Ephesians 2:14-19 - Homiletics

Christ and his work of reconciliation. Here we have three topics:

I. CHRIST OUR PEACE . Observe the several statements ( Ephesians 2:14-17 ).

1. He made both Jew and Gentile one (see Exposition).

2. He broke down the middle wall of partition.

3. He abolished the cause of enmity between Jew and Gentile—the Law of commandments in ordinances.

4. He constituted himself a new Man, to which both Jew and Gentile belong.

5. He thereby reconciled both to God.

6. All this he effected by his cross.

7. He not only effected it, but came and preached peace to the far off and the nigh. The idea conveyed is that no single thing was left undone that could contribute to the great double result of reconciling Jew and Gentile, first to God, and thereby to each other. Thus reconciliation to God effects reconciliation between man and man, as sometimes a child, mutually beloved, may effect reconciliation of parents after a difference.

II. CHRIST AS OUR PEACE BRINGING US NIGH ( Ephesians 2:18 .)

1. True Christians have access to the Father.

2. This is secured meritoriously "through Christ."

3. And efficaciously "by the one Spirit."

How much is implied in having access to the Father! Access to his love, his wisdom, his transforming influence, his capacity of satisfying the soul in all its lawful propensities, and blessing it forever!

III. SUMMING UP . ( Ephesians 2:19 .) The relation established with God is not a temporary or occasional one, but close, abiding, indestructible. The reconciliation is effected, not for a day, but for evermore ( Romans 8:35-39 ).