thinking bible.

You asked

how does this compare to old testament ideas about who belongs to god's covenant community?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Exodus 19:5-6

Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice, and keep my covenant, then you shall be my own possession from among all peoples; for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel.

This passage is part of God's declaration to the Israelites through Moses at Mount Sinai, just after their exodus from Egypt. It sets the stage for the giving of the Law, outlining the special relationship God desires with them as a covenant community.

What does it mean for a community to be both a 'kingdom of priests' and a 'holy nation' in today's world?

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Read alongside it

  • Deuteronomy 7:6

    Echoes the idea of Israel as a chosen and holy people, distinct from other nations.

  • 1 Peter 2:9

    Applies similar language of a 'royal priesthood' and 'holy nation' to New Testament believers.

  • Isaiah 61:6

    Looks forward to a time when Israel will be called 'priests of Yahweh' and 'ministers of our God'.

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