In the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, first published in 1611, Deuteronomy 14:2 reads:
For thou art a holy people unto the Lord thy God, and the Lord hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.
The first time I heard this passage, I was put off. I knew this to be scripture, so who was I to criticize, but a “peculiar” people? Did God really, intended for his people to be described as weird?
This strong initial reaction caused me to want to dig a little deeper. The phrase “a peculiar people” appears fourteen times, in six different translations.. As an adjective, in modern English the word “peculiar” translates; strange, uncommon, distinctive in nature or character from others, belonging characteristically to another. As a noun, it’s defined as; a property or privilege belonging exclusively or characteristically to a person. The Greek-Hebrew dictionary defines the term “peculiar” as; God’s own purchased, special people, a precious possession of great value to be treasured.
I’ve since come to appreciate the complex significance of the phrase “peculiar people”. In both the Old and New Testament God declares his people chosen (hand-selected by God), holy (dedicated for a sacred purpose), ordained (unique members of the royal family), redeemed (bought by God), set apart (made for more than this world), a precious treasure (priceless possession). In Exodus 19 God says, Now therefore, if you will obey my voice in truth and keep my covenant, then you shall be my own peculiar possession and treasure from among and above all people. (AMP).
Peculiar, is an endearing term given by God to his people, and a title that should inspire believers to live differently. To live such a life is to be set free from the snare of sin and death; to be passionate in service; to be filled with hope, love and grace; to be characterized by the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. This life, then, is uncommon and exclusively unique - a life deemed “peculiar” by those who have not yet experienced the redeeming grace of God.
My deep hope is to create a learning environment that encourages everyone to candidly pursue their God-given calling and I’m truly blessed to serve at a school that values the same; the develop of “peculiar people”.
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