Ephesians 2:17-19

2:17

He – He, God of the universe, Creator, Guide, Adonai, the One, et al.,

came – Perhaps the most remarkable statement in history. This is more than a physical coming, although that is definitely true as well. When visitors come to my home, that is peer to peer visitation. No humbling involved then. But when “He came,” He transcended both the metaphysical barrier between His home and mine, as well as the spiritual barrier between His glory there and His humility here.

and preached – both in words and in action, attitude and spirit, He proclaimed. Not only as invitation, but also as announcement

peace – right relations between individuals or groups, although in this case between humankind and God the Father

to you who were far away – Non-religious and other-religious. I picture my friends from India, converts from Hinduism, who testify to finally finding peace with God.

and … to those who were near – We/I knew all the words of religious Christian practice, but did not know the peace. Now I wonder if I have grown so accustomed to this peace that I no longer recognize it. Or have I grown away from Him and this causes my unawareness of peace? I’m inclined to the former, but often wish for assurance.

2:18

For – Reason for above is found in what follows

through him – Means by which this is accomplished is Jesus Christ—His person and work

we both – Jew and Gentile, Religious and Irreligious and Other-religious

have access – Privilege of entry. This shocking statement counterpoints the opening of v. 17, “He came.” If it is incredible that He came, it is every bit as amazing that we have access. The Religious tend to lose sight of how astounding this is. I often succumb to the feeling that I am good enough to come into God’s presence. That very attitude—if nothing else—makes me unworthy. The Irreligious either gave up hope of access or lost desire for access.

to the father – To call Him Father here, instead of King or Majesty, moves the statement from amazing to intimate, which is somewhat incongruous. How incredible is that? The King who dwells in unapproachable light adopts us in and through Christ. He thereby changes the way we see Him. While He is still King of kings, we now see Him as Father.

by one Spirit – Paul is setting the stage to urge these Christian believers to live in unity.

2:19

Consequently – as a result of the foregoing

you are – present tense condition of Gentiles, Non-Christian-background believers

no longer – change in status, enjoy new position and condition and relationship with God and with God’s people

foreigners and aliens – unaccustomed to native ways; learn new language, customs and lifestyle

but – contrasting reality

fellow citizens – may not know the idioms, stories and customs, but still you are fellow citizens, with full rights and responsibilities, equal par with those who grew up in church

with God’s people – specifically the Jews as pictured by Paul, but as I’ve noted, this applies to those of us who were in church before we were born

and members – belonging, have an equal role with rights and responsibilities

of God’s household – household members have responsibilities. So with members of God’s household. Gentile/Irreligious converts also carry responsibilities in His household.