But you 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.

On the one hand, there were the people of God during Old Covenant times. On the other hand, there are the people of God during New Covenant times. The former were basically limited to the people of Israel, but the latter has been opened to people of “every tribe and tongue and people and nation” (Revelation 5:9). The former has expanded to become the latter. Israel has transitioned into the universal Church.

Given this, the privileges that were at one time limited to the Old Covenant people of God have become the privileges of the New Covenant Church.

First, the Church is a “chosen generation.” Just as the Lord chose the Old Covenant people of God, the Lord also chose the members of the New Covenant Church. We are, as Peter said, “elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father” (1 Peter 1:2).

Second, the Church is a “royal priesthood.” Just as the Old Covenant people of God were a “kingdom of priests” (Exodus 19:6), so the members of the church are priests. We are a “royal priesthood,” because we are servants of the King.

Third, the Church is a “holy nation.” Just as the Old Covenant people of God were a holy nation separated from the heathen nations around them, so the members of the Church are a holy nation separated from the unbelieving people around them. We have been separated unto God the King for His service.

Finally, the Church is a “special people.” Just as the Old Covenant people of God were His special people formed for God Himself (Isaiah 43:21), so the members of the Church are God’s special people. We are special because God has reserved us as His very own possession.

The Church has been granted all these privileges so that we “may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” Today, then, give praise to God, for He has delivered you from darkness into light, and He has made you very precious to Himself.

By John Huisman, friend of Bible League International