“Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;”– Ephesians 2:11 (KJV)
“Don’t forget that you used to be outsiders. You were called uncircumcised heathens by the Jews, who were proud of their circumcision, even though it affected only their bodies and not their hearts.”– Ephesians 2:11 (NLT)
“But don’t take any of this for granted. It wasn’t long ago that you were estranged from God. You were in the thick of it, all the way up to your necks in sin, and from the faith that you knew about, you had no idea of what it meant to have the promise of life. You were the ones that God had kicked out of His family, without a clue of how to get back in.”– Ephesians 2:11 (MSG)
What Does Ephesians 2:11 Mean?
The verse Ephesians 2:11 invites us to reflect on our past and remember who we were before we came to know Christ. It’s a reminder that, according to the Apostle Paul, the Ephesians were once viewed as outsiders—Gentiles who didn’t belong to the chosen people of Israel. This verse paints a picture of separation from God and the blessings that came with being part of His covenant community.
When we consider the term “Gentiles,” we recognize it refers to non-Jewish people. Paul refers to himself as a Jew, and in this context, the Jews considered themselves privileged to hold a special status as God’s chosen people. The term “Uncircumcision” was often used derogatorily to demean those who were not part of the Jewish faith, highlighting the division existing during that time. Paul encourages the Ephesians to remember this distinction, which serves as a stark contrast to the grace they now experience through Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:11 Explanation and Commentary
As we unpack Ephesians 2:11 further, we must focus on the implications of being called “Uncircumcision” by those who consider themselves “Circumcision.” The term circumcision holds a deep ritualistic meaning in Jewish tradition, signifying a covenant relationship with God, while uncircumcision reflects a lack of this relationship. This distinction creates an “us vs. them” mentality. Today, we may not use these exact terms, but different labels continue to create divisions within our communities.
Paul’s use of the past tense “were” serves as a crucial reminder that the status of the Ephesians has changed. This speaks not merely of a physical condition but of a spiritual transformation. In Christ, those who once felt excluded are welcomed into a loving relationship with God. They have been invited into a community flourishing with love, hope, and acceptance, emphasizing the grace upon which the Christian faith rests.
Furthermore, the act of remembering is essential for us. It fosters gratitude in our hearts. We were once far from God, feeling disconnected, perhaps even abandoned. Our past experiences give us perspective and help us understand God’s incredible grace. This grace is not merely for individuals but is also for communities grappling with issues of identity. Just envision how our communities could change if we extended grace and inclusion to everyone, reflecting the unity that Christ offers.
As we further consider this verse, we find that it emphasizes the importance of reconciliation. Paul, throughout Ephesians, speaks of the wall that Jesus broke down, creating one new humanity where there had been division. This unifying message challenges us to reconsider how we view those around us. Though we may have different backgrounds, races, or beliefs, we are called to unity in love.
Context of Ephesians 2:11
When we look at the larger context of Ephesians 2:11, it’s vital to realize that the Apostle Paul is writing a letter to the church in Ephesus. At this time, the Christian community was comprised of both Jews and Gentiles, struggling to find their new identities together in Christ. Paul had previously relayed the message of God’s grace offered freely to both groups, emphasizing that salvation is not based on works, but on faith in Jesus Christ.
This historical backdrop paints a vivid picture of the divisions faced within the early church. Jews were accustomed to their covenant status, guiding them to look down upon those outside their community. The Ephesians, primarily Gentiles, may have felt out of place or unwelcome in the spiritual family to which Paul invites them. Paul’s reminder serves as both encouragement and instruction, a foundational step for believers to build bridges rather than walls.
In this part of the letter, Paul highlights a major theme of Ephesians, that of unity. The subsequent verses reinforce how Christ came to break down barriers, making it possible for all to be seen equally in the eyes of God. He explains that through Christ’s actions, we are no longer divided based on our human labels but are united as one body. This truth’s significance persists today, urging us to be intentional about inclusivity and love.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Ephesians 2:11
Breaking down Ephesians 2:11 allows us a clearer understanding of its message. The verse begins with “Wherefore remember,” well-placed because it sets the stage for recalling our previous lives. Remembrance doesn’t simply serve as a nostalgic exercise, but rather a vital act reflecting on how far we’ve come and the grace we now hold.
The phrase “in time past Gentiles in the flesh” emphasizes a physical reality tied to spiritual implications. Paul contrasts the reality of believing in Christ with the identification based on earthly means. He highlights, through the use of the term “Uncircumcision,” the prejudices that once governed how believers viewed each other.
When Paul speaks of the “Circumcision in the flesh made by hands,” he’s further illuminating the difference not just in actions, but in heart attitudes. He emphasizes that the true worthiness before God is not found in external rituals but rooted in faith and relationship. It’s a crucial teaching as we aim for a transformation that goes deeper than outward appearances, convincing us that our worth is found in being reconciled to God and one another.
The contextual layer is enriched when considering the key question: how does this apply to our lives today? The wall of division between various communities continues to exist. Like the early church, we still grapple with how to merge our identities, whether they be cultural, historical, or socio-economic. The call that Paul extends transcends time, inviting us into a faith community centered on love, acceptance, and reconciliation.
Lessons to Learn From Ephesians 2:11
As we seek to derive lessons from Ephesians 2:11, we learn that our identity in Christ is transformative. It’s essential for us to understand how our past does not define our present or future. In Christ, we are offered a new identity, one that reflects acceptance, love, and grace. This teaches us gratitude for what Christ has accomplished.
Recognizing the division present within the early church also prompts us to reflect on our contexts. What divides us today? Paul’s message leads us to consider how we can actively create space for others, fostering an atmosphere of inclusiveness, just as Christ did. It’s not enough to say we are “welcoming”—we must demonstrate that in ways that encourage genuine connection and engagement among diverse groups.
Paul reminds us of the necessity of remembrance. Taking time to remember where we came from can be a powerful tool in our spiritual journey. It assists us in cultivating an attitude of humility and compassion toward others. We recall our own struggles and extend grace to those who may also be seeking a way to come back into the fold.
Another crucial lesson embedded in Ephesians 2:11 is the beautiful work of God that transcends human barriers. It doesn’t matter how different we think we are; His love unites us all. Realizing that we are all part of the same family of believers helps dissolve prejudices and extends a heartfelt invitation to our communities. Love is the central message of the Gospel, echoing deeply within Paul’s instructions, leading us to build bridges instead of walls.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Ephesians 2:11 serves as a powerful reminder of the grace and transformation available to us through Christ. As we reflect on our identity and past, let us celebrate our inclusion into God’s family. We are called to be instruments of reconciliation, helping others feel included and wanted within our communities.
Remembering where we came from helps fuel our desire to extend love to others who may feel like outsiders. Together, we can foster an environment that reflects Christ’s love. May we embody compassion, and unity step by step, attempting to reshape our communities. There is great joy in recognizing that we all come from diverse backgrounds, yet strive toward a common goal of love in faith.
As we explore more about our faith and the teachings in the Bible, let us reflect on stories that speak of love, unity, and reconciliation. For further reading, consider 1 Corinthians 13:13 for a beautiful exploration of love, or an exploration of the stories in 1 Samuel 20 that depict friendship and loyalty. Let us continue to learn and grow together in Christ’s love.