A Peculiar Community

Good Morning church! Good morning to those who are joining on the LIVE stream. Great to have that technology.

Well, this morning we are jumping into a brand new series of messages I am simply calling “COMMUNITY” where we will be looking into how we can better follow the Spirit, how we can extend Grace and Demonstrate Love towards one another and to the city of Lebanon and the surrounding areas where we all live, work and play.

We have spent over a year talking about being disciples , apprentices if you will, of Jesus and how to engage ourselves in the disciple-making process. We are not done with that. I will continue to remind us all from this pulpit about our responsibility to step into the kingdom of God and involve ourselves in a real and living relationship with Jesus and teaching others to do the same.

This new series is not a departure from that but in fact is part and parcel of being an apprentice of Jesus. It is one of the natural outcomes if you will, of spiritual formation. Community engagement. Being a Christian disciple is not, nor ever has been, intended to be a solo act. There are no lone ranger Christians. Some will try to be but that will never work out.

So, over the next 9 weeks or so, we are going to do a deep dive into what it means and what it looks like to be a disciple of Christ engaged in...”Community”

This series will focus on the second half of the great commandment, loving our neighbor as ourselves.

Now, right up front, I want to issue a warning. When we begin to move into this aspect of our Christian faith, it can become easy to lose the main focus (the heart) and put all of our emphasis on the wrong thing, the activity itself. The Apostle Paul understood this very well when he said to the Corinthian church,

1Co 13:3 ESV - 3 If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.

As you can probably tell by the title of this morning’s message, “A Peculiar Community”, this morning I want to talk about

The Power of Being “Peculiar”

If someone walked up to you and said, “You’re really peculiar,” you might raise an eyebrow. Depending on the tone, it might feel like a compliment… or it might cause you some level of irritation and sound more like an insult. But in the biblical sense, to be peculiar isn’t odd in a bad way—it’s sacred in a wonderful way.

Our text this morning comes from 1 Peter 2:9 and if you will indulge me I am going to read this verse from the King James.

1Pe 2:9 KJV - 9 But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light

So, the apostle Peter uses some weighty, identity-shaping words to describe followers of Jesus: chosen, royal, holy, and in the King James...peculiar. These aren’t just labels; they’re declarations of identity and calling. They tell us not just who we are, but why we are.

Now I read that from the King James this morning because I wanted to point out that it is the only translation that uses the word “peculiar” to describe Christians.

Most other translations don’t say we are “peculiar” but instead refer to us as ESV - “a people for his own possession”. NKJV - “His own special people” NIV - “God’s special possession” These are actually more in line with current English usage but reflect the same Greek meaning.

So, is the King James a bad translation of this word? Not necessarily. But this is a good example of why I don’t use it much. 17th century Old English is not how people talk today!

In 17th-century English, when the KJV was translated (1611), "peculiar"didn’t mean "odd" or "strange" as it most commonly does today. It meant "belonging exclusively to one person or group"—private property or special possession.

So they got it right. They just used a word that has a different meaning today than it did back then. And actually, I think this old English word nails it, even by today’s understanding of the word.

Because if we are truly living as a follower of Jesus Christ and the Word of God, in this world, we will indeed seem peculiar.

The words Peter wrote serve as both an encouragement and a call to action. Among the descriptors Peter uses—chosen, royal, holy—the phrase "a peculiar people" stands out as particularly evocative. In this mornings message I want us to explore what it means to be a peculiar people in today’s world, emphasizing how Christ followers are distinct from the surrounding culture. We’ll explore how being chosen, royal, holy, and peculiar changes everything about how we live, think, speak, and love. And yes, we’ll talk about how that makes us stand out in a world that often runs in the opposite direction. And hopefully we can discover how the peculiar life is the most beautiful life we could ever live.

Now, in order to fully grasp the significance of being a "peculiar people," we must first understand the context of Peter’s letter. He wrote to believers scattered across Asia Minor, many of whom were enduring hardship for their faith. They were exiles, both literally and spiritually, living in a world that did not share their values or beliefs. Peter’s purpose was to remind them of their true identity in Christ, an identity that set them apart and gave them purpose amid suffering.

Now the word "peculiar" in the King James Version comes from the Latin peculium, meaning private property or a special possession. In this sense, Christians are God’s treasured people, purchased by the blood of Christ. Peter reminds us of this back in chapter 1...

1Pe 1:18-19 ESV - 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.

(not reading from the King James anymore...bcak to my ESV)

Yet, this peculiarity also implies a visible difference—a lifestyle, mindset, and mission that distinguish believers from the world. As God’s possession, we are called to live in a way that showcases His character, fulfilling the purpose Peter outlines: to "shew forth the praises" of the One who called us from darkness into light.

So what I want to do this morning is to first take a closer look at this identity that Peter describes and then quickly highlight some ways in which Christ followers are peculiar. Look at the person next to you and say, “You are very peculiar!”

Now Peter actually makes some statements here that point out our

Identity

Calling

Lifestyle

That we are God’s special possession

Our testimony

Our Purpose

All that in this one verse! First, our identity.

1: Chosen – We Belong to God (Identity)

The first identity marker Peter gives us is this: we are a chosen generation. There’s something powerful about being chosen. It means you’re wanted, you have value, and you didn’t just end up here by accident.

Ephesians 1:4 tells us that God “chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.” That’s not just theological jargon—that’s deeply personal. Before you were born, before you made a mistake, before you proved yourself or failed to, God chose you.

Anecdote:There’s a beautiful story about a boy who was adopted after being in foster care for years. At the adoption ceremony, someone asked the boy how it felt to finally have a “forever home.” He said, “It means they picked me, even though they knew everything about me.”

That’s what God did. He chose us knowing every detail—and He still said yes. That makes us peculiar. In a world that says you have to earn your worth, we live from the truth that we are already chosen.

God has always been in the business of choosing. He chose Abraham, not because Abraham was the best or the brightest, but because God is gracious. He chose Israel, not because they were mighty, but because He loved them

Deu 7:6-8 ESV - 6 "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. 7 It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the LORD set his love on you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples, 8 but it is because the LORD loves you and is keeping the oath that he swore to your fathers, that the LORD has brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the house of slavery, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.

Likewise, God has chosen us in Christ. Ephesians 1:4 says, “He chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him in love.”

Here’s the good news: You didn’t stumble into this life by accident. If you are in Christ, you’ve been handpicked by God. That truth can give you confidence when the world rejects you, overlooks you, or misunderstands you.

Beloved, that’s what God has done. Not because you’re perfect. Not because you earned it. But because He loves you. You are His. He has chosen you.

So, we have been chosen and we belong to God. Next. We are a. . .

2: Royal Priesthood – We Represent God (Calling)

Next, Peter calls us a royal priesthood.

Now that’s a loaded phrase! In the Old Testament, priests had access to God that others didn’t. They offered sacrifices, interceded for people, and maintained the holiness of the temple. And royalty? That means authority, dignity, and inheritance.

Together, “royal priesthood” tells us two things: we have access to God and we represent Him to others.

Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy.” That’s royal access. And 2 Corinthians 5:20 says, “We are ambassadors for Christ.” That’s priestly assignment.

In God’s economy, being a royal priesthood doesn’t require a collar or a title. It requires a heart aligned with God’s and a willingness to represent Him wherever we are.

Back to that passage in Hebrews, beginning in v 14. . .

Hebrews 4:14-16 ESV - 14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

And through Him, we are called to represent God to the world.

That means we have access to God—always. And it also means we carry responsibility: to minister, to intercede, to love, to serve and to pray for those around us.

So we are chosen, belong to God. He has made us a Royal Priesthood and in that role we are God’s ambassadors in this broken world. Next...

3: A Holy Nation – We Are Set Apart (Lifestyle)

Holiness isn’t about being holier-than-thou. It’s about being different in a way that reflects God’s character.

Romans 12:2 urges us, “Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Holiness means we no longer fit into the mold the world has for us. We’re not driven by the same values, we don’t chase the same goals, and we don’t treat people the same way.

Holiness is not about having perfect Sunday attendance or avoiding rated-R movies. It’s about being noticeably different because God has changed us.

Holiness isn’t about being weird—it’s about being different for a purpose. That word holy simply means “set apart for God.” Holiness isn’t just about personal purity; it’s about being distinct from the world, marked by love, truth, and righteousness.

Holiness is a lifestyle that flows from a changed heart.

Here’s where the “peculiar” starts to look… well, peculiar.

While the world hoards, we give.

While the world retaliates, we forgive.

While the world is cynical, we hope.

While the world curses, we bless.

While the world lives for self, we live for Christ.

That is our calling beloved. How are we doing?

Now, at least in the King Jame version, we come to that word : peculiar

4: A Peculiar People – We Are God’s Own (Possession)

To the King James readers, it meant something special—“God’s own possession.” But today it still carries the idea of being “odd,” “unusual,” or “different.” And truth be told, if you’re living like Jesus in a self-centered world, you will look peculiar.

1 Corinthians 1:27 reminds us, “God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise.” Our lives, when lived for Christ, will often appear backwards to the world:

The world might look at us and say...”

You give away some of your money to the church?!

“You forgive people who refuse to apologize?”

“You wait until marriage? That’s outdated!”

“You pray for your enemies? How odd. Who does that?”

We do. That’s who.

5: Out of Darkness Into Marvelous Light – We Are Transformed (Testimony)

Peter says we were called “out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

There’s no better way to describe the Christian life than that: a dramatic movement from darkness to light. Not just moral darkness—but the darkness of aimlessness, fear, guilt, and spiritual death.

But now? We walk in the light. And we shine.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:14–16, “You are the light of the world… let your light so shine before others that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

We shine, not because we’re perfect, but because Jesus is alive in us.

My Testimony:

Many of you don’t know this about the man that stands before you this morning. Believe it or not I was not born a preacher. As a matter of fact, I spent a significant part of my life living in darkness. And when I say darkness, I am talking about a lifestyle that I imagine few of you have only seen in the movies. I did stuff that would make most people lose their hair. ...So I suppose we could assume that people who have hair are all good and bald guys...well.

Without going into the gory details of it all, I used to bring darkness wherever I went. Now I try to bring light. Same body well sort of...but a new man. I can tell you with all assurance that no one who knew me then would recognize me now.

That’s transformation. That’s the peculiar beauty of the gospel. God literally brought me out of darkness into His marvelous light.

Part 6: Show Forth His Praises – We Are a Living Witness (Purpose)

Why all this? Why has God made us a chosen, royal, holy, peculiar people?

Peter tells us: “…that ye should show forth the praises of him who called you…”

Our lives exist to display God’s goodness—to make much of Jesus. The word “show forth” here literally means “to proclaim,” “to declare,” or “to publish.” We are like living billboards of God’s grace.

Our joy, peace, kindness, integrity, and humility all speak of Him. Every act of service, every patient response, every brave “no” to temptation—they all broadcast the goodness of our God to those around us.

Now, let me give you how all of this can translate into us appearing peculiar to the world around us.

First is, we possess. . .

1. A Peculiar Source of Hope

In a world often marked by despair, uncertainty, and fleeting pleasures, Christians stand out because of their unshakeable hope in Christ. This hope is not dependent on external circumstances but is anchored in God’s promises and the certainty of eternal life.

Paul writes in Rom 5:5 ESV - 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

Our hope distinguishes us from the world. While many place their confidence in transient things—wealth, achievements, or temporary comforts—our hope is firmly anchored in Jesus Christ. This steadfast hope sustains us through trials, such as financial hardship or personal loss, because it rests on God’s unchanging promises.

This peculiar hope sets believers apart, offering a testimony to a world searching for meaning.

Next. We have some very. . .

2. Peculiar Moral Standards

Christians are also distinct in their commitment to God’s moral standards, which often clash with societal norms. In a culture that celebrates relativism and self-gratification, believers are called to live holy lives that reflect God’s unchanging truth.

In a culture where values often shift with prevailing trends, we are guided by the timeless truth of God’s Word. It calls us to lives of integrity, compassion, and honesty, even when such choices stand in contrast to societal norms.

In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, Paul instructs,

1Th 4:3-5 ESV - 3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4 that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, 5 not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God;

This call to purity contrasts sharply with the permissive culture of Paul’s day—and ours. Likewise, Leviticus 20:26 echoes this theme: Lev 20:26 ESV - 26 You shall be holy to me, for I the LORD am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine.

We also show. . .

3. A Peculiar Love for Others

Maybe the most radical mark of Christian peculiarity is the command to love others—even enemies. This love, modeled by Jesus, defies human instincts and cultural expectations. Jesus commands us to love not only our friends but also our enemies—a directive that defies human instinct. This radical love reflects His own heart.

Jesus declares in Matthew 5:44, "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."

This teaching turns worldly wisdom upside down.In fact, John makes a very significant statement about our identity in this broken world.

Jhn 13:35 ESV - 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

Corrie ten Boom’s story is a stunning example. A Dutch Christian, Corrie was imprisoned in a Nazi concentration camp for hiding Jews during World War II. Years later, she met one of her former guards—a man who had contributed to her suffering. Instead of bitterness, Corrie chose forgiveness, extending the love she had received from Christ. She later wrote that it was one of the hardest yet most liberating moments of her life. Her peculiar love not only healed her heart but also pointed others to God’s grace.

Our love for one another can actually transform lives beloved.

We also have ...

4. A Peculiar Perspective on Suffering

The world often views suffering as a tragedy to avoid, but Christians see it as an opportunity for growth and identification with Christ. This perspective is profoundly different and often perplexing to others.

Rom 5:3 ESV - 3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance,

James 1:2–3 “2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.”

God’s Word frames suffering as purposeful, not pointless.

Historically, the Apostle Paul exemplified this in his imprisonments, writing joyful letters like Philippians from chains. His ability to rejoice amid suffering showcased a peculiar faith that strengthened the early church.

We also

5. Peculiar Stewardship

Christians are set apart by how they manage their resources—time, money, and talents—viewing them as gifts from God to be used for His glory rather than personal gain.

In 1 Timothy 6:17-18, Paul advises,

1Ti 6:17-18 ESV - 17 As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. 18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,

Matthew 6:19-20 adds,

Mat 6:19-20 ESV - 19 "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.

This peculiar approach to stewardship reflects a kingdom mindset that values giving over getting.

And finally we have. . .

6. A Peculiar Mission

Christians are peculiar because of their mission to share the gospel and make disciples. In a world focused on self-promotion, believers prioritize God’s kingdom.

We are commissioned to share the gospel of Jesus Christ, not for our own acclaim, but to direct others to His saving grace.

Jesus commissions His followers in Matthew 28:19-20, a passage we look at often around here...:Mat 28:19-20 ESV - 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

And we most certainly want to be an Acts 1:8 people...

Act 1:8 ESV - 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

Old Testament Roots and Jesus as Our Model

Peter’s description of believers draws heavily from the Old Testament. Deuteronomy 7:6 declares Israel as "a special people unto himself," and Exodus 19:6 calls them "a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation." Peter applies these titles to the church, showing that Christ followers are now God’s covenant people.

Jesus Himself modeled this peculiarity. He dined with sinners, challenged religious hypocrisy, and embraced the cross—all actions that set Him apart. In John 15:19, He says,

Jhn 15:19 ESV - 19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you."

His life teaches us that being peculiar may invite opposition but is central to our calling. So there is a purpose and there is a challenge to our Peculiarity

Our peculiarity is not for its own sake but to "proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness

When we live differently—hoping in trials, loving the unlovable, giving generously—we point others to Him. Yet, this comes with challenges. 2 Timothy 3:12 warns,

2Ti 3:12 ESV - 12 Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,

And yet we have this promise to Jacob In Isaiah to encourage us:

Isa 43:2 ESV - 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.

This peculiarity also engages the world redemptively. Jesus prayed,

Jhn 17:15 ESV - 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one."

We are in the world but not of it, called to transform it through our distinct witness.

Conclusion: Embracing Our Calling

Being a peculiar people is both a privilege and a responsibility. It requires courage to stand out, faith to trust God’s plan, and love to reflect His heart. Yet, it is also a source of joy, knowing we are His and living for His glory.

We are going to observe the Lord’s Supper this morning. As we do, I want to invite you to take a moment and reflect on your life: Ask yourself, Am I as peculiar as I should be? Where can you embrace your peculiarity more fully? Maybe it’s sharing hope with a struggling friend, forgiving a wrong, or stewarding your resources differently. Whatever it may be, let us live boldly as God’s peculiar people, shining His light in a dark world and drawing others to the marvelous light we’ve been called into.

May we say with confidence, as Peter’s readers did, that we are His—chosen, royal, holy, and wonderfully peculiar.

The Lord’s Supper calls us to remember and observe Jesus’ sacrifice and reaffirms our unity in Him. As we partake of the bread and the cup, let’s do it with reverence and gratitude, mindful that we are chosen and set apart for His purposes.

Explanation and Invitation

The Lord’s Supper is a holy moment to commemorate Jesus’ body, broken for us, and His blood, shed for the forgiveness of sins. It is a time to reflect on His love and our shared identity as His people. So if you are a follower of Jesus Christ, I invite you to participate in this communal act.

Guidance

The Bread: represents Jesus’ body, offered for our salvation. As you take and eat, remember His sacrifice and the hope it secures.

1Co 11:23-24 ESV - 23 For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, "This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me."

The Cup: represents His blood, poured out for our redemption. As you drink, offer thanks for His grace and the new life it brings.

1Co 11:25 ESV - 25 In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me."

1Co 11:26 ESV - 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.

And may we say with confidence, as Peter’s readers did, that we are His—chosen, royal, holy, and wonderfully peculiar.

Let’s Pray

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for calling me out of darkness into Your marvelous light. Thank You for choosing us, for setting us apart, and for giving us the high calling of being Your own. We are humbled that You call us a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and yes even a peculiar people.

Lord, help us to walk boldly in that identity. Let us not be ashamed of being different in a world that desperately needs something real and true. Empower us to live with love, integrity, grace, and courage. May our lives reflect Your character and point others to Your goodness.

Give us strength when we feel alone, wisdom when we feel confused, and joy when our faith is tested. Remind us daily that we are not our own—we belong to You.

Use our words, our work, our homes, and our hearts to “show forth Your praises” every single day. Father, we rely on Your Spirit to fulfill this calling. May our lives reflect Your light, .

We love You, we honor You, and we say again—yes, Lord. We will be Your peculiar people.

We pray this in the STRONG name of Jesus Christ.’

Amen