In 1 Peter 2:9, Peter tells us that we (Christians) “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.”
This scripture is full of meaning for us today. We as Christians are a chosen group (not individually) to be God’s people in this age. As priests, we are to “offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5).
In Old Testament times priests came only from the tribe of Levi. These priests taught the people the Law of Moses and carried out the prescribed feasts and sacrifices. This was often tedious and bloody work.
Compare the work of the Old Testament priests to our priestly work today. Instead of carrying out animal and other sacrifices, we are honored to proclaim the eternal sacrifice of Christ on the cross. We are charged with teaching others of “His marvelous light” that we enjoy through obedience to the gospel. Though the great commission can be intimidating, we must put forth our best effort to go into all the world. But remember this, the world is just outside our doors.
Furthermore, we have the honor of carrying out the good works God prepared for us. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we would walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).
Christ’s Kingdom, the Church, is full of priests. We proclaim the love of God and the grace available through Jesus His Son. While we were once in darkness we now can bask in His marvelous light through obedience to the gospel. Let us give our best efforts to our priestly duties this coming week.
For the elders,
Dave Benner