1 Peter 2:9
Verse
Context
The Living Stone and Chosen People
8and, “A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” They stumble because they disobey the word—and to this they were appointed.9But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. 10Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye are a chosen generation - The titles formerly given to the whole Jewish Church, i.e. to all the Israelites without exception, all who were in the covenant of God by circumcision, whether they were holy persons or not, are here given to Christians in general in the same way; i.e. to all who believed in Christ, whether Jews or Gentiles, and who received baptism in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. The Israelites were a chosen or elected race, to be a special people unto the Lord their God, above all people that were upon the face of the earth, Deu 7:6. They were also a royal priesthood, or what Moses calls a kingdom of priests, Exo 19:6. For all were called to sacrifice to God; and he is represented to be the King of that people, and Father of those of whom he was king; therefore they were all royal. They were a holy nation, Exo 19:6; for they were separated from all the people of the earth, that they might worship the one only true God, and abstain from the abominations that were in the heathen world. They were also a peculiar people, λαος εις περιποιησιν, a purchased people; סגלה segullah, a private property, belonging to God Almighty, Deu 7:6; none other having any right in them, and they being under obligation to God alone. All these things the apostle applies to the Christians, to whom indeed they belong, in their spirit and essence, in such a way as they could not belong to the Hebrews of old. But they were called to this state of salvation out of darkness - idolatry, superstition, and ungodliness, into his marvellous light - the Gospel dispensation, which, in reference to the discoveries it had made of God, his nature, will, and gracious promises towards mankind, differed as much from the preceding dispensation of the Jews, as the light of the meridian sun from the faint twinkling of a star. And they had these privileges that they might show forth the praises of Him who had thus called them; αρετας, the virtues, those perfections of the wisdom, justice, truth, and goodness of God, that shone most illustriously in the Christian dispensation. These they were to exhibit in a holy and useful life, being transformed into the image of God, and walking as Christ himself walked.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Contrast in the privileges and destinies of believers. Compare the similar contrast with the preceding context. chosen--"elect" of God, even as Christ your Lord is. generation--implying the unity of spiritual origin and kindred of believers as a class distinct from the world. royal--kingly. Believers, like Christ, the antitypical Melchisedec, are at once kings and priests. Israel, in a spiritual sense, was designed to be the same among the nations of the earth. The full realization on earth of this, both to the literal and the spiritual Israel, is as yet future. holy nation--antitypical to Israel. peculiar people--literally, "a people for an acquisition," that is, whom God chose to be peculiarly His: Act 20:28, "purchased," literally, "acquired." God's "peculiar treasure" above others. show forth--publish abroad. Not their own praises but His. They have no reason to magnify themselves above others for once they had been in the same darkness, and only through God's grace had been brought to the light which they must henceforth show forth to others. praises--Greek, "virtues," "excellencies": His glory, mercy (Pe1 2:10), goodness (Greek, Pe1 2:3; Num 14:17-18; Isa 63:7). The same term is applied to believers, Pe2 1:5. of him who hath called you-- (Pe2 1:3). out of darkness--of heathen and even Jewish ignorance, sin, and misery, and so out of the dominion of the prince of darkness. marvellous--Peter still has in mind Psa 118:23. light--It is called "His," that is, God's. Only the (spiritual) light is created by God, not darkness. In Isa 45:7, it is physical darkness and evil, not moral, that God is said to create, the punishment of sin, not sin itself. Peter, with characteristic boldness, brands as darkness what all the world calls light; reason, without the Holy Spirit, in spite of its vaunted power, is spiritual darkness. "It cannot apprehend what faith is: there it is stark blind; it gropes as one that is without eyesight, stumbling from one thing to another, and knows not what it does" [LUTHER].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which in time were not a people,.... A "Loammi" being put upon them; see Hos 1:9 to which the apostle here refers: God's elect, whether among Jews or Gentiles, were, from eternity, his chosen people, and his covenant people; and, as such, were given to Christ, and they became his people, and his care and charge; and he saved them by his obedience, sufferings, and death, and redeemed them to himself, a peculiar people: but then, before conversion, they are not a people formed by God for himself, and his praise; nor Christ's willing people, either to be saved by him, or to serve him; nor are they, nor can they be truly known by themselves, or others, to be the people of God: the Syriac version gives the true sense of the phrase, by rendering it "these who before were not" "reckoned or accounted a people"; that is, by others: but are now the people of God; being regenerated, called, and sanctified, they are avouched by God to be his people; they have the witness of the Spirit to their spirits, that they are the people of God; they can then claim their relation to God, and are known, acknowledged, and called the people of God, by others: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy; being called formerly, Loruhamah, Hos 1:6 which passages the apostle has in view: before conversion there is mercy in God's heart towards his elect, and so there is in the covenant of grace, and which was shown in the provision of his Son, as a Saviour, in the mission of him, and redemption by him; but this is not manifested to them, until they are begotten again, according to abundant mercy, and then they obtain mercy; having in their regeneration an evident display of the mercy of God towards them, and an application of his pardoning grace and mercy, through the blood of his Son, unto them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:9 Peter applies descriptions of the Israelites in the Old Testament (see, e.g., Exod 19:5-6) to his primarily Gentile audience, indicating that they—like all Christians—are truly God’s people in the new covenant era.
1 Peter 2:9
The Living Stone and Chosen People
8and, “A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” They stumble because they disobey the word—and to this they were appointed.9But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. 10Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Israel in the Last Days
By Derek Prince15K1:17:46Last DaysMAT 7:211PE 2:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of aligning with God's purpose for Israel. He urges believers to bless and not curse Israel, as shown in Numbers 23 with the story of Balaam. The speaker highlights several predictions about Israel's future, including the gathering of all nations against Jerusalem, a supernatural revelation of Jesus as Messiah to the people of Israel, and the return of the Messiah to establish His kingdom on earth. The sermon concludes with the reminder that those who do the will of God abide forever and are unshakable.
Evan Roberts Preaching in 1905
By Evan Roberts4.7K00:11Our Response to GodGod's Glory1CH 16:8PSA 96:3PSA 145:3ISA 43:7MAT 5:16ROM 12:1COL 3:23HEB 13:151PE 2:9REV 4:11Evan Roberts reflects on the glorious deeds of God, emphasizing that no amount of time could fully express His greatness. He challenges the congregation to consider what they offer to God in return for His blessings and grace. The sermon serves as a reminder of God's eternal presence and the importance of our response to His love and mercy.
A Look at the Puritan Through Puritan Eyes
By J.I. Packer4.6K48:49ROM 14:51CO 10:31EPH 5:15COL 2:81TI 4:12JAS 4:171PE 2:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Carter, who played a central role in the next chapter of the story. The sermon is divided into three paragraphs: the leaders, the arguments, and the activities of the Puritan Presbyterianising movement. The speaker mentions that Carter and Field were imprisoned for writing a seditious document, which will be discussed in more detail in the next class. The sermon also mentions Elizabeth instructing Parker to enforce conformity in the Church of England, leading to some clergymen being deprived of their living for refusing to comply.
Christ - Part 1 (Compilation)
By Compilations4.4K04:24CompilationMRK 16:15LUK 9:23ACT 1:8ROM 12:11CO 9:16GAL 2:201PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency and purpose of the Christian mission. He calls for radical devotion to God and a willingness to leave everything behind to follow Jesus. The preacher challenges the traditional concept of church and emphasizes the importance of being the church and living out the will of God. He encourages believers to consecrate themselves afresh and to make a difference in the world by setting it on fire with the message of the gospel. The sermon draws inspiration from the revolutionary nature of Jesus and his mission to establish the kingdom of God and overcome the powers of darkness.
Intercession in Prayer
By Paris Reidhead4.2K41:26IntercessionMAT 9:38EPH 2:61TI 1:20HEB 10:19JAS 5:161PE 2:9REV 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of intercession and prayer in the mission of spreading the word of God. The key message is that the responsibility to pray for laborers to be sent into the harvest rests with the church. The speaker highlights that although God has already done so much for humanity, including sending his son for redemption, he still requires the church to intercede and pray for laborers. The sermon concludes with a call for believers to commit to the ministry of intercession, as it has the power to transform the world.
The Fire of God
By Art Katz4.0K1:22:28Fire Of GodJHN 14:6ACT 9:15ROM 11:291CO 1:18EPH 2:81TI 2:51PE 2:9In this sermon transcript, the speaker describes a series of university meetings where he preached the gospel. Despite facing opposition and being seen as a traitor by some, the speaker boldly proclaimed the message of Jesus Christ. The power of the Holy Spirit was evident as the speaker shared the gospel, leading to conversions and confrontations with those who opposed him. The speaker also mentions a specific incident where he was asked to debate a professor of comparative religion, and despite feeling inadequate, he experienced God's power and saw the impact of his message.
The Ministry of Beholding His Face
By David Wilkerson4.0K56:39MAT 24:33ROM 12:22CO 3:172TI 4:1JAS 1:221PE 2:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God in a world that is watching. He refers to 2 Timothy 4:1-5, where Paul charges Timothy to preach the word and make full proof of his ministry. The speaker shares a powerful example of a woman who, despite her physical ailments, radiates peace and joy, attracting the attention of others, including a Jewish doctor. The speaker urges listeners to be mindful of how they react in difficult situations, as their actions can serve as a testimony to the world. He also acknowledges the fear and despair that many people are experiencing, but reminds believers that they have a blessed hope in Christ and do not sorrow as the world sorrows.
Why Church? God's Purpose
By Francis Chan3.7K47:21ChurchEXO 25:22MAT 5:141CO 3:161CO 12:27EPH 4:16HEB 10:241PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the Bible beyond individual salvation. He uses the illustration of playing blackjack to highlight how often we focus only on our own relationship with God, rather than working collectively as a body of believers. The preacher also mentions the work of Children's Hunger Fund and their mercy networks, where supplies are sent to churches in need. He shares his admiration for a student who preached about the issue of isolation and the importance of community in helping those in need.
Amazing Love Profile of the Hymn
By William MacDonald2.9K34:20HymnologyGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 8:12ACT 26:182CO 4:6EPH 5:141PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the state of a soul without Jesus Christ, describing it as being imprisoned, in bondage, and in shame. He emphasizes that being unsaved is actually a form of slavery to sin, Satan, and self. The preacher then highlights the transformative power of the gospel, using the example of Charles Wesley's experience. Wesley's spiritual awakening is likened to a dungeon being flooded with light, and his chains of sin falling off, resulting in a heart set free to please God. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of responding to the gospel invitation and following Jesus.
The Local Church 1 - Part 3
By William MacDonald2.8K08:31MAT 18:20ACT 2:421CO 12:12EPH 4:11PHP 1:1COL 3:161TI 3:1HEB 10:241PE 2:9This sermon discusses the wisdom of God in not having denominational headquarters, highlighting how it hinders government control and the spread of error. It emphasizes the importance of local churches being independent and representative of the universal church, composed of saints, elders, and deacons, engaging in activities like the Apostles' Doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers. The sermon also stresses that the church is not meant to be an amusement center but a fellowship of forgiven sinners, injecting light and life into a dark world.
Personal Testimony - Part 3
By Milton Green2.7K14:43PSA 40:2COL 1:13HEB 4:151PE 1:31PE 2:91PE 2:241PE 3:15This sermon shares a powerful testimony of transformation and redemption, highlighting the journey from a place of deep despair and self-condemnation to experiencing God's grace and becoming a new creation in Christ. It emphasizes the profound impact of surrendering to God, receiving His mercy and grace, and being transformed by His love. The speaker's testimony reflects a life changed by faith, humility, and a desire to serve others, ultimately finding purpose and joy in sharing the message of God's grace and redemption.
The Scandal of Specificity
By Art Katz2.6K1:27:55SpecificityMAT 6:33ROM 8:191PE 2:9REV 5:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses the state of the world and the predicament faced by Jews and Israel. He emphasizes the need to rely on God's wisdom rather than human intelligence. The speaker shares a personal experience of being confronted with the story of the woman taken in adultery from the New Testament, which challenged his previous beliefs. He then references the Song of Moses in Deuteronomy and reflects on the urgency of the times and his own journey of surrendering worldly possessions for a life dedicated to God's calling.
Testimony
By Brother Yun2.6K39:39PSA 107:13MAT 17:20JHN 8:36JHN 11:25ACT 16:25ROM 8:372CO 3:172CO 12:9EPH 6:121PE 2:9This sermon features Brother Yun, a Chinese Christian leader who endured persecution, imprisonment, and miraculous interventions by Jesus. Despite challenges, he emphasizes the power of Jesus' love and the impact of prayer and faith in overcoming obstacles. The message highlights the transformational power of Jesus in setting people free from various forms of bondage and bringing healing and salvation to individuals and nations.
(Pdf Book) the Royal Priesthood
By Basilea Schlink2.4K00:00EbooksBlessing OthersPriestly MinistryNUM 6:272CH 30:27ISA 59:2MAT 5:21MRK 11:25PHP 2:17JAS 5:161PE 2:91JN 3:22REV 1:6Basilea Schlink emphasizes the significance of the priestly ministry of blessing, illustrating how blessings can transform lives, as exemplified by Father Bodelschwingh's blessing of a child. She highlights that as members of the royal priesthood, Christians are called to bless others rather than criticize, and that true blessings come from a life of holiness and repentance. Schlink warns against the hindrances to effective prayer and blessing, urging believers to cleanse themselves daily to fulfill their priestly duties with authority. The sermon calls for a return to a life of sacrificial love and intercession, reflecting the heart of Jesus in a world in need of salvation. Ultimately, she challenges the church to rise up as a royal priesthood, ready to bless and intercede for a world facing divine judgment.
Nature and Purpose of the Church Now and in the After Ages
By T. Austin-Sparks2.4K1:17:22Eternal PurposeGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:4ACT 26:182CO 4:6EPH 5:81PE 2:9In this sermon, T. Austin Sparks discusses the great transition from one humanity to another in the divine economy. He emphasizes the importance of having a heavenly vision, as Apostle Paul did, which reveals the place and destiny of man, the nature and dynamic of ministry, the nature and purpose of the Church, and the significance of Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, and exaltation. Sparks emphasizes that true ministry is centered on Christ and that people should encounter Christ when they meet a minister. He also highlights the importance of personally seeing Jesus in order to truly understand the Church.
Responsibility of Man
By Manley Beasley2.2K53:11Responsibility of ManSpiritual MaturityResponsibility of BelieversMAT 28:19ROM 10:141CO 3:11CO 6:192CO 6:2GAL 6:7EPH 4:142TI 2:2JAS 1:221PE 2:9Manley Beasley emphasizes the responsibility of man in relation to God's sovereignty, urging Christians to recognize that today is the day of salvation. He reflects on the immaturity within the Corinthian church, highlighting how their self-serving actions hindered the work of God. Beasley challenges believers to grow spiritually and to understand their role in sharing the gospel, stressing that the urgency of salvation should not be overlooked. He illustrates the importance of living a life that honors God rather than indulging in personal desires, as this impacts future generations. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to God that transcends mere religious activity, urging believers to actively participate in God's mission.
Levitical Ministry - Part 3of4
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K40:12MinistryMAL 3:1MAT 6:33EPH 5:27TIT 2:141PE 2:9REV 1:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the nature and purpose of the ministry of preaching the word of God. They emphasize the importance of understanding and redefining the ministry in order to fulfill the Lord's desires. The speaker refers to passages from the book of Malachi and the letter to Titus to highlight the coming of the Lord and the need for purification and redemption. They also mention the various ministries that have taken place in different parts of the world throughout the year.
Fren-05 Message for Ywam
By Art Katz2.0K1:06:45Prophetic MessagePSA 118:22ISA 53:1MAT 24:14ACT 11:26ROM 10:151PE 2:92PE 3:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses the cataclysmic event of the earth being burned and consumed, as described in the Bible. The speaker emphasizes the importance of conducting oneself with piety and good behavior in light of this impending event. The sermon also references Matthew 24, where Jesus is asked about the sign of his coming, and highlights the significance of the gospel being preached to all nations before the end comes. The speaker then discusses the role of para-church organizations in filling a void and the importance of the church being a true witness and sending body.
(Through the Bible) 1 Peter 1-2
By Chuck Smith2.0K1:32:27ISA 53:6ACT 26:18ROM 8:141PE 1:31PE 2:21PE 2:91PE 2:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of partaking in the Word of God. He explains that relying solely on one's own strength and knowledge will leave them weak and unprepared for trials. However, by immersing oneself in the Word and understanding the goodness and graciousness of God, they will be strengthened and equipped to face challenges. The speaker expresses joy in witnessing new believers eagerly devouring the Word and encourages the audience to desire the sincere milk of the Word for spiritual growth. He concludes by reminding them of their purpose to show forth the praises of God through their lives, as they have been called out of darkness into His marvelous light.
The Law of Christ 1 of 3
By Charles Leiter2.0K44:14JER 31:31MAT 6:33ROM 13:81CO 9:19GAL 5:14JAS 2:81PE 2:9In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the parable of the vineyard from Matthew 21. He explains that the problem was that the owner of the vineyard sent slaves to collect produce, but they received nothing. This parallels the repeated rejection of God's messengers by Israel. The speaker then highlights that Jesus, as the Son, was also rejected and crucified by those who knew who He was. The sermon emphasizes that throughout history, God has been moving towards the culmination of all things in Christ, starting from the promise made in Genesis 3. The speaker also mentions the law of Moses, which was given to show humanity their sinfulness and need for a Savior, ultimately leading to the reality of Christ.
Jesus as the Son of Man
By Manley Beasley2.0K1:05:41Humanity Of JesusMAT 6:33PHP 2:121PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal story about leading a young boy to the Lord who unfortunately passed away. The preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and the impact one person can have on others. He encourages believers to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, highlighting the unity of their position in Christ and the reality of their lives. The preacher also discusses the story of Jesus feeding the crowd with only a few fish and loaves of bread, emphasizing the need to rely on God's power rather than our own abilities.
Perfection in Faith
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K35:52MAT 6:33HEB 10:1HEB 10:14HEB 10:221PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being set apart for God's service. He explains that even though believers may not physically wear priestly garments, they should still consider themselves as priests unto God. The preacher also discusses how God uses imperfect individuals for His work, but only after they have been made perfect through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He further explores the concept of sanctification and how believers are chosen and set apart as God's instruments. The sermon concludes by discussing the need for perfection and how Christ's sacrifice brings about this perfection in believers.
Americas Evidence for Salvation
By Bob Utley1.9K04:47MAT 5:16MAT 7:21JAS 1:221PE 2:9This sermon challenges the notion that mere religious actions or events are enough to have a relationship with God. It emphasizes the need for genuine personal commitment, active involvement in spreading the Gospel, and living out one's faith consistently in all aspects of life. The speaker highlights the importance of being the true representation of Jesus in the world, rather than just going through religious motions.
Recovery - Part 1 of 4
By T. Austin-Sparks1.9K54:05RecoveryMAT 6:33ACT 15:14EPH 2:19HEB 4:121PE 2:9REV 21:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the book of Nehemiah and its significance in the history of God's people. The book is divided into three main sections, each representing a different aspect of the people's journey. Firstly, it highlights the loss of influence due to the people's lack of spirituality and their adoption of worldly values. Secondly, it covers a period of captivity and discipline, with the aim of recovering what was lost. Thirdly, it focuses on the return of a remnant of God's people, who embody the intended testimony of His people in the world. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a people called out by God and the powerful influence they can have among the nations when in right relationship with Him. The sermon encourages listeners to have a mind to work and to devote themselves to God's purpose, as seen in the book of Nehemiah.
World-Changer by Micheal Brown
By Micheal L. Brown1.8K05:23PSA 37:4PRO 4:18ISA 41:10MAT 5:16PHP 1:61TH 5:17HEB 12:1JAS 4:81PE 2:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of seizing the opportunity to live a life that counts for God, to let our light shine in darkness, and to seek after Him wholeheartedly. It challenges listeners to prioritize God above all else, to pursue His will, and to trust in His promises for a bright future. The message encourages a life of passion, purity, and perseverance in faith, knowing that God will bring His work to completion in us.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye are a chosen generation - The titles formerly given to the whole Jewish Church, i.e. to all the Israelites without exception, all who were in the covenant of God by circumcision, whether they were holy persons or not, are here given to Christians in general in the same way; i.e. to all who believed in Christ, whether Jews or Gentiles, and who received baptism in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. The Israelites were a chosen or elected race, to be a special people unto the Lord their God, above all people that were upon the face of the earth, Deu 7:6. They were also a royal priesthood, or what Moses calls a kingdom of priests, Exo 19:6. For all were called to sacrifice to God; and he is represented to be the King of that people, and Father of those of whom he was king; therefore they were all royal. They were a holy nation, Exo 19:6; for they were separated from all the people of the earth, that they might worship the one only true God, and abstain from the abominations that were in the heathen world. They were also a peculiar people, λαος εις περιποιησιν, a purchased people; סגלה segullah, a private property, belonging to God Almighty, Deu 7:6; none other having any right in them, and they being under obligation to God alone. All these things the apostle applies to the Christians, to whom indeed they belong, in their spirit and essence, in such a way as they could not belong to the Hebrews of old. But they were called to this state of salvation out of darkness - idolatry, superstition, and ungodliness, into his marvellous light - the Gospel dispensation, which, in reference to the discoveries it had made of God, his nature, will, and gracious promises towards mankind, differed as much from the preceding dispensation of the Jews, as the light of the meridian sun from the faint twinkling of a star. And they had these privileges that they might show forth the praises of Him who had thus called them; αρετας, the virtues, those perfections of the wisdom, justice, truth, and goodness of God, that shone most illustriously in the Christian dispensation. These they were to exhibit in a holy and useful life, being transformed into the image of God, and walking as Christ himself walked.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Contrast in the privileges and destinies of believers. Compare the similar contrast with the preceding context. chosen--"elect" of God, even as Christ your Lord is. generation--implying the unity of spiritual origin and kindred of believers as a class distinct from the world. royal--kingly. Believers, like Christ, the antitypical Melchisedec, are at once kings and priests. Israel, in a spiritual sense, was designed to be the same among the nations of the earth. The full realization on earth of this, both to the literal and the spiritual Israel, is as yet future. holy nation--antitypical to Israel. peculiar people--literally, "a people for an acquisition," that is, whom God chose to be peculiarly His: Act 20:28, "purchased," literally, "acquired." God's "peculiar treasure" above others. show forth--publish abroad. Not their own praises but His. They have no reason to magnify themselves above others for once they had been in the same darkness, and only through God's grace had been brought to the light which they must henceforth show forth to others. praises--Greek, "virtues," "excellencies": His glory, mercy (Pe1 2:10), goodness (Greek, Pe1 2:3; Num 14:17-18; Isa 63:7). The same term is applied to believers, Pe2 1:5. of him who hath called you-- (Pe2 1:3). out of darkness--of heathen and even Jewish ignorance, sin, and misery, and so out of the dominion of the prince of darkness. marvellous--Peter still has in mind Psa 118:23. light--It is called "His," that is, God's. Only the (spiritual) light is created by God, not darkness. In Isa 45:7, it is physical darkness and evil, not moral, that God is said to create, the punishment of sin, not sin itself. Peter, with characteristic boldness, brands as darkness what all the world calls light; reason, without the Holy Spirit, in spite of its vaunted power, is spiritual darkness. "It cannot apprehend what faith is: there it is stark blind; it gropes as one that is without eyesight, stumbling from one thing to another, and knows not what it does" [LUTHER].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which in time were not a people,.... A "Loammi" being put upon them; see Hos 1:9 to which the apostle here refers: God's elect, whether among Jews or Gentiles, were, from eternity, his chosen people, and his covenant people; and, as such, were given to Christ, and they became his people, and his care and charge; and he saved them by his obedience, sufferings, and death, and redeemed them to himself, a peculiar people: but then, before conversion, they are not a people formed by God for himself, and his praise; nor Christ's willing people, either to be saved by him, or to serve him; nor are they, nor can they be truly known by themselves, or others, to be the people of God: the Syriac version gives the true sense of the phrase, by rendering it "these who before were not" "reckoned or accounted a people"; that is, by others: but are now the people of God; being regenerated, called, and sanctified, they are avouched by God to be his people; they have the witness of the Spirit to their spirits, that they are the people of God; they can then claim their relation to God, and are known, acknowledged, and called the people of God, by others: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy; being called formerly, Loruhamah, Hos 1:6 which passages the apostle has in view: before conversion there is mercy in God's heart towards his elect, and so there is in the covenant of grace, and which was shown in the provision of his Son, as a Saviour, in the mission of him, and redemption by him; but this is not manifested to them, until they are begotten again, according to abundant mercy, and then they obtain mercy; having in their regeneration an evident display of the mercy of God towards them, and an application of his pardoning grace and mercy, through the blood of his Son, unto them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:9 Peter applies descriptions of the Israelites in the Old Testament (see, e.g., Exod 19:5-6) to his primarily Gentile audience, indicating that they—like all Christians—are truly God’s people in the new covenant era.