In a world often divided by differences, the message of unity and reconciliation through Christ stands as a powerful beacon of hope. This transformative truth, rooted in the book of Ephesians, challenges us to reconsider our perspectives and embrace a new identity as members of God's family.
The journey begins with a stark reminder of our former state. Without Christ, we were "separate," "excluded," and "foreigners to the covenant of the promise, without hope and without God in the world" (Ephesians 2:12). This paints a bleak picture of humanity's condition apart from God's grace. Yet, the narrative doesn't end there. Through the blood of Christ, those who were once far away have been brought near (Ephesians 2:13). This miraculous transformation is not just a change of status but a complete reorientation of our identity and belonging.
The beauty of this new reality is captured in the powerful declaration: "Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of his household" (Ephesians 2:19). Imagine the profound impact of these words on the early believers, especially those from Gentile backgrounds who had previously been excluded from the promises of God. Now, they were not just invited guests but full members of God's family, with all the rights and privileges that entails.
But this message of inclusion and unity goes beyond simply welcoming outsiders into an existing structure. Christ's work on the cross did something far more radical – it created "one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace" (Ephesians 2:15). This new humanity transcends the old divisions, breaking down the "barrier, the dividing wall of hostility" (Ephesians 2:14) that had long separated Jew and Gentile.
While we may not face the exact same cultural divisions today, the principle remains profoundly relevant. We all have our own "dividing walls" – prejudices, biases, or lines we draw to separate "us" from "them." These might be based on denomination, political affiliation, or stance on controversial issues. We may outwardly profess inclusivity while inwardly harboring judgments or reservations about certain groups or individuals.
The challenging question we must ask ourselves is: Who do we consider "Gentiles" in our own context? Who are the people or groups we struggle to fully embrace as equal members of God's family? It's easy to quote Paul's words about being "the worst of sinners" (1 Timothy 1:15) until we encounter someone whose sins or lifestyle choices make us uncomfortable. At that point, our theoretical humility often gives way to subtle (or not-so-subtle) judgment.
This is where the radical nature of God's grace confronts our human tendency to create hierarchies and conditions. The Scripture reminds us that salvation is "by grace... through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9). If our salvation is entirely a gift, on what basis can we exclude or look down on others who have received the same gift?
The imagery of new birth, as Jesus describes in John 3:5-7, provides a helpful perspective. When someone comes to Christ, they are spiritually reborn – as vulnerable and new as an infant. Just as we celebrate every small milestone in a baby's development, we should rejoice in the spiritual growth of new believers, no matter how small the steps may seem. Our role is not to judge or criticize but to nurture and encourage, creating an environment where spiritual growth can flourish.
This attitude shift requires us to lay aside our own expectations and timelines for others' spiritual journeys. The Holy Spirit, described as the "Spirit of truth" who will "guide you into all truth" (John 16:13), is more than capable of convicting and transforming hearts without our help. Our primary calling is to love – first God, and then our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40). When we focus on fulfilling this commandment, everything else falls into place.
Embracing this inclusive, grace-centered approach doesn't mean ignoring sin or compromising truth. Rather, it means recognizing that we are all works in progress, saved by grace and being transformed by the power of God. It means creating a community that feels less like a museum for the righteous and more like a field day for spiritual toddlers – a place where every small victory is celebrated, where stumbles are met with encouragement rather than judgment, and where the joy of new life in Christ permeates everything.
As we reflect on these truths, let's challenge ourselves to see others through God's eyes. Who are the people or groups we struggle to fully embrace? What biases or prejudices might be hindering us from living out the unity Christ died to create? How can we practically demonstrate God's inclusive love to those who might feel like outsiders?
Remember, the church is not meant to be a exclusive club for the spiritually elite, but a diverse family united by God's grace. In Christ, there is no "us" and "them" – only a new humanity, reconciled to God and each other. As we internalize this truth, may it transform not just our theology but our attitudes, actions, and relationships. Let us be people who tear down walls instead of building them, who extend grace as freely as we've received it, and who celebrate the beautiful diversity of God's family.
In a world that often emphasizes our differences, let's be known for our unity in Christ. For in Him, we are no longer strangers, but fellow citizens, members of God's household, being built together into a dwelling place for God's Spirit. This is the miracle of reconciliation, the wonder of grace, and the calling we share as followers of Christ.