“…you were without…hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus, you were were far away have been brought near by the blood of the Messiah. For He is our peace…”
Ephesians 2:12-14
The entire premise of studying Ephesians through the lens of grace came from this portion of this chapter in verse 15, “…so that He might create in Himself one new man from the two, RESULTING IN PEACE.” That idea that grace resulted in something more than just grace, as if that weren’t enough, God went bigger than that. The peace that came through God’s grace brought reconciliation to the forefront and death, well, back where it came from. “When the Messiah came [in grace and truth], He proclaimed the good news of peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.” (Ephesians 2:17).
Before there was Jesus, there were two groups, the Jews and the Gentiles. The Jews had access to God through the order of their priests, so they were able to be made right with God and receive forgiveness of their sins; the Gentiles did not enter in to these religious practices. But Jesus came to bring an end to this hostility. His actions were to bring all people’s together, offering them the same gift so all could come to repentance. He gave both access by one Spirit. They became citizens of the same Kingdom with Christ Jesus being the Cornerstone. As you can imagine after reading verses 11-22, this was not easily accepted by leading Jews. Paul fought this unity throughout the entire New Testament. But it didn’t change the fact that Jesus came to reconcile the lost and to bring us in through the Spirit of adoption as sons and daughters of God.
Because of Jesus’ sacrifice the fight was allowed to end. There was no more differentiating, so there was no more reason to be hostile. It was time to allow grace to rule the day.
Unity allows for the church to work as a healthy body, all parts functioning as one, but also in its own beautiful individuality. God had to offer up His son in order to bring this promise to pass. The division of the Israelites and “foreigners” had to undergo a metamorphosis and become something new, in order that all of humanity would find redemption. Ultimate peace.
Consider the benefits of peace as described in this portion of scripture. We are all of God’s household and we grow together in order to dwell in God’s holy sanctuary by the Spirit. Without ever deserving it, without having to earn that place. That is grace.
Praying you Brave Grace as you continue studying Ephesians this week!
To study on Your Own:
- Read Ephesians 3 every day this week. C’mon, do it!!!
- Be on the look out for the results of grace. See if you are able to pinpoint something new
- Begin memorizing Ephesians 3:14-21
- Share your thoughts below about something that God spoke to you while you’ve been studying Ephesians.
- If you don’t have a good study Bible or study supplies hop on over to our Bible Study Supplies page and see what we suggest; links are available for your convenience.
Braving Grace 