The term "People of God" is a significant biblical concept that refers to those who are chosen and set apart by God for His purposes. This designation is rooted in the covenantal relationship between God and His followers, beginning with the nation of Israel and extending to the Church in the New Testament.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the "People of God" primarily refers to the Israelites, the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God established a covenant with Abraham, promising to make his descendants a great nation (Genesis 12:2). This covenant was reaffirmed with Isaac and Jacob, and it was through Moses that God delivered the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, further solidifying their identity as His chosen people. In Exodus 19:5-6 , God declares, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine. And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation."

The Israelites were called to be a light to the nations, demonstrating God's holiness and righteousness through their obedience to His laws. Despite their frequent disobedience and idolatry, God remained faithful to His covenant, sending prophets to call them back to repentance and to remind them of their identity as His people.

New Testament Context

With the advent of Jesus Christ, the concept of the "People of God" expands to include both Jews and Gentiles who believe in Him. The New Testament reveals that through Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection, the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile is broken down, and all believers are united as one people in Christ. In 1 Peter 2:9-10 , the apostle Peter writes, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy."

The Church, composed of all who have faith in Jesus Christ, is now the "People of God." This new covenant community is called to live out the values of the Kingdom of God, bearing witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. The apostle Paul emphasizes this unity in Ephesians 2:19 , stating, "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household."

Theological Significance

The designation "People of God" carries profound theological implications. It underscores the idea of divine election, where God, in His sovereignty, chooses individuals and communities to fulfill His redemptive purposes. This identity is not based on ethnic or cultural heritage but on faith in Jesus Christ and adherence to His teachings.

Being the "People of God" involves both privilege and responsibility. Believers are recipients of God's promises and blessings, yet they are also called to live in a manner worthy of their calling, reflecting God's character and advancing His mission in the world. This includes loving one another, pursuing holiness, and engaging in acts of service and evangelism.

Eschatological Hope

The concept of the "People of God" also carries an eschatological dimension. The Bible points to a future where God's people will dwell with Him eternally. Revelation 21:3 envisions this ultimate fulfillment: "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" This hope inspires believers to persevere in faith, looking forward to the day when God's kingdom is fully realized.