What does Ephesians 2:13 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 2:13 refers to the reconciliation and unification of all peoples through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

"But now in Christ Jesus" signifies a change in the state of affairs for the audience. Those who were once "far off" refers symbolically to the Gentiles, non-Jewish people who were considered distant from the covenant and promises given by God to Israel.

The phrase "are made nigh" indicates that through Jesus' sacrificial death, the distance has been closed, and Gentiles are now brought near to God.

The "blood of Christ" underscores the significance of Jesus' atoning death on the cross, which is the means by which this reconciliation is made possible.

Historical Context

Ephesians was written by the Apostle Paul, around A.D. 60-62, when Paul was likely under house arrest in Rome.

During this time, the early church was grappling with the question of how Jews and Gentiles should relate within the body of Christ.

The Jewish people had a covenant relationship with God and followed the Mosaic Law, while the Gentiles did not share this heritage.

Consequently, there were deep cultural and religious divides.

This verse reflects the understanding that Jesus' work on the cross has broken down those divisions, allowing for a new, unified community of believers.

Theological Insights

The verse presents several important theological insights.

Firstly, it emphasizes the centrality of Christ's work in salvation - it is through Jesus that people are brought near to God.

Secondly, the verse speaks to the doctrine of the atonement: Christ's sacrifice is seen as effectively paying the penalty for sin and bridging the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity.

From a Reformed perspective, it upholds the doctrine of grace, stating that salvation is not based on human effort but on Christ's sacrificial death.

A Catholic perspective would similarly emphasize the grace conferred through Christ's sacrifice while also integrating this into the broader sacramental system.

An Anglican or Methodist viewpoint might apply a more inclusivist interpretation, emphasizing God's grace at work in reconciling all of humanity to Himself through Christ.

Practical Applications

Practically, Ephesians 2:13 can inspire believers to live in unity, transcending racial, cultural, and social barriers as all are one in Christ.

It also encourages individuals to appreciate the depth of God's grace and respond in worship and service, recognizing the magnitude of what it means to be brought near to God.

The verse can serve as a reminder of the peace and reconciliation every believer has access to, and therefore, can fuel efforts towards peacemaking and reconciliation in the world.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 2:19 , "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;"
• Colossians 1:20 , "And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven."
• Romans 3:25 , "Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;"
• Hebrews 10:19 , "Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,"
• Isaiah 57:19 , "I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the LORD; and I will heal him."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text include "τῷ αἵματι" (tō haimati), which translates as "by the blood." Blood (αἷμα - haima) in biblical terms often refers to life and sacrifice.

The phrase "οἱ ποντε στε" (hoi pote estē), translated as "ye who sometimes were", indicates a past condition.

Finally, "ἐγενήθητε ἐγγύς" (egenēthēte engys), "are made nigh", where "ἐγγύς" (engys) conveys the sense of proximity or nearness, and underscores the transformation from a state of separation to one of closeness to God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing this message to other ancient religious expressions, the concept of being brought near to a deity through sacrifice can be seen in various systems.

However, many ancient religions involved a repeated process of sacrifices to appease gods, while in Christianity, the notion is that of a singular, sufficient sacrifice.

Religious rituals among the Greeks or Romans often involved purification through blood, but these differed significantly from the Christian assertion of a moral and spiritual purification through the sacrificial death of Christ.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives primarily deal with the physical world; thus, they do not directly comment on the theological assertions about spiritual reconciliation and the meaning of blood in a sacrificial, redemptive sense.

However, the psychological and social effects of believing in a transcendent act that brings about reconciliation and unity can be studied. Research in psychology might explore how such beliefs influence personal well-being or social harmony.

Commentaries

Commentaries offer a diverse range of interpretations for Ephesians 2:13.

Many commentaries echo the themes of unity and reconciliation found in Pauline theology.

For instance, the Expositor's Bible Commentary emphasizes that Christ's death removed the barriers between Jews and Gentiles, creating one new humanity.

Matthew Henry's Commentary reflects on the mercy of God in extending the promise of salvation to the Gentiles.

John Stott, in his writings, points out the revolutionary nature of this unification, how it upset social norms and prejudices of the day by offering equal access to God's salvation.

These varied perspectives enrich the understanding of the verse, highlighting its historical significance and enduring relevance for contemporary faith.