CartEphesians 2:11-22: We Are One
MANY OF US have sung, "We are one in the Spirit; we are one in the Lord." But we also continue to find ourselves at odds with Christians who believe or live differently than we do. Such problems were just as common in Paul's day as in ours.
Warming Up to God
Consider what groups of Christians you disagree with or have trouble getting along with. Reflect on what causes these tensions. Ask God to open your mind and heart so that you can develop understanding.
Read Ephesians 2:11-22. »
Discovering the Word
- Paul uses vivid imagery in this passage. What are some of these images?
- What divided Gentiles from Jews (vv. 11-13)?
- How are the two reconciliations Christ achieves related (vv. 14-18)?
- How do the images Paul uses in verses 19-22 emphasize the unity Christians have with one another?
Applying the Word
- What kinds of name-calling (perhaps even using biblical terms) do Christians in your church engage in?
- What rules and requirements would you be inclined to enforce (like the law in verse 15) that might hinder people from coming into the kingdom?
- What practical first step toward unity with another Christian can you take in the next week?
Responding in Prayer
Pray for unity in the church, that people would not be turned away from Christ by Christians who don't get along with each other.
For Further Study
One Faith by J. I. Packer & Thomas C. Oden