1 Peter 2:9

Generation [γ ε ν ο ς]. Better, Rev., race : a body with a common life and descent.

Nation [ε θ ν ο ς]. People [λ α ο ς]. The distinction between these three words cannot be closely pressed. Race emphasizes the idea of descent; nation, of community. Laov, people, occurring very often in the Septuagint, is used there mostly of the Israelites, the chosen people. The same use is also frequent in the New Testament; but it is employed in a more general sense, as by Luke 2:10. It would seem that this idea, however, in its metaphorical and Christian application, the chosen Israel of God, directed Peter's choice of the word, since he adds, a people for God's own possession.

Peculiar [ε ι ς π ε ρ ι π ο ι η σ ι ν]. Lit., a people for acquisition. Rev., a people for God's own possession. Wyc., a people of purchasing. Cranmer, a people which are won. The word occurs 1 Thessalonians 5:9, rendered obtaining (Rev.); Ephesians 1:14, God's own possession (Rev.). See Isaiah 43:21 (Sept.), where the kindred verb occurs : " This people have I formed for myself [π ε ρ ι ε π ο ι η σ α μ η ν].

Shew forth [ε ξ α γ γ ε ι λ η τ ε]. Only here in New Testament. Proclaim, tell abroad.

The praises [τ α ς α ρ ε τ α ς]. Lit., the virtues. So Rev., excellencies. The word occurs Isaiah 43:21 (Sept., see above), and is rendered praise. See, also, Isaiah 43:12 (Sept.), "Declare his praise [α ρ ε τ α ς] in the islands."