Peter has already used the subject of life throughout his letter to refer to Jesus. He called him the living hope (1:3), the living word (1:23), and now he calls him the living stone (2:4). Using a stone to explain Jesus is unique because this particular stone is living and gives life to others. The illustration of a stone seems to indicate a foundation which is found in Him, giving life to those who are dead in sin. Now those who have faith in Jesus Christ become living stones which are “being built up [as] a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices [good works] acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (2:5). Through Jesus we have received life and are now living out the life He has given us before the world around us. Peter then turns his attention to the Old Testament where he cites several scriptures as proof that Jesus Christ is the foundational stone and will save those who believe in Him or destroy those who reject him (2:6-8). Peter then directly addresses his readers with some powerful words about their life in Christ: “you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy” (2:9-10). I would challenge you to go back and read that again. What a wonderful thought that we are God’s people and He has chosen us to declare His glory to all people. Peter knew these people were experiencing trials, but He wanted them to trust in Jesus Christ, the Living Stone, who had chosen them to be His people and entrusted them with sharing His goodness and mercy.
Dear God, I pray that as a part of Your people I will declare Your goodness and glory among all the world.
