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Ephesians 2:19-21 – “So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord.” (NASB)

Here the Apostle Paul is concluding an argument that God sent Jesus to make the Jews and Gentiles ONE in Christ. That doesn’t mean that we are not all uniquely and wonderfully made. It means that Jesus Christ wants to take up residence in everyone’s heart to where they’ll keep others best interest in mind, regardless of their ethnicity. Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil, wanting to end all hostility and making a way for peace where there is racism, tribalism, and prejudice. There is no Jew or Gentile in Christ. In Christ, we are one in heart and mind in terms of our desire to love God and one another because of His great love for us.

Anyone who is not a stranger and foreigner to God’s grace is to witness to others of heaven’s citizenship being made available in Christ. God wants everyone in His household. There is no border crisis in heaven and Christians need to work in accordance with God’s power to make sure His love and invitation is clear. The way we do this is to build our lives on the teachings of Christ and the apostles. When we are praying to Christ to grow in accordance with His Word, we are growing into a holy temple of His dwelling with one another, and the kingdom expands.

Rejoice if you’ve received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior! You are a citizen of God’s household that lasts forever. Now, continue to seek the things above and invite others to join you.

Prayer