NOW THE PEOPLE OF GOD. 1st Peter 2:10 . Because of Israel’s sins, Hosea wrote that the covenant relationship they had with God had been set aside, and they were no longer called “God’s people.” In the book of Romans, Paul applies Hosea’s words to the Gentiles. In this passage of scripture, the words “the people of God” apply to both Jews and Gentiles who compose the church of God. God makes sinners “the people of God” when they hear and obey His voice.
Believers have been chosen by God to represent Him, so their value as children of God is not based on what they achieve or seek to do, but on what God has done and continues to do. Before we were believers in Christ, we had no place or role in God’s plans. We were “no people.” However, since God saved us, we have become special people called to carry out God’s purposes in this world. Another contrast is that before salvation, we did not experience God’s forgiveness and merciful love, but now we do. These parallels between Israel in the Old Testament and the people of God in the New Testament open to us an understanding of what it means to be a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a special people.
Believing Jews experience the fulfillment of what will yet happen to Israel. Unbelieving Jews remain alienated from God, but Israel will be restored as a “special people.” When the Lord Jesus Christ returns to deliver them and turn away ungodliness from Jacob, Israel will come into its own as a chosen earthly nation from which the King of kings will reign in righteousness.
Once dead – but now alive Once lost – but now found Once in darkness – but now in light Once in mire – but now on holy ground
Once poor – but now made rich Once an enemy – but now a son Once an orphan – but now one of His Once at the end of the road – but now just begun
Once an alien – but now a friend Once a hungered – but now I’m filled Once cast out – but now brought in Once in sickness – but now fully healed
Once under the curse – but now I am blessed
Once in bondage – but now set free Once Satan’s slave – but now by God possessed Once burdened down – but now walking in liberty
Once in hopeless poverty – but now an heir of God Once in weakness – now given power to live Once ignorant of truth – now possessed by the Word Once empty-handed, now all things I have