Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

In a world filled with uncertainty, where hope often feels like a fleeting emotion, it is vital to anchor ourselves in the truth of our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:11-22 offers a powerful revelation of who we are as believers and the profound implications of our identity in Christ. This scripture not only reveals our past state of alienation from God but also highlights the magnitude of the reconciliation we experience through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus. In this blog post, we will explore these verses deeply and understand the spiritual inheritance that comes with believing in Jesus Christ.

From Separation to Reconciliation

The journey begins with an understanding of our former state, encapsulated in verses 11 and 12 of Ephesians 2:

“Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called ‘the uncircumcision’ by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands—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.” (Ephesians 2:11-12, ESV)
Before Christ, we lived in a spiritual wilderness, estranged from the very source of hope and life—having no relationship with our Creator. We were like visitors in a foreign land, unable to partake in the goodness of a life aligned with God’s will. To the Gentiles—the individuals who were not part of the Jewish promise—this separation was profoundly disheartening. The Jewish community was seen as “the chosen people,” while the Gentiles were left on the outskirts, longing for acceptance and belonging.
These verses remind us of our bleak condition without Jesus. We lived a life devoid of hope, isolated from the promises that God had made to His people—promises that include salvation, forgiveness, and an eternal relationship with Him. But hope is at the center of the Gospel, and that hope became tangible when Jesus entered our lives.

The Transformative Power of Christ

Verses 13 and 14 transition us from despair to hope:
“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility.” (Ephesians 2:13-14, ESV)
The blood of Christ, shed on the cross, ushers in a new beginning. No longer are we separated from God; we have been brought near. Christ becomes our peace, the bridge that reconciles us with the Father. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but represents a profound, intimate relationship with God—a relationship that allows us to dwell in His presence.
In the midst of the storms of life, this peace becomes our anchor. It is a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). When the world around us is swirling with chaos, we find comfort in knowing that our Savior reigns and directs our paths. It is this intimate relationship with Christ that transforms our experience of life—whether we are celebrating the good times or enduring the challenges.

Our New Identity in God

This intimate relationship through Christ leads us to an incredible revelation of our new identity. Ephesians 2:19-22 illustrates this transformation:
“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.” (Ephesians 2:19-22, ESV)
As followers of Christ, we are no longer outsiders; we have become members of His household. This is not just a superficial change; it is a fundamental transformation in our identity. We are fellow citizens with the saints, granted full access to the very presence of God. The barriers that once separated us from His love and grace have been dismantled, replaced by a family bond that reflects His unconditional love.
By calling us “members of the household of God,” Paul emphasizes the familial aspect of our relationship with God. Just as in any family, we belong and are provided for; we take on the identity and character of our Father. We carry His peace, authority, and blessings because we are part of His family. Understanding this fundamental truth allows us to step into the full inheritance that is offered to us as children of God.

The Riches of Our Inheritance

As heirs of God, what exactly do we inherit? The New Testament is replete with promises that outline our spiritual inheritance. In 1 Peter 1:3-5, we are reminded:
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.” (1 Peter 1:3-4, ESV)
Our inheritance is not limited to earthly blessings; it is eternal, imperishable, and protected by God. This inheritance includes forgiveness, salvation, righteousness, and eternal life. As Romans 8:17 states, we are co-heirs with Christ, sharing in His glory and authority. This means that through Christ, we unlock a divine authority that allows us to overcome the challenges of this world.
Moreover, Galatians 3:29 declares:
“And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.” (Galatians 3:29, ESV)
All the promises made to Abraham, the father of faith, now belong to us. We receive the inheritance that comes from one faithful act of obedience. This means we are not merely spectators to God’s promises; we are participants in His ongoing redemptive plan. Just as Abraham received the promise of countless descendants, we too can confidently claim our part in God’s family.

Walking in Authority

Understanding our identity and inheritance as children of God invites us to live differently. In Christ, we have been given authority to overcome the world—an authority beautifully encapsulated in John 16:33:
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, ESV)
When we follow Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we gain full access not only to the kingdom of God here on earth but also to our royal inheritance in heaven. We can boldly approach the throne of grace knowing that our prayers are heard, our struggles are understood, and our lives are guided by the Holy Spirit.
Furthermore, our authority in Christ enables us to lead others to their promised land, just as the Israelites were led from slavery into the Promised Land. We are called to be salt and light in this world, extending the invitation to others to step into their identity and inheritance as children of God.

Conclusion: Embracing Our Inheritance

As we reflect on Ephesians 2:11-22, we see that our journey is one of transformation—from strangers to family; from hopelessness to peace; from living in fear to walking in authority. The blood of Jesus has made a way for us to enter into a position of intimacy and relationship with God, granting us access to our promised inheritance.
Are you ready to step into the inheritance that is rightfully yours as a child of God? Are you prepared to walk in the authority that Jesus has given you, knowing that you are more than a conqueror through Him? Our identity in Christ is not just a theological concept; it is a lived reality that empowers us to be agents of change in a world desperately in need of hope.
As we embrace our new identity and the promises that come with it, let us rise as the chosen insiders called to represent the Kingdom of God. May we boldly share the good news of Jesus Christ, lead others to experience the peace He offers, and encourage them to claim their rightful inheritance. With God as our Father, we are never alone—we are part of a great family, united in love and purpose—and together, we can make a lasting impact for His glory.
Let this message resonate in your heart as you revel in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the incredible inheritance He has prepared for you. You are a child of God, and your life is a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of His promises. Embrace who you are; walk confidently in your identity, and let His light shine through you!