Who we are
Thirty years ago, that was the message I received one early morning. What resulted was the formation of Dallas Real Estate Ministries. As I was reflecting on this verse, it was apparent that God, through Christ, is building his house for a specific purpose here on earth, and beyond. It says we are chosen and precious to him. And as living stones, with Jesus as our cornerstone, he is constructing us together for the specific work to which he has called us. It goes on to describe in more detail who we are.
- A chosen race
- A royal priesthood
- A holy nation
- A people for his own possession
So, what are we supposed to do with this regal status? Peter explains. “That you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (vs. 9b). Proclaim indicates that we must not only be a strong model, but we are to be a vocal advocate for the gospel of Jesus Christ in our families, our work, our ministry, our play, in season and out of season, in our good times and our bad times.
Freedom
This should result not in a casual but a compelling lifestyle for the gospel. Paul says it well. “For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those that live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised” (2 Cor. 5.14,15).
Peter concludes with this. “Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God” (vs. 2.16). Thrive in your part of the spiritual house.
