What does Ephesians 2:15 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 2:15 speaks of the work of Christ on the cross where He is said to have abolished the enmity between Jew and Gentile that was upheld by the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, or legal decrees.

In doing so, He created a new entity, a 'new man', which is often understood to represent the Church, composed of both Jews and Gentiles reconciled into one body.

This verse emphasizes the idea that Christ's purpose was to create unity and peace among those who were previously divided, effectively forming a new community of believers based on faith rather than cultural or legal distinctions.

Historical Context

This passage was written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Ephesus, a city in modern-day Turkey, in the first century CE.

Ephesus was a significant commercial and religious center, hosting a population that was both Jew and Gentile.

In this context, Jewish laws and Gentile freedoms could create division and hostility.

Paul writes to address these tensions highlighting the transformative work of Christ for all believers, regardless of their background.

The Law, with its commandments and circumcision, had historically separated Jews from Gentiles, but Paul argues that in Jesus, such distinctions are made obsolete.

Theological Insights

The idea that Christ has abolished the "law of commandments contained in ordinances" has been understood in different ways.

Some interpret this as the end of the ceremonial law (such as circumcision and dietary restrictions).

Others argue it represents the cessation of the law's accusatory function, as Christ has fulfilled it.

There is also an eschatological view suggesting that it points to the ultimate unity of God's people in Christ.

Another key theological insight is the concept of reconciliation and the creation of the "new man." In Christian theology, this is a cornerstone of the understanding of the church, which serves as a single body uniting diverse peoples.

This is foundational to the Christian teaching about the universal availability of salvation and the breaking down of barriers between different groups of people.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, this verse can encourage believers to embrace unity and reject divisions that culture, society, or personal preferences might otherwise impose.

It can foster a mindset of inclusivity and peace within the church community, urging members to view each other through the lens of their identity in Christ rather than through ethnic, social, or cultural differences.

Cross-References

• Galatians 3:28 – "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."
• Colossians 3:11 – "Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all."
• Romans 10:12 – "For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him."

Language Study

The Greek term for "having abolished" (καταργέω, katargeo) can mean to render inoperative, to annul, or to make of no effect.

The word for "enmity" (ἔχθρα, echthra) refers to hostility.

"Ordinances" (δόγμα, dogma) in this context are the decrees found in the Mosaic Law that distinguished Jews from Gentiles.

Understanding these Greek terms deepens our insight into how radical the transformation was which Paul speaks of – a move from division and hostility to reconciliation and peace.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

A comparison can be made with ancient barriers that separated groups within societies, such as the divide between patricians and plebeians in Rome.

Religiously, this concept parallels the idea of bridging differences found in some other spiritual traditions, though the Christian concept is uniquely centered on Jesus' atoning work.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the idea of breaking down barriers could be reflected in studies around social cohesion, the benefits of inclusivity, and the psychological impacts of feeling part of a larger community.

However, there is no direct scientific analogy to the spiritual and supernatural reconciliation described by Paul in Ephesians.

Commentaries

Commentators through history have provided various insights into Ephesians 2:15.

John Stott sees it as a radical new beginning where the slate is wiped clean for all to start afresh.

Matthew Henry comments on the inclusiveness of the Gospel, noting that the separation between Jews and Gentiles is broken down in Christ.

Contemporary commentators often emphasize the social implications, suggesting this verse helps guide Christians on issues of racial divisions and the inclusivity of the Gospel.