Interviewer: Good day, thank you for joining us today. We have the privilege of speaking with the author of the New Testament book of 1 Peter. Could you please introduce yourself?
Author: Thank you for having me. My name is Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ and a witness to His ministry, death, and resurrection.
Interviewer: It is an honor to have you here, Peter. In 1 Peter 2:9, you speak about the identity of believers. Can you elaborate on what inspired you to write those words?
Author: Absolutely. My intention was to convey God’s heart for His people, the chosen ones, as well as to encourage them in their faith. I wanted to remind them that despite their current circumstances, they have a unique and significant purpose in God’s plan.
Interviewer: That’s fascinating, Peter. Can you walk us through the verse itself?
Author: Of course. In 1 Peter 2:9, I wrote, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.”
Interviewer: That is indeed a powerful statement. Could you break it down for us?
Author: Certainly. First, I want believers to understand that they are a chosen people. This means that God intentionally handpicked them, embracing them as part of His family. They are not forgotten or overlooked; they have been selected for His divine purpose.
Next, I refer to them as a royal priesthood. This emphasizes the close relationship between believers and God. Just as the priesthood in the Old Testament had the privilege of approaching God directly, so now, all believers have that same privilege, being able to draw near to Him and serve as His representatives.
Furthermore, I describe them as a holy nation, emphasizing that believers belong to a greater community of faith. They are set apart from the world, called to live differently and exhibit the character of God in their lives.
Lastly, I mention that believers are God’s special possession. This phrase signifies their value and significance in God’s eyes. They are treasured, loved, and carefully cared for by Him.
Interviewer: It’s remarkable how you were able to convey such profound and encouraging truths in this verse. Is there any final message you would like to leave with our readers?
Author: Absolutely. I want readers to grasp the immense honor and privilege bestowed upon them as believers. They have been chosen, called out, and set apart by God Himself. It is my hope that this understanding would empower them to live boldly, confidently, and faithfully, declaring the praises of the One who has brought them out of darkness and into His marvelous light.
Interviewer: Thank you, Peter, for sharing your insights into this powerful verse from the book of 1 Peter. Your words will surely inspire and encourage many.
