Ephesians 2:11-22

As Jordan mentioned, it is helpful to be reminded of our state before Christ's initiating our redemption. The words "at one time" and "you were at that time" point towards something past; something that was, but is not any longer. It is helpful to remember our condition before conversion. It makes it possible to appreciate the grace we are freely given. "Remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world." This is who we were. But we do not lose hope when reading verses eleven and twelve. When seeing those words "at one time" and "you were at that time" in the text, one cannot help but see hope; because what is mentioned in those verses is not the case any longer, for we were "created in Christ" (2:10). The words "in Christ" and other similar phrases have already been used many times in just the first two chapters of Ephesians. Paul repeats this thought constantly throughout the book because it is one that can quickly depart from us, leaving us subject to pride. We also see the contrast of the old and the new covenant. "at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called 'the circumcision' by what is called circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands." We see a glimpse of the old covenant here. Now, let us look at the new covenant in Christ. "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ." Verse 15-16 also discusses it. "abolishing the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility." Again in verse 18. "For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father." I found it quite exciting to see the old and new covenant discussed briefly here.

Just as this encouraged and excited my soul,I hope and pray that this encourages you in some way. I look forward to tomorrow.