Week 2: The Upside-Down KingdomUzorak

One of the most shocking things Jesus revealed about God’s kingdom is that it was for all people – Jews and Greeks, slaves and free, men, women and children. His selfless love broke down the barriers mankind had created to segregate themselves. The Gospel is the definition of inclusivity, that no matter your ethnicity, culture, or socioeconomic status, you have a place in God’s family.

This message becomes more scandalous once we understand the implications it had in Jesus’ time on Earth. Jews, or the descendants of Israel who lived according to the Law of Moses, often separated themselves from Gentiles in an effort to remain protected from impure influences. However, this caution also created a superiority complex among some of the Jews, believing that they alone were set to receive the Messiah.

The Gospel Jesus brought to the world unified everyone who was willing to fall under his kingship, regardless of their lineage or prior beliefs. As citizens of God’s upside down kingdom, we are equally forgiven and called. We were scattered and broken, but now we are one people made whole.

As you read the following verses, notice the common ground that Jesus created: peace. He came so that we may find peace with God, ourselves, and each other.

Read Ephesians 2:11-22

Reflection Questions

1. How is God speaking to me through these verses?
2. What does this set of verses teach me about God?
3. What does this show me about the good news of Jesus?
4. How can I apply what I read today?