Ephesians 2:11-22
Ephesians, an epistle, addressed to Ephesus—a church cherished by Paul, holds tremendous significance. Early church oral traditions suggest Ephesus as the birthplace of the compiled Bible, underscoring its profound importance among the seven churches in Asia.
Paul’s initial discourse to the Ephesian church delves into predestination, as evident in Ephesians 1. This profound letter echoes the apostle’s resonance, offering insight into being “predestined.” Understanding predestination, historically, empowered individuals to accomplish extraordinary feats. Paul urges us to prioritize this understanding.
Ephesians 2, the following chatper’s directive is reconciliation—a theme that resonates throughout the chapter. Achieving harmony necessitates reconciliation, akin to addressing the estrangement highlighted in Romans 1:18—the rift between God and humanity. Restoring this relationship mirrors a couple’s transition from turning their backs on each other to facing each other in love. Christ’s role as the Peacemaker reconciles humanity with God—a central purpose of His advent, underlying our salvation. While salvation liberates us from “trespasses and sins,” ultimate peace and reconciliation remain pivotal.
How then do we reconcile? Paul asserts that the cross dismantles barriers, as evident in Ephesians 2:16, “And in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.” Christ’s crucifixion fosters reconciliation with God and obliterates enmity.
“By setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace,” Ephesians 2:15 emphasizes the cross’s role in creating a new entity, fostering peace. Christ’s work dismantles the walls of hostility within us—walls erected by misunderstanding, distrust and chiefly, baseless hatred. Understanding the cross eradicates unfounded hatred, unveiling the absence of any rational basis for animosity.
Paul’s citation of 1 Corinthians 15:55 illustrates how the Law’s sting exacerbates sins, but through the cross, Christ nullifies its power, fostering peace and unity. The Lord’s sacrifice unites disparate entities into one body, embodying the epitome of peace.
Understanding predestination and the transformative power of the cross formed the bedrock of Paul’s teachings, moreover, many of the Christian leaders of history, which should equally be applied to our spiritual journey as well.