Introduction:     While it is true that many today stumble (v.8) over the simplicity of Jesus Christ, there are some who have discovered that He is the precious rock of salvation and a firm foundation on which to build their life. I want to remind you this morning of the blessings of being one of God’s wonderful people (the Church; the Family of God). God’s wonderful people:

I.          ARE SPECIAL (V.9)
This is the good news! There are some folks that didn’t stumble. Some people found that Jesus is the sure foundation; the rock of ages…cleft for me. Why are you special?

A.                 You Are Chosen

1.      God chose to save us (simply because He loves you).

2.       God chose to use us. (Illus: you may not have been chosen for the team when you were young, but you’re special because God has chosen you!)

In spite of our faults God has chosen us (and He knew what He was getting). God could have chosen to use:

• Angles
• Nature (rocks)
• Animals

Why does God us man? It is a miracle when God accomplishes His work through us considering what He has to work with.

B.                 You Are Royalty

Jesus blended the 2 offices of King and Priest. In Him we are a kingdom of priests. The Bible teaches us that a priest is one with:

• Access to God ( Rom. 5:1-2)
• Brings gifts to God (sacrifices)
• Intercedes on the behalf of others.

A King is one who has:

• Power (authority) – Jesus has given us the power of eternal life over death, hell, and the grave!
• Riches – I have the un-searchable riches of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Phil 4:19) "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
• Apparel – God has given His children a robe of righteousness and the ring of reconciliation.
• Attendants – God has dispatched His angles to watch over you.

C.                 You Are Owned

Set apart – a holy nation a peculiar people. How can I live like everybody else when I understand that I am special to God based on all of the above? Peculiar is not odd, but describes personal ownership. We are a God-owned nation. You are His private, personal, possession. Only God owns you because He purchased you with His own blood!

II.         ARE USEFUL (V.9)
With all our faults we are useful to God. What does God use us to do!

A.                 In Proclamation

“Shew forth” = to speak forth; to speak out…“the praises of Him” = His virtues (the Excellency of Jesus). Our life is to be a demonstration of the virtues of God!

B.                 In Invitation

“Called you” = the call of God is personal (not to a crowd, but to a person). “Out of darkness” = a Bible picture of death, of sin, of ignorance, of gloom, and sorrow.  “Into His marvelous light” = speaks of truth, of joy, of holiness, and health. The invitation is a call from the darkness, drudgery, and death of sin to the light of God presence, love, and forgiveness. We are to go forth from this place and give out invitations!

III.       ARE CHANGED (V.10)

A.           Who We Are (the people of God)

B.         What We Have (mercy)

Conclusion:       There is enough mercy in God to touch every person in the world. Have you been to Calvary ? Have you been saved? If so, you are the wonderful people of God! Trust in Jesus today and receive Him as your Savior. What a blessing it is to be one of God’s wonderful people!