George Wright, Pastor, Shades Mountain Baptist Church
“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who are elect exiles… according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.” 1 Peter 1:1–2
Peter opens his letter by calling his readers “elect exiles.”
That phrase is packed with meaning. It describes people who have been chosen by God (elect) but who live in a world that isn’t their home (exiles).
These early believers resided in regions such as Pontus, Galatia, and Asia. But Peter wanted them to remember—your real home isn’t here. You belong to God’s kingdom. That changes everything: how you live, what you value, and what you stand for.
The same is true for us today. If you follow Jesus, you won’t blend in perfectly with the world around you. And that’s not a bad thing. You’re part of something bigger.
Peter writes to encourage believers who feel out of place. And right up front, he gives us four key truths that can anchor us as we live out our faith in a world that often feels foreign:
1. You were chosen with purpose by God the Father.
When life gets hard or confusing, remember that God knew you before you were born. He chose you for this moment. You’re not where you are by accident. God placed you there to point people to His kingdom and to live out the hope that only Jesus can give.
2. The Holy Spirit is shaping you.
You’re not alone. The Spirit of God is working in your life to make you more like Jesus. It’s not always easy—transformation can be uncomfortable. But even through struggles, God is doing something beautiful. He’s growing your faith and helping others see His grace through your life.
3. You’re called to obey, not to earn love, but to respond to it.
Jesus gave His life for you. Through His blood, you’ve been made clean. Now, obedience becomes an act of love and worship, not a chore or burden. You follow Him because of what He’s done, not to try to earn His approval.
4. God gives you more than enough grace and peace.
Peter ends his introduction with a blessing: “May grace and peace be multiplied to you.” That’s not just a nice thought—it’s a promise. In Christ, you have everything you need. God’s grace and peace are constantly available, even in life’s most uncertain seasons.
Wherever you find yourself today, remember—you’re not alone, and you’re not forgotten. You’re an elect exile, chosen and empowered to live differently, with God’s grace and peace overflowing.
DIG DEEPER
Read “We Are Just Passing Through” by Bryant Wright
