Who Am I? Finding Myself in the Fullness of Christ: A Study in Ephesians 1-2Shembull

KILLING HOSTILITY

Paul pivots in this fascinating little section of Ephesians to remind everyone in his audience that no matter who they are (Gentile or Jew), there is no longer any barrier dividing them. Literally! In Jerusalem, only Jewish visitors to the Temple could enter the inner courtyard. There was literally a wall or railing that kept Gentiles confined to an outer area. But through the work of Jesus, that barrier is destroyed, and Jew and Gentile are now one, both members of the Church, the body of Christ.

Christ came to kill the hostility that separated men and women from one another and from God. Christ came to reconcile, restore, and bring peace.

Ask Yourself: Where is there hostility in your relationships with other people? Do you sense any hostility in your relationship with God? Are you hostile toward yourself?

Pause to Pray: Thank you, Jesus, for bringing peace and ending hostility. You made a way to be in a relationship with God and with one another. Remove any shame, anger, or pride from my heart so that I might live in peace and share your peace with others… Amen.

Take a Next Step: As you think about who you were, who you are, and who you want to be, how are your relationships tangled up in your identity and calling? Do past hurts mar your self-perception? Does shame hold you back from dreaming big? In what areas do you need to invite Christ to kill the hostility and sow the seeds of peace?