Ephesians 2:11-22: Unity in Christ
Introduction: The Walls That Divide Us
Walls. They’re everywhere. Some are physical, like the ones that separate nations or neighborhoods. Others are invisible but no less real—walls of race, class, culture, and even theology. These walls divide us, creating barriers that seem impossible to overcome.
But in Ephesians 2:11-22, the Apostle Paul declares that the gospel is a wrecking ball to every wall that separates us. Through Christ, Jews and Gentiles—two groups divided by centuries of hostility—are brought together as one new family. This passage isn’t just a historical footnote; it’s a blueprint for how the gospel can transform our relationships today. Let’s dive into this text and discover how the gospel breaks down walls and builds a new family.
Ephesians 2:11-22 Commentary: The Big Picture
Ephesians 2:11-22 is one of the most profound passages in the New Testament about unity in Christ. Paul begins by reminding the Gentile believers of their former separation from God and God’s people (vv. 11-12). He then reveals how Christ has broken down the dividing wall of hostility between Jews and Gentiles, creating one new humanity (vv. 13-18). Finally, he describes how this new humanity is being built into a holy temple, a dwelling place for God (vv. 19-22).
Andrew T. Lincoln, in his Word Biblical Commentary on Ephesians, describes this passage as a “theological masterpiece,” highlighting the cosmic scope of Christ’s reconciling work. Let’s break it down section by section and connect it to the broader biblical and Reformed tradition to deepen our understanding.
What Does Ephesians 2:11-22 Mean? Breaking It Down
1. The Division: Remembering Our Separation (Ephesians 2:11-12)
Paul begins by addressing the Gentile believers: “So then, remember that at one time you Gentiles by birth… were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world” (vv. 11-12).
These verses highlight the deep divide between Jews and Gentiles in the ancient world. The Jews were the recipients of the covenants and promises. The Gentiles, on the other hand, were outsiders, excluded from the blessings of Israel.
Clinton E. Arnold, in his Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on Ephesians, notes that this division was not just cultural or political; it was spiritual. The Gentiles were “without God” and “without hope,” cut off from the source of life and salvation.
This division is vividly illustrated in Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman (John 4:9). The Jews and Samaritans were bitter enemies, but Jesus broke down the wall of hostility by offering living water to an outsider.
Are there walls of division in your life—between you and someone else, or between groups of people? Take a moment to reflect on how the gospel can bring reconciliation.
2. The Reconciliation: Christ Our Peace (Ephesians 2:13-18)
Paul then reveals the turning point: “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (v. 13). Through his death on the cross, Christ has broken down the dividing wall of hostility and created one new humanity.
The imagery here is powerful. Paul describes Christ as “our peace” (v. 14), the one who reconciles us to God and to one another. He also refers to the “law of commandments and ordinances” as the wall that separated Jews and Gentiles (v. 15). By fulfilling the law, Christ has abolished its divisive power and created a new way of relating to God and to one another.
Harold W. Hoehner, in his Ephesians: An Exegetical Commentary, emphasizes that this reconciliation is not just a spiritual reality; it has practical implications for how we live together as the church.
Read: The Three-Word Sermon: It Is Finished - The Gospel Versus Domination
How can you be a peacemaker in your church or community? Look for opportunities to bridge divides and promote unity.
3. The New Family: Citizens and Members of God’s Household (Ephesians 2:19-22)
Paul concludes by describing the new reality for both Jews and Gentiles: “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God” (v. 19).
This imagery is rich with meaning. As citizens, we belong to a new kingdom—the kingdom of God. As members of God’s household, we are part of a new family, united by our faith in Christ.
Paul then describes how this new family is being built into a holy temple, a dwelling place for God (vv. 20-22). The foundation of this temple is the apostles and prophets, with Christ himself as the cornerstone.
F.F. Bruce, in his commentary The Epistles to the Colossians, to Philemon, and to the Ephesians, explains that this imagery underscores the unity and holiness of the church. We are not just individuals saved by grace; we are part of something much larger—a spiritual house where God dwells.
In 1 Peter 2:4-5, Peter describes believers as “living stones” being built into a spiritual house. This echoes Paul’s imagery and reminds us that our unity in Christ is essential to God’s plan.
How does knowing you are part of God’s household change the way you view your relationships with other believers? Let this truth inspire you to live in unity and love.
Ephesians 2:11-22 Explained: Key Takeaways
The Division: Apart from Christ, we are separated from God and from one another.
The Reconciliation: Through his death on the cross, Christ has broken down the walls of hostility and created one new humanity.
The New Family: In Christ, we are citizens of God’s kingdom and members of God’s household, being built into a holy temple.
The Call to Unity: The gospel calls us to live in unity and love, reflecting the reconciling work of Christ.
Conclusion: The Gospel That Unites Us
Ephesians 2:11-22 is a powerful reminder that the gospel is not just about individual salvation; it’s about the creation of a new family. Through Christ, the walls that divide us are torn down, and we are brought together as one.
As you go about your week, remember that you are part of something much larger than yourself. You are a citizen of God’s kingdom, a member of God’s household, and a living stone in God’s temple. Let this truth inspire you to live in unity and love, reflecting the reconciling work of Christ to a divided wor
