1 Peter 2:4

To whom. Or, “unto whom,” that is, unto the Lord (v. 3).

Coming. Or, “keep coming.” As a child is frequently hungry (v. 2), so the Christian will feel continually his need for spiritual nourishment. Daily the Christian surrenders his life to Christ, and God’s blessings are renewed to him.

Living stone. That is, the Lord Jesus Christ. For the “stone” as a symbol of Christ see on Matt. 16:18. Peter anticipates his quotation in v. 6 of a prophecy concerning Jesus as the “chief corner stone” of the church. Compare Peter’s emphasis on the “living hope” (see on ch. 1:3) and the word “which liveth” (v. 23).

Disallowed. Gr. apodokimazo, “to reject after testing,” because of a failure to measure up to specifications. Men looked upon Christ, examined Him, and considered Him lacking in the qualities they desired in the Messiah, and therefore rejected Him as the Saviour. The Jewish nation made that decision, as many individuals of many nations have since that time (cf. Acts 4:11).

Chosen of God. Gr. eklektos (see on ch. 1:2). Although men in general repudiated Christ, God recognized Him as fulfilling all the requirements for being man’s sinless substitute.

Precious. Or, “honoured,” “prized,” “valued,” because of qualities possessed.