Peter continues to exhort new believers in their calling in contrast to former associations. He draws on a source of cultural understanding that would be entirely new to a Gentile believer – the Word of God preserved via His elect people of old. Isaiah 28, 8:14, and Hosea are foundational to these admonitions. In expounding the Word of God, the apostle familiarizes a called out people with their redeemed identity, history, and purpose. Peter, in so doing, is equipping the church with unique and effective strategies for victory. In spite of the elect exile's conspicuous, new, and profoundly different worldview, he will nevertheless, stand unassailed on the day of visitation if he remembers and applies the apostle's message. Building on the injunction of 1:22: “Having purified your souls....love one another earnestly from a pure heart.” He now contrasts this charge with corrupt and defiling conditions of heart rendering sincere brotherly love impossible (2:1). He uses metaphorical literary devices throughout this passage which illustrate his message beautifully. Helpful comparisons to new born infants, milk, stones, house, priesthood, sojourners, exiles, etc. emphasize the unique calling of the born- again believer and the means of His perseverance. These concepts could not be more relevant to the situation we face today including confusion and conflict fueled by misplaced cultural and political allegiances. May we hear the Word of God that we may turn, apply, and proclaim it among the Gentile evil doers of our day...