Traditional Lens Commentary: 1 Peter 2:4-10

Traditional Lens Reading of 1 Peter 2:4-10

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read 1 Peter 2:4-10 as a profound declaration of the church's identity rooted in Christ as the cornerstone. This passage affirms believers as a 'chosen race,' 'royal priesthood,' and 'holy nation,' emphasizing our calling to proclaim the excellencies of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. We see this as a statement of our new covenant relationship, where believers, through saving faith, become living stones built up as a spiritual house. This text clearly portrays the church's identity and mission grounded in the substitutionary atonement of Christ, who is the cornerstone rejected by men but precious in God's sight.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek word for 'cornerstone' (ἀκρογωνιαῖος) in verse 6 is crucial, highlighting Christ's foundational role in the spiritual house of God. The semantic range of 'chosen' (ἐκλεκτός) underscores the divine initiative in salvation, affirming predestination and election. Our tradition emphasizes these terms to stress the security and identity of believers in Christ, as intended by the original author.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our reading of 1 Peter 2:4-10 differs from Roman Catholicism, which might emphasize the role of ordained priesthood over the priesthood of all believers. We also diverge from liberal theology that downplays election; we affirm that God's choosing is central to the believer's identity. These differences matter because they impact our understanding of ecclesiology and soteriology, emphasizing God’s sovereign grace in salvation.

Pastoral Application

As pastors, we should urge our congregations to embrace their identity as God's chosen people, called to live holy lives that reflect His light to the world. This passage encourages us to see ourselves not only as individuals saved by grace but as a community built upon Christ, the cornerstone. We should remind our people that their identity in Christ compels them to worship and witness, living out the truth of the gospel in every area of life. A Traditional Lens congregation would expect to hear that their purpose is to glorify God, grounded in the security of being chosen and precious in His sight.

Cross-References: Ephesians 2:19-22; Romans 9:25-26; Isaiah 28:16; Psalm 118:22; Hosea 2:23; Exodus 19:5-6

Doctrinal Connections: justification by faith; substitutionary atonement; priesthood of all believers; election; the church as the body of Christ