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Welcome to Day 4 of our journey through Ephesians! Today, we delve into Ephesians 2:11-22, where Paul addresses the theme of unity in Christ. This passage emphasizes the reconciliation brought about by Christ, breaking down the barriers that once divided Jews and Gentiles, and creating one new humanity.
Reconciliation through Christ
Paul begins by reminding the Gentile believers of their previous status. In Ephesians 2:11-12, he writes, “Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called ‘uncircumcised’ by those who call themselves ‘the circumcision’… remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.” The Gentiles were once alienated from God’s people and His promises.
Breaking Down Barriers
The turning point comes with Christ’s intervention. In Ephesians 2:13-14, Paul states, “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” Christ’s sacrifice brought peace and unity, breaking down the walls that divided humanity.
One New Humanity
Paul explains that through Christ’s death, the enmity between Jews and Gentiles has been abolished, creating one new humanity. In Ephesians 2:15-16, he writes, “His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.” This new humanity is characterized by unity and peace, reflecting the reconciliation accomplished by Christ.
The Household of God
Paul further describes the unity of believers using the metaphor of a household. In Ephesians 2:19-22, he writes, “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.”
This imagery highlights the intimate and unified nature of the church, with Christ as the cornerstone and believers as integral parts of this spiritual building. We are not only reconciled to God but also to one another, forming a unified community that reflects God’s presence.
Conclusion
Ephesians 2:11-22 emphasizes the profound unity we have in Christ. Through His sacrifice, the barriers that once divided humanity are destroyed, and we are brought together as one new humanity in Christ. This unity is foundational to our identity and mission as the church.
Call to Action: Discuss a time when you experienced or contributed to unity within your church or community. What impact did it have? Share your stories and insights in the comments below.
Join us tomorrow as we explore Ephesians 3 and the revelation of the mystery of the gospel. Our journey through Ephesians continues to uncover the richness of our identity and purpose in Christ.