Connection & Distinction

Peter’s vision of our calling as the followers of Jesus was deeply shaped by his Jewish understanding of the temple. That is why in 1 Peter 2 he compares the church to a temple built from “living stones,” and identifies those who’ve given their allegiance to Jesus as a “royal priesthood.” These Old Testament references to the temple and priests are more than metaphors. They inform many of the ethical commands and instructions Peter gives throughout his letter.