The Far Off Nature of the Gentiles

• 11 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— ₒ Romans 2:25-29

• 12a remember that you were at that time separated from Christ,

• 12b alienated from the commonwealth of Israel

• 12c and strangers to the covenants of promise,

• 12d having no hope

• 12e and without God in the world.

The Means By Which Gentiles Are Brought Near

• 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

ₒ Ephesians 1:7

• 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility

ₒ Acts 21:27-31

• 15a by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances,

ₒ Matthew 5:17, 18

The Result of Bringing Gentiles Near

• 15b, 16 that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility.

ₒ Galatians 3:27-29

• 17, 18 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.

So What?

• Through Christ, people from all ethnic groups will be brought near to God.

ₒ Revelation 7:9, 10

Further Discussion

• Why was it necessary for Jesus to break down the dividing wall of hostility?

• Are we guilty of thinking the gospel is only for people who are like us?