These verses from the book of Ephesians are profoundly significant, addressing themes of reconciliation, unity, and the transformative power of Christ's work on the cross. Let's explore the rich meaning and significance of these verses in a personal and contemplative manner:
1. Christ as Our Peace
Verse 14 begins with a powerful declaration: "For he is our peace." Here, the apostle Paul identifies Jesus Christ as the source and embodiment of peace. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus has made it possible for humanity to experience true peace—peace with God and peace with one another.
2. Breaking Down Barriers
The passage goes on to describe how Christ "made both one" and "broke down the middle wall of partition." In the context of the ancient world, this imagery would have been particularly significant. The "middle wall of partition" likely referred to the physical barrier in the temple that separated Jews and Gentiles. Christ's work on the cross shattered this barrier, signifying the removal of divisions and hostilities between different groups of people.
3. Abolishing Hostility and Law
Verse 15 explains that Christ "abolished in the flesh the hostility" and "the law of commandments contained in ordinances." This speaks to the reconciliation not only between Jews and Gentiles but also between humanity and God. The law, which highlighted our separation from God due to sin, was fulfilled in Christ, who became the ultimate sacrifice for sin.
4. Creating One New Man
The ultimate purpose of Christ's work is to "create in himself one new man of the two, making peace." Through His redemptive work, Jesus brings about a new humanity, transcending the divisions and enmity that existed. This new humanity is characterized by unity, reconciliation, and peace.
5. Significance for Our Lives
The significance of Ephesians 2:14-15 carries profound implications for believers today:
Peace in Christ: Christ is not just the source of peace; He is our peace. In Him, we find reconciliation with God and the potential for harmonious relationships with others.
Breaking Down Divisions: Just as Christ broke down the barrier between Jews and Gentiles, we are called to break down divisions and prejudices in our own lives and communities, fostering unity and reconciliation.
Freedom from the Law: Christ's fulfillment of the law reminds us that we are no longer bound by legalistic requirements but are saved by grace through faith in Him.
One New Humanity: As part of the body of Christ, we are part of this "one new man." Our identity is found in our unity with believers from diverse backgrounds, transcending cultural, racial, and social differences.
In Ephesians 2:14-15, we are reminded of the profound impact of Christ's work on the cross. He is the source of our peace, the breaker of barriers, and the reconciler of humanity with God. As we contemplate these verses, may we seek to live out the message of reconciliation, unity, and peace in our own lives and communities, becoming instruments of Christ's transformative work in the world.
See also: Ephesians 2:13-18
Ephesians 2:14-15. For he is our peace, who made both one, and broke down the middle wall of partition, having abolished in the flesh the hostility, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man of the two, making peace.