though we really are a new “race” of people in world.  We share a common heritage in the line of the faith of Abraham and the obedience of Moses.  Ultimately this identity is what matters before God Almighty, we are “neither Jew nor Gentile . . . Christ’s . . . Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.” (Galatians 3)

Our New Calling

What is our reason for existence as this new chosen race?  It is to declare the greatness of the One True God who has performed such an amazing feat as actually forming a new spiritual race of people!  

Think about the strong bond of unity we share as Christians regardless of our almost endless variety of backgrounds, how we actually have so much in common.  Take time to recall your own experience of being “called out of darkness into His marvelous light.”  

May our awareness of our new identity in Christ energize us to proclaim the excellencies of our eternally blessed and glorious Triune God! 

Avoid Questions Using Superlatives

What is the best and most effective way to reach the world for Christ?

I hope you do not have an answer to this question, because there is not one best way.  There never has been and never will be.

Broad Questions Lead to Generalizations 

In our churches we are fond of asking questions such as:  What is the most effective system for church planting in India?  What is the greatest need of the church in China today?  What is the best approach to evangelize Muslims?  What is the prime strategy to bring about cultural transformation in the United States?  Which tactic will end human trafficking most quickly?  What is the key biblical practice for successful mission? 

At first these sound like great questions.  We hope we will get clear answers quickly so we can take them and run!  We can sign up for the best program, or pump funds into the most effective ministry.  And we can stop doing and supporting all those ministries that now appear obviously no longer “the best and most effective” ones.

But the questions are misleading, and usually if answers are given they are likewise misleading.  There is no secret formula, or one-size-fits-all solution, or silver bullet to finish the task.  At least we ought to realize that rarely, if ever, are such large and complex tasks so easily understood, answered and achieved.

This is not to say that we shouldn’t think in more general terms and systems, and even have preferred methods.  Broad thinking and deep analysis are needed, of course.  However, when asking questions seeking to find basically one brief answer, we are being simplistic.

Specific Questions Lead to Better Application

Questions with superlatives are unhelpful because they exaggerate comparisons and result in superficial conclusions.  It is not very constructive for church leaders or mission leadership teams to be thinking in this way.  They will not be able to procure the answers we desire and the ones we really need to move forward in mission focus and increasing our impact.

Hopefully the reason we ask so many questions about mission is because we want to learn and grow, not to have pat answers to tough questions, and ultimately to become more effective in our ministry and mission fields.

What is missing?  Context.  Context is where we will find the answers.  Each location and its circumstances is unique.  There are so many variables that it is impossible to find a best approach to succeed in them all.  Each place varies by its culture, its people, its realities of life, and so much more, and even by those serving the Gospel in that specific place.  

Mission is always carried out in a distinct context.  It will be helpful to customize our questions by adding specificity to our broad concerns.  We might begin by asking those closest to our place of interest to provide further definition of their ministry environment.  Then, we can ask intelligent and strategic questions, tailored to the situation.  This will be a more profitable discussion.  

Churches that have identified their calling for a global mission focus will ask better questions.  They probably have discovered many answers on their own simply by being personally engaged in the work.  And most likely they have been pleasantly surprised to learn that many methods work best; it just depends . . .