In the last section of the previous chapter, Peter reminds us that through the lasting, enduring word of God, we have been born again from an incorruptible seed. Because of this new birth, Peter calls us in this chapter to lay aside the works of the flesh, for such things keep us from inheriting the kingdom of God (Gal 5:19-21). Instead, he tells us to imitate the heart of newborn babes, to be hungry, dependent and longing for God’s word so that we may grow in Christ.

(1 Pet 2:2-3)

Just as newborn babies instinctively seek their mother’s milk, we too are called to crave the pure spiritual milk of God’s word. Milk is the only essential and constant food that a newborn needs to grow and develop. In the same way, God’s word is the nourishment we need. Without it, we become weak, vulnerable, and easily drawn away.

A hungry baby cries relentlessly until it is fed. Its desire is simple, pure, and strong. How about us? When our hearts are weary, when our spirits feel empty, do we naturally cry out for God’s word with the same urgency and dependence? During moments of difficulty and weakness, do we seek God’s word to nourish our souls or do we turn to vices or worldly distractions to fill our spiritual emptiness?

Since we have already tasted God’s goodness and lovingkindness, let us come to Him always, allowing His word to strengthen, refresh, and grow us every day.

(1 Pet 2:4-10)

Even after we have been baptised, it is easy to forget who we really are. We live in a world full of noise, comparison, and pressure. Many of us, at times, struggle with our own identity. Through challenges and setbacks, we lose confidence. We compare ourselves with others, and when we fall short of worldly standards, we become discouraged or even resentful. But here, Peter reminds us as members of a spiritual house, a holy priesthood and God’s special people, we are precious. Jesus is the chief living cornerstone, and like Him, we are living stones, chosen and valuable, each serving a beautiful purpose.

As children of God, let us not doubt our worth. Our heavenly father has called us out of darkness, shown us mercy, and made us His own (1 Pet 2:9). So let us rejoice, fixing our minds not on the standards and treasures of this world, but on building treasures above. In this world, we are sojourners and pilgrims (1 Pet 2:11), merely passing through. With the time God has given us, let us do good works and abstain from indulging in fleshly lusts and live in a way that reflects the light of Christ.

Do good works only involve loving our neighbours and helping those in need? Peter also teaches us that doing good includes submitting to government authorities, giving honour to those around us, and loving our brothers and sisters so that we may bring glory to God as His bondservants (1 Pet 2:13-25).

He also calls us to submit to our employers (1 Pet 2:18), not just those who are kind, but also to those who are harsh and unfair, for such conduct is commendable in God’s eyes. Yes, this is hard and painful to obey. Often, it is easy to retaliate or respond negatively when treated unfairly, but Peter instructs us to follow the example of Jesus (1 Pet 2:21-23): to do good, to be patient in suffering and to entrust ourselves to God who judges righteously.

Vengeance is not ours to carry, instead, we must trust that God will administer justice and refrain from seeking retaliation for the wrongs done to us (Romans 12:19). Therefore, as Christians, let us strive to walk righteously before the Lord, laying aside old habits, old sins, and old desires, and renewing ourselves daily in His love and His word.

Reflection Questions

1. Longing for God’s Word (1 Pet 2:2–3)

• Do I desire God’s word with the same urgency and dependence as a newborn craves milk?

• When I feel empty, tired, or stressed, where do I instinctively turn first—God’s word or worldly distractions?

2. Understanding My Identity in Christ (1 Pet 2:4–10)

• What worldly standards or voices do I need to stop measuring myself against?

• How does knowing that I am a “living stone”, chosen, precious, and placed by God, change the way I see myself?

3. Living as Sojourners and Pilgrims (1 Pet 2:11)

• What earthly attachments or desires tend to pull my heart away from God?

• How can I use the time I have on earth more purposefully for God’s kingdom?

4. Doing Good and Reflecting Christ (1 Pet 2:13–25)

• In what ways can I show honour, love, and respect to the people around me—including those I find difficult?

• Is there someone I find challenging to submit to or work under? What might God be teaching me through that situation?