Unity in Christ

Good morning, beloved family. Today, we continue our journey through Paul's epistle to the Ephesians, focusing on Chapter 2, verses 11 through 22. This passage beautifully illustrates the transformative power of Christ, uniting Jews and Gentiles into one new humanity. Let's delve into the text to uncover the richness of Paul's message about unity and reconciliation through Christ.

Context and Transition from Ephesians 2:1-10

Previously, in Ephesians 2:1-10, Paul emphasized how God's incredible power, the same power that raised Christ from the dead, transforms us from spiritual death to life. He highlighted our shared condition of sin and the universal need for God's grace, leading to our salvation through faith. This sets the stage for our current passage, where Paul shifts his focus to the unity and peace brought about through Christ.

Ephesians 2:11-13 (CSB)

Paul begins by addressing the Gentile believers, reminding them of their past alienation from God and the people of Israel. The term "uncircumcised" was a mark of their separation, both physically and spiritually. They were without Christ, alienated from God's promises, and devoid of hope. However, through Christ's sacrificial death, these barriers have been broken down. The blood of Christ has brought them near, reconciling them to God.

Paul's message is profound, emphasizing that the salvation Christ offers is not limited by ethnicity or previous religious affiliation. The division between Jews and Gentiles is abolished in Christ. His blood reconciles all who believe, bringing them into the family of God.

This passage echoes the theme of reconciliation found elsewhere in Paul’s writings. In Galatians 3:28, Paul declares, "There is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male and female; since you are all one in Christ Jesus" (CSB). The unity of believers in Christ transcends all earthly divisions.

Verse 14: "For he is our peace, who made both groups one and tore down the dividing wall of hostility. In his flesh,"

Paul introduces Jesus as our peace. “Peace” here is not merely a cessation of conflict but it is a comprehensive restoration of relationships. Jesus has made "both groups" (Jews and Gentiles) one, indicating a profound unity.

The "dividing wall of hostility" is a metaphorical expression that likely refers to the divisions enforced by the Jewish law, which separated Jews from Gentiles. This wall also evokes imagery of the temple in Jerusalem, where a literal wall separated Gentiles from entering the inner courts.

Verse 15: "He made of no effect the law consisting of commands and expressed in regulations, so that he might create in himself one new man from the two, resulting in peace."

In His flesh, Jesus rendered the law "of no effect." This doesn't mean He abolished the moral law but rather the ceremonial and civil laws that marked the separation between Jews and Gentiles. By fulfilling these laws, Jesus created "one new man from the two," signifying a new unified humanity. The old creation, ruined by sin, is marked by hostility. This new creation is characterized by peace, reflecting the harmony that Jesus' sacrifice brings.

Verse 16: "He did this so that he might reconcile both to God in one body through the cross by which he put the hostility to death."

The cross is central to this reconciliation. Jesus’ death put to death the hostility that existed, not only between Jews and Gentiles but also between humanity and God. Through the cross, Jesus reconciled both groups to God "in one body," symbolizing the Church, the unified body of Christ, or as Paul previously said, the fullness of Jesus.

Verse 17: "He came and proclaimed the good news of peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near."

Jesus' message of peace was universal. He preached peace to "those who were far away" (Gentiles) and "those who were near" (Jews). This proclamation highlights the inclusivity of the gospel and the breaking down of former divisions.

Verse 18: "For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father."

Through Christ, both Jews and Gentiles now have access to the Father "in one Spirit." This access signifies an intimate relationship with God, made possible by the Holy Spirit, who indwells all believers and unifies them.

Verse 19: "So then you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints, and members of God's household,"

Paul gives us a powerful declaration of identity. The Gentile believers, once "foreigners and strangers," are now "fellow citizens with the saints." This shift signifies their full inclusion in the people of God. The terms "foreigners" and "strangers" denote alienation and separation, but now, in Christ, they have become part of God's people.

“Fellow citizens with the saints” emphasizes their equal status in God's kingdom, alongside Jewish believers and all who are set apart. And “Members of God's household” goes beyond citizenship to a more intimate relationship. We aren’t merely members of a new kingdom, as if that wouldn’t be profound enough, but believers are family members in God's very household.

Verse 20: "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone."

The imagery shifts to that of a building. Paul describes the Church as a structure with a strong foundation.

“Foundation of the apostles and prophets” refers to the teachings and witness of the apostles and prophets, which form the doctrinal basis of the Church. “Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone” - The cornerstone is crucial in ancient building practices, determining the position and integrity of the entire structure. Jesus is depicted as the essential element that holds everything together.

Verse 21: "In him the whole building, being put together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord."

Paul continues with the building metaphor to describe the dynamic and organic nature of the Church.

“The whole building, being put together” signifies unity and cooperation among believers. “Grows into a holy temple in the Lord” is not merely structural but spiritual. The Church is depicted as a holy temple, signifying a sacred and dedicated place for God's presence.

Verse 22: "In him you are also being built together for God's dwelling in the Spirit."

Finally, Paul personalizes the metaphor for the Ephesian believers.

“You are also being built together” - Each believer is a vital part of this construction, emphasizing community and mutual edification. “For God's dwelling in the Spirit” - The ultimate purpose of this building is to be a dwelling place for God, highlighting the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church.

Conclusion

Beloved family, as we reflect on the richness of Paul's message in Ephesians 2:11-22, we are reminded of the profound unity and reconciliation brought through Jesus Christ. This unity transcends all earthly divisions, binding us together as one new humanity in Christ. We are no longer strangers and foreigners but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God's household. This new identity calls us to live in harmony, reflecting the peace and love of Christ in our daily lives.

As we go forth:

Cherish Your Identity: Remember and take to heart that you are a cherished member of God's household. Pray, asking God to help you be quick to let go of any feelings of isolation or inadequacy, and rest in the blessed assurance that you are fully embraced and deeply valued in God's family. You are not alone; you are a beloved child of God, chosen and precious in His sight. Embrace the warmth and security of belonging to His household, knowing that you are surrounded not only by brothers and sisters in Christ who share in this divine fellowship, but also by our elder brother, the Lord Jesus. Allow this truth to fill your heart with peace and joy, as you walk confidently in the love and acceptance of your Heavenly Father through Christ. Foster Unity: Actively seek to promote unity within our community and beyond. Let us be marked by and known for our unity, reflecting the love and grace of Christ in all our relationships. Reach out to those who may feel marginalized or excluded, offering them the same love and acceptance that Christ has shown us. Let us be agents of reconciliation, bridging gaps and mending divisions wherever they exist. Whether within our church walls or in the broader world, strive to build connections, heal wounds, and create a spirit of harmony and peace. By doing so, we bear witness to the transformative power of the gospel and the unity it brings to all believers. Stand Firm on the Foundation: Ground your faith in the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone. Let His teachings guide your thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. At Harbinger Gospel Church, we hold many doctrines with open hands, recognizing that unity in the essentials of our faith is paramount. However, this does not diminish the importance of doctrine or the accessibility of truth. It is vital that we are diligent students of the Word, continually seeking to grow in our understanding and application of biblical truths. Commit to reading the scriptures regularly, immersing yourself in the rich teachings of the Bible. Engage with books and resources that deepen your knowledge of the faith. But more importantly, don't just read, but meditate. I encourage you to read often, but make it a priority to meditate each day. Let the truths of scripture take root in your heart, transforming your mind and shaping your daily life. As Psalm 1:1-2 (CSB) reminds us, "How happy is the one who does not walk in the advice of the wicked or stand in the pathway with sinners or sit in the company of mockers! Instead, his delight is in the LORD's instruction, and he meditates on it day and night." Be a Living Temple: Understand that as a believer, you are part of a holy temple where God's Spirit dwells. This profound truth calls us to live in a way that reflects our sacred calling. Each of us, individually and collectively, are the dwelling place of God’s Spirit. This reality imbues our everyday lives with deep spiritual significance and purpose. Recognize that you are a vessel of God’s presence. This means that every action, word, and thought is an opportunity to reflect the holiness and love of our Heavenly Father. Just as the physical temple was a place of worship and encounter with God, your life is now a living sanctuary where others can experience His presence through you. Let your life be marked by the attributes of Christ. Show love to all you encounter, offering compassion and kindness without prejudice. Extend grace, understanding that everyone is on their own journey and in need of the same mercy you have received. Promote peace, being a calming and reconciling presence in a world often filled with conflict and division. Remember Jesus' words in Matthew 5:16 (CSB): "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven."

Prayer

Let us close in prayer, asking God to help us live out these truths in our lives:

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the profound unity and reconciliation that we have through Jesus Christ. We are grateful that we are no longer strangers and foreigners but fellow citizens with the saints and members of Your household. Help us to embrace our identity in Christ fully and to live in a way that reflects the peace and unity He has brought.

Lord, we ask for Your help in fostering unity within our community. Open our eyes to see those who feel marginalized and give us the courage to reach out and extend Your love to them. Ground us firmly on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as our cornerstone. Guide our thoughts, words, and actions so that we may build each other up in love and unity.

As Your holy temple, may our lives be a dwelling place for Your Spirit. Fill us with Your presence, and let Your love flow through us to touch the lives of others. Help us to be instruments of Your peace, proclaiming the good news to those who are far and near.

We pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

Amen.

Go forth, dear family, in the unity and peace of Christ, living out your calling as members of God's household and His holy temple. May His Spirit dwell richly in you, guiding and strengthening you each day.