a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense. Those who stumble at the word, are disobedient unbelievers, to which, therefore, they were appointed:

who formerly were not a people, but now are a people of God; who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

Besides, to this you were called; for even Christ suffered for us, leaving us a pattern, that you should follow his footsteps;

For you were as sheep going astray, but are now returned to the Shepherd, and Overseer of your souls.

not returning evil for evil, or railing for railing; but, on the contrary, bless: knowing that to this you were called, that you might inherit the blessing.

who formerly were disobedient, when the patience of God once waited, in the days of Noah, while an ark was preparing, in which few, that is, eight souls, were effectually saved through water-