The writings of the New Testament show us how the early Church progressed in self-understanding. St Peter refers to the Church as "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a consecrated nation, a people set apart." Originally God spoke these words through Moses to Israel in the desert. They are a promise of graces which Israel would obtain by obeying God's word and living according to the Covenant (Exodus 19:5-6). By applying these words to the Church, Peter teaches us that we are the people with whom God has made a Covenant, the New Covenant in Jesus. Jesus was the chosen or beloved son of God, he is our great High-priest; we honour him as king. As "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a consecrated nation, a people set apart," we participate in the mission of Jesus on earth for every gift is a mission we must accomplish. We must therefore obey God's word and live according to the Covenant as God demanded of Israel in the desert. Jesus fulfilled these obligations by always doing what is pleasing to the Father (John 8:29) and being obedient unto death, even death on a cross (Philippians 2:8).