1 Peter 2:7-10
7 “This precious value, then, is for you who believe; but for unbelievers,
‘A stone which the builders rejected,
This became the chief cornerstone,’
8 and,
‘A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense’;
for they stumble because they are disobedient to the word, and to this they were also appointed. 9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 for you once were not a people, but now you are the people of God; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”
Verse 7: In this verse, Peter highlights the preciousness of Jesus, the cornerstone, to those who believe. Through faith in Christ, believers recognize the value and significance of Jesus as the cornerstone of their faith. However, to those who do not believe, Jesus may be rejected and seen as insignificant. This rejection does not diminish His true worth and importance.
Verse 8: Here, Peter describes Jesus as a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall. This stumbling and falling is a result of people’s disobedience to the message of the gospel. It is not that God predestined certain individuals to stumble, but rather their rejection of the truth leads to their own downfall.
Verse 9: Peter addresses believers as a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and God’s special possession. These descriptions highlight the identity and position of believers in Christ. Through their union with Jesus, they are chosen, set apart, and called to declare the praises of God. This is not based on their own merit or works, but on the grace and love of God.
Verse 10: Peter reminds believers of their transformation from not being a people to becoming the people of God. This transformation occurs through faith in Christ. Believers were once without identity and mercy, but now they have received the mercy of God and are part of His redeemed community.
