Who Are the People of God?
The term “the people of God” signifies a chosen relationship—one that began with Abraham and extends to all who follow Christ.
The Foundation: Israel as God’s Chosen Nation
In Genesis 12, God called Abram (later Abraham) to leave his homeland, promising to make him a great nation (Genesis 12:2). This nation—Israel—became the first identified as God’s people. Through Isaiah, God reaffirmed this bond: “I have put my words in your mouth and covered you with the shadow of my hand… who declares to Zion, ‘You are my people’” (Isaiah 51:16). Ezekiel 38:14 further solidifies Israel’s unique role.
Expansion Through Christ: God’s People Redefined
Jesus came not only for Israel but for all humanity (Romans 1:16, 10:12; Galatians 3:28). The criteria for being God’s people shifted from ethnicity to faith:
- Heart over heritage: David acknowledged that God examines the heart (1 Chronicles 29:17), emphasizing inward devotion over outward identity.
- Confession over custom: Salvation comes through confessing Christ as Lord (Romans 10:9), not rituals or lineage.
The Decision That Defines God’s People
Becoming part of God’s people requires a conscious choice:
- It’s not earned by good works or church attendance.
- It’s marked by surrendering to God’s lordship (Mark 8:38; 2 Corinthians 6:16).
When we choose God, He embraces us in return—and we become truly His.
