⁵ like living stones let yourselves be built^[a] into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.^(A)

²⁰ built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone;^{[a](A) 21} in him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord,^{(B) 22} in whom you also are built together spiritually^[b] into a dwelling place for God.

⁹ For we are God’s coworkers, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building.^(A)

⁹ But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people,^[a] in order that you may proclaim the excellence of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.^(A)

⁶ Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. Over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him a thousand years.^(A)

⁶ Christ, however, was faithful over God’s^[a] house as a son, and we are his house if we hold firm^[b] the boldness and the pride inspired by hope.^(A)

¹⁸ I have been paid in full and have more than enough; I am fully satisfied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.^(A)

⁶ and made us a kingdom, priests serving^[a] his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.^(A)