1 Peter 2:9-10 — Grandeur of the Church
Read
1 Peter 2:9-10
EXPLORE
Compare the language of v.9-10 to Exodus 19:1-6. Why do you think Peter references what God told the Israelites in Exodus 19?
Read the identity of who we are as believers: chosen race, royal priesthood, holy nation, God’s [treasured] possession, once you hadn’t received mercy but now you have received mercy
Are these descriptors corporate or individual? What difference does this make?
What does each description mean? (ex. What does it mean that you’re a royal priest?)
In light of this splendid identity, what does Peter say the purpose of the church is?
Is the word “called” in v.9b describing a mere invitation or something performative (i.e. it effects what it says). What difference does this make?
What impact do you think these two verses had on Peter’s original readers who were suffering and written off as nobodies by their society?
Apply
When you view your church family members as royal priests and God’s treasured possession, how does this change how you think about and pursue them? How does this identity change how you think about yourself?
How does the church’s identity and purpose shape not only your view of the church, but your participation in it?
How does the phrase “that you may proclaim the excellencies…” serve as a helpful corrective to the oft-repeated sentiment “preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words” ?
Does it change your approach to evangelism and discipleship to know at the heart of what you’re called to do is “declare God’s excellencies” ?
How can our church better embody our identity of holy nation? Of royal priesthood?
Pray
for one another, our church, our city