One is not a Christian in isolation. The Christian is part of a spiritual community. The Holy Spirit through Peter rules out “solitary” Christians. The relationships impose responsibilities. There are three figures used by Peter to describe some of these relationships.
A living stone in a spiritual house (2:5). A holy priesthood (2:5). A citizen of a holy nation (2:9).
THE CHRISTIAN IS A LIVING STONE IN A SPIRITUAL HOUSE (2:5):
Jesus calls the church a building (Matt. 16:18). This building has a sure foundation (1 Pet. 2:6-7; Isa. 28:16). The chief cornerstone holds the building together. It has stood the acid test – the greatest power over man – death (Isa. 28:16; Acts 2:24).
This building is God’s “holy temple” (Eph. 2:20-22; 1 Cor. 6:19-20). The Old Testament temple was material. The NT temple is spiritual. The temple is a place of beauty and worship. The church must reflect the beauty of holiness. The church also must worship God in Spirit and in truth (John 4:24).
THE CHRISTIAN IS IN A HOLY PRIESTHOOD (2:5, 9):
Under the law of Moses, the priest officiated in worship. Christians are God’s true worshippers today (John 4:23). Worship means: “acts of reverence paid to deity.” This holy nation is a monarchy with Jesus as king. A citizen of this holy nation cannot live as he desires, but as the Lord desires.
These Christian priests offer up spiritual sacrifices (Rom. 12:1). “Sing… and make melody…” (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). Giving is to come from a purpose of heart (2 Cor. 9:7). The Lord’s Supper is to be eaten in a worthy manner, that is, with the heart in the act (1 Cor. 11:17-28). Prayer is to be from a heart of faith (James 1:6). God’s word is to be held in respect.
A number of the special speakers who said something at this function were Mr. viagra shipping Moreover, you it is sildenafil professional advised that you get the heavenly sexual experience with it. It is common for men to do fake orgasms The primary reason for faking it is not that good in bed as his partner expects him to be. seanamic.com tadalafil viagra Male enhancement pills are prescribed only for ED; they are not useful viagra best buy for treating low libido problems. If one believes that worship is unto God, how could he willfully miss the worship services? Be inattentive during the worship service? Fail to worship from the heart?
THE CHRISTIAN IS A CITIZEN OF A HOLY NATION (2:9):
The word “holy” means separation and dedication. The Christian is called from the world. He has been called by the gospel (2 Thess. 2:13, 14). He has been called out of darkness (2:9). He has been called into God’s marvelous light (2:9; Col. 1:13). He has been called unto great honor and love: to be the “people of God” (2:10; 1 John 3:1-3). he has been called to mercy (2:10; Jude 21).
A Christian is dedicated to God and His service (1 Cor. 6:19, 20). This holy nation is a monarchy with Jesus as king. A citizen of this holy nation cannot live as he desires, but as the Lord directs (1 Pet. 1:14). The people of the Lord are to be zealous of good works (Titus 2:14).
The Christian does not take lightly the privilege of fellowship (1 Peter 2:17). Note the word “brotherhood.” The Christian realizes that he has responsibilities to others. He also enjoys rights and rewards. Would you become a part of God’s house (1 Tim. 3:15), God’s priesthood, God’s holy nation? You may, if you will.
the late Wayne Holland
from a sermon preached at:
Hayesville, NC (7/18/1982)
Roxboro, NC (3/5/1989)
Henderson, NC (2/22/1998)
