Scripture Reading (KJV)

Ephesians 2:11-22 11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: 13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; 15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: 17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

### Study Summary

This Bible study delves into Ephesians 2:11-22, a passage that highlights the profound transformation brought about by Christ's work in reconciling both Jews and Gentiles. The study begins by recalling previous teachings on God's work in salvation, emphasizing election, redemption, regeneration, and sealing. The focus then shifts to the unity of Jew and Gentile in Christ, a key theme in this passage.

Ephesians 2:11-12 describes the Gentiles as once being separated from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise. However, Ephesians 2:13-16 reveals that Christ has bridged this gap, making both Jew and Gentile one in Him. The enmity between them has been abolished, and they now have access to the Father through the Spirit, as mentioned in Ephesians 2:17-18. This unity is further emphasized in Ephesians 2:19-22, where the Gentiles are described as now being fellow citizens with the saints, part of God's household, and built into a holy temple in the Lord.

The study uses the Grand Canyon as an analogy to illustrate the vast chasm between Jew and Gentile, which Christ has brought together. This transition from a physical temple to a spiritual temple, where believers are living stones, underscores the importance of every believer being a priest, offering spiritual sacrifices as described in 1 Peter 2:1-5. The local church is highlighted as the dwelling place of God, where believers gather to worship and offer spiritual sacrifices.

Questions and answers further explore the differences between the Old and New Covenants, emphasizing that the New Covenant abolishes the enmity and barriers between Jew and Gentile, making them one in Christ. The significance of the temple imagery in Ephesians 2 is discussed, signifying that believers are now the temple of God, offering spiritual sacrifices and being a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit. The concept of every believer being a priest, offering spiritual sacrifices to God, is also emphasized.

The study concludes with a focus on the importance of peace and unity in the church, emphasizing the foundation of Christ and the doctrine of the apostles and prophets. Prayer requests are made for various individuals, including Autumn, Levi, Steve and Marilyn, Sandy, Brian, Anne, Jennifer, and Todd, covering a range of needs from spiritual growth to healing and safe travel. ==========