9 He saved+ us and called us with a holy calling,+ not by reason of our works,+ but by reason of his own purpose and undeserved kindness. This was given us in connection with Christ Jesus before times long lasting,*+

9 But YOU are “a chosen race,* a royal priesthood, a holy nation,+ a people for special possession,+ that YOU should declare abroad the excellencies”*+ of the one that called YOU out of darkness into his wonderful light.+