Peculiar People
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Aug 14, 2023
- 2 min read
I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. (Romans 11:11)
The Greek word used for salvation, soteria, encompasses the concepts of rescue, safety, health, and deliverance. We, as Gentile believers, have been included in the full redemptive work of Christ and we can experience the fullness of God's soteria. Paul revealed an interesting purpose behind the Gentiles' salvation - to provoke Israel to jealousy.
As believers, we are described as peculiar, not in the sense of being strange, but as unique individuals, hand selected and purchased by the precious blood of Jesus. We have been set apart for a divine purpose - to shine the light of Christ in a dark world. Our peculiarity stems from the unique privilege of knowing Jesus and entrusted with the responsibility of sharing His soteria by bringing Heaven’s ways to earth. We should be vessels that bring healing, safety, rescue, and deliverance.
Christianity owes its existence to Judaism. God blessed the Jews in the Old Testament to draw people to Him, and He does the same thing today through believers. We are peculiar because we belong to God; He takes care of us; His soteria saves, protects, provides, and heals us.
We are called to proclaim the Gospel by being a living testimony of God's faithfulness, provoking others to turn their hearts to Him. We must embrace our role as a peculiar people while standing in awe of God's divine plan. Live for Jesus and carry His kingdom into the dark places of our world.
Practical Application
As a peculiar person, live a life that reflects God’s love and truth. Let your words and actions align with the Word, so you’re a vessel that brings God’s Kingdom to every encounter. Pray for divine appointments and be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit, to share the Gospel wherever He leads.
