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Key Text
Exodus 19:5–6
“Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My treasured possession 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 that you shall speak to the children of Israel.”
1 Peter 2:9–10
“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; you who once were not a people, but are now the people of God; who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
The Christian community flourishes when we all exercise our priesthood.
The church remains strong only if we all participate actively.
We Are Royal Priests, Not Spectators!
Peter reminds us that we are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation.” This is not a decorative title—it is an identity with purpose!
Matthew Henry writes:
“All true servants of Christ constitute a royal priesthood. They are royal in their relation to God and Christ, in their power before God and over themselves and their spiritual enemies; they are worthy of admiration for their spiritual growth and virtues, and for their hopes and expectations. They are a royal priesthood, separated from sin and sinners, consecrated to God, offering Him spiritual service and sacrifices acceptable through Jesus Christ.”
David S. Schrock explains:
“Just as the Spirit anointed Jesus for His priestly ministry at His baptism in the Jordan, now, after Pentecost, Jesus baptizes His disciples with the Spirit, sealing and empowering them for priestly service in evangelism and discipleship (Romans 15:16). Therefore, the Holy Spirit makes the church a holy nation and a royal priesthood, sent to proclaim the mercies of God (1 Peter 2:1–12).”
Although some may not feel comfortable with the term “priest,” Scripture makes it clear that we are all called to be one. And since we all bear that title, we all have duties to fulfill in the church.
Imagine receiving a royal letter declaring that you have been adopted into the King’s family. Would you keep living as if nothing had happened? Of course not! You would change the way you walk, speak, and serve. That is how our lives should look as priests of the King of kings.
Don’t say: “I’m just another member.” No! You are a priest. Repeat after me:
- Our prayer has power.
- Our service has purpose.
- Our testimony has impact.
Don’t expect the pastor to do everything. You too have been anointed!
Priesthood Is Teamwork
The Holy Spirit anoints us for priestly service. This is not for a few—it is for all. Just like in a sports team, if one player doesn’t fulfill their role, the whole team suffers.
During the pandemic, coach Frank Vogel said that the lack of practice affected the team’s execution. The same happens in the church: if we don’t gather, if we don’t serve together, we lose spiritual rhythm.
Priesthood is like a team: each one of us has duties and responsibilities. If we don’t fulfill them, the whole body suffers.
What happens if the intercessor doesn’t pray, the usher doesn’t welcome, the teacher doesn’t teach, or the worshiper doesn’t sing? The body weakens. Don’t stay on the bench! Put on the Kingdom jersey and play your part. Victory is collective!
Vulnerability Unites Us, Not Divides Us
When we gather as a church, our weaknesses are exposed. Like HDTV that shows every detail, closeness reveals imperfections. But in Christ, that is not a reason for shame—it is an opportunity for healing.
A sister once shared that she was afraid to serve because she stuttered. But when she did, the church embraced her, and her courage inspired others. Vulnerability became victory!
Don’t hide your struggles. In God’s temple, your wounds don’t disqualify you—they make you more useful. The priest was not perfect, but he was consecrated. God is not looking for perfection; He is looking for willingness.
Rise Up, Priest of the Kingdom!
You are not here by accident. You were called, anointed, and sent. The church is not a theater—it is a temple. We are not spectators—we are priests. Activate your calling! Pray, serve, love, proclaim. The Kingdom advances when you participate.
Sincerely, Pastor Guillermo Ayala