What does Peter mean with the instruction to “honor everyone”?

Peter’s readers, though “sojourners and exiles” (1 Peter 2:11), live in normal human society “in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia” (1 Peter 1:1). Since they are by God’s ordinance “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession” (1 Peter 2:9), would it be acceptable for them to treat those around them as “sojourners and exiles,” as bottom feeders in their circles? Should they think of themselves as superior to the spiritually unborn of town?? Peter is insistent: No! Though they may themselves be dishonoured in town, they need to make a point of honouring everyone. This is Jesus’ instruction in Luke 6:27–30, climaxing in this command: “And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” Their God-given identity sets them free to honour (serve) their neighbour.