Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

1 PETER 2:10KJV
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1 Peter 2:10 (KJV)

What does 1 Peter 2:10 mean?

1 Peter 2:10 describes how the people being addressed were once not recognized as God’s people, but now they are; they once had not received God’s mercy, but now they have. The verse highlights a dramatic change in their spiritual status and relationship with God.

Peter is writing to believers, many of whom were Gentiles, reminding them that their new identity as God’s people is a result of God’s mercy. This echoes language from the Old Testament, especially from Hosea, where God promised to show mercy to those who were once outsiders. The verse emphasizes belonging and acceptance that comes from God’s initiative.

The Greek behind 1 Peter 2:10

  • λαός (laos, G2992) — "people": This word is used twice to stress the shift from not being a people to being God’s people, underlining a new collective identity.
  • ἠλεημένοι (ēleēmenoi, from G1653) — "obtained mercy": The Greek word carries the idea of receiving compassion or mercy, emphasizing that their new status is not earned but given by God’s kindness.
  • νῦν (nyn, G3568) — "now": This word marks the present reality, drawing a clear line between their past and their current standing with God.

Why 1 Peter 2:10 matters

  • 1 Peter 2:10 clarifies that being part of God’s people is not about heritage or background, but about God’s mercy and calling.
  • The verse connects the readers’ experience to Old Testament promises, showing continuity in God’s plan for including outsiders.
  • This verse helps explain the broader theme of 1 Peter 2, where believers are described as a chosen people and a royal priesthood, highlighting their new, honored identity in God’s eyes.

Where else these words appear

“past” Greek G4218 · used in 28 verses

  • Luke 22:32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
  • Ephesians 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
  • 1 Thessalonians 2:5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:

“had” Greek G1653 · used in 28 verses

  • Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
  • Mark 10:48 And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.
  • Romans 11:31 Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.

“now” Greek G3568 · used in 133 verses

  • Matthew 24:21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
  • John 21:10 Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:14 But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:

“people” Greek G2992 · used in 139 verses

  • Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
  • Luke 22:2 And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people.
  • Acts 19:4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.