One in Christ

Welcome brothers and sisters,

As we go over Saturday's sermon, we want to first give thanks to God for allowing us to share this great message of the Gospel of Peace.  We invite you to watch, share and as always check everything through the lens of the scriptures.  Don't forget to visit us in person each Saturday at 7pm for worship, fellowship and a meal afterward all starting at 7pm. 

Unity in Christ: A Reflection on Ephesians 2:11-22

In Ephesians 2:11-22, the Apostle Paul addresses a profound transformation that has taken place through Christ. This passage is a powerful reminder of the unity and peace that Jesus brings to all believers, breaking down the barriers that once divided us.

Remembering Our Past

Paul begins by urging the Gentile believers to remember their past. They were once “separated from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world” (Ephesians 2:12). This stark reminder serves to highlight the incredible change that has occurred through Jesus.

The Work of Christ

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Ephesians 2:13). This verse encapsulates the heart of the Gospel. Through His sacrifice, Jesus has reconciled us to God, bringing those who were far away near. This reconciliation is not just a personal transformation but a communal one, breaking down the walls of hostility between Jews and Gentiles.

Peace and Unity

Christ Himself is our peace. He has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility (Ephesians 2:14). By abolishing the law with its commandments and regulations, He created in Himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace (Ephesians 2:15). This new unity is a testament to the power of Christ’s work on the cross, which transcends all human divisions.

A New Community

In verses 19-22, Paul paints a picture of the new community that believers are now part of. “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household” (Ephesians 2:19). This new identity is 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 (Ephesians 2:20-21).

Conclusion

Ephesians 2:11-22 is a powerful reminder of the unity and peace that we have in Christ. It challenges us to live out this unity in our daily lives, breaking down the barriers that divide us and embracing our new identity as members of God’s household. As we reflect on this passage, let us strive to be peacemakers, bringing the message of reconciliation to a world in desperate need of it.

We hope you are blessed by this sermon, and continue to share it right along with us.  Don't hesitate to contact us for anything we can help you with in your Christian walk and until we meet again, lets go serve our King!

FRF Family