Adapted from Pastor Jim’s Sermon
3-minute Read
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.
Ephesians 2:17-18 (ESV)
In the heartbeats of Paul’s letters, there lies a profound purpose that is essential to Christians, showcased in these words. This passage captivates our spiritual senses and directs us towards the embodiment of peace in Jesus Christ.
The Essence of Peace in Christ
Peace is an elusive pursuit in our troubled world that finds its true residence not in external things but in the person of Jesus Christ. Prophesied in Isaiah and affirmed throughout the New Testament, the peace Christ offers transcends mere absence of conflict; it is a deep-seated tranquility rooted in reconciliation with God. Through His sacrifice, once estranged souls find friendship with the Creator, echoing Jesus’ words in John 15:15, “I call you friends.”
Our modern attempts to cultivate peace often miss this divine mark, focusing on self-help methods that, while beneficial, cannot substitute for the peace that surpasses all understanding. This peace is not a product of human effort but a gift from the One who fashioned our souls.
Bridging the Distances
Jesus preached peace to those both far and near, demolishing the barriers of hostility among us. His work on the cross serves as a bridge, not only reconciling us to God but also uniting us in a new humanity that transcends earthly divides. In this unity, we find a reflection of the kingdom of God, a diverse but singular body bound by the peace of Christ.
This unity is depicted in the image of Jesus dining with sinners and tax collectors, which shows His peace is inclusive and inviting to all to partake in the divine fellowship. The church, as a collective of redeemed sinners, embodies this peace and is continually growing through love and connectedness through the grace of Jesus.
Access Through Christ: Our Divine Commission
Ephesians 2:17-18 culminates in the proclamation that through Christ, we have access to the Father. This access is not a privilege for a select few but a shared gift to all believers, uniting us in the Spirit. The gospel of Jesus thus becomes a powerful force for peace, binding us together despite our differences and equipping us for the mission of spreading this peace.
As sent ones, we are commissioned to carry forward the message of peace in Jesus, demonstrating through our lives and actions the unifying power of His love. This mission invites us to share the table with our neighbors, coworkers, classmates, or anyone we come into contact with to extend the peace of Jesus to a world in desperate need.
Ephesians 2:17-18 beckons us to a life of mission, proclaiming peace in Jesus. In embracing this calling, we find not only the fulfillment of our deepest spiritual longings but also the power to transform the world around us. Let us, therefore, step forward as ambassadors of peace, united in Christ, and driven by the divine heartbeat of our shared commission.
All are welcome to learn more about this divine peace by visiting The Fount’s weekly meeting on Sunday, 10 am, at the Kansas City Club. Stay up to date with all our events, new blogs, and weekly encouragement by following us on Facebook and Instagram.
