Ephesians 2:14-18 “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the Law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.”
Pastor Herk continues: And just because we have a vertical relationship with God doesn’t mean that we can erect horizontal walls as a relationship barrier to others. Yet, there are times that Christians must construct walls between unbelievers. Because they are not followers of Christ, they are not going to follow God’s Word, Will or Way in their thoughts, words and actions. But, do not put up unnecessary dividing walls that might keep those people from being introduced to the Savior of the World, the Prince of Peace, Lord Jesus Christ. By the Great Commission, always be available for opportunities to reaching the “lost in sin and unbelief” with the Gospel of Salvation, pointing to the foot of the Cross for their redemption, giving them the opportunity to tear down the vertical wall that separates them from God. No God, no peace / Know God, know peace.
Psalm 85:9-11 “Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, that glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed.
Truth shall spring out of the earth, and righteousness shall look down from heaven.”
(2) The second thing that we can do is let God tear down the wall that separates us from others. Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” The word “peace” in Greek & Hebrew is šālôm and means completeness; safety and soundness in body; welfare, good health and prosperity; quiet in soul, tranquility and contentment; peaceful friendship of human relationships and with God especially in covenant relationship. All the action of tearing down walls by human construct is by God for peace. Vertical walls first, then horizontal walls second. Yet, we can certainly impact how God works in our lives by being humble and willing.
God doesn’t transform the “unsaved: to be like the “saved”, but to be like Jesus. The Lord confirms in John 14:7 saying, “If you really know me, you will know my Father as well.” That starts by finding our identity in Jesus Christ as Christ-following disciples. Isaiah 9:6 foretold of Christ the Messiah, “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Jesus’ purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. We are all one blood in Adam and Eve anyway.
John 1:12-13 “As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of a man, but of God.”
When we repent of sin and accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, we are reconciled, transformed, regenerated; a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” We live in a world today where people identify themselves by some characteristic or distinguishing feature (race, political party, denomination, personality trait, economic class or education level). No wonder that society is so divided. Jesus came to tear down all those walls and His desire is that we find our identity, not in any other group, but we find our identity in Him, one people and nation under God with liberty and justice for all; blameless, righteous and holy. Psalm 37:37 “Mark the blameless man, and observe the upright; For the future of that man is peace.”
In Christ, Brian
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