No Longer Foreigners and Strangers, But Fellow Citizens: A Journey Toward Unity and Belonging

19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. (Ephesians 2:19-22)

The profound statement from Ephesians 2:19-22 emphasizes the unity and inclusion within the Christian community, transcending ethnic, cultural, and social boundaries. It reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, which brings people together in the body of Christ.

This Epistle was written to the early Christian communities in Ephesus and surrounding regions. These communities were composed of both Jewish and Gentile converts, who often struggled with questions of identity and belonging. The cultural and religious background of these groups varied significantly, leading to painful internal tensions and divisions.

Paul’s teachings aimed to address these issues by highlighting the unity that believers have in Christ. He emphasized that through Jesus’ sacrifice, the wall of separation between Jews and Gentiles had been broken down, and all believers were now part of one spiritual family. This message was prophetic and revolutionary, as it challenged the prevailing social norms and called for a redefinition of community and identity.

The phrase “No Longer Foreigners and Strangers” signifies the end of alienation and the beginning of a new relationship with God and fellow believers. In the ancient world, being a foreigner or stranger often meant being excluded from societal privileges and protections. By declaring that believers are now “fellow citizens,” Paul affirms their full inclusion and equal status in the kingdom of God.

One of the key theological themes in Ephesians is the unity of the church as the body of Christ. This unity is not based on uniformity but on the diverse gifts and backgrounds of its members, all brought together by the Holy Spirit. Each believer, regardless of their past, has a unique role to play in the community, contributing to its growth and flourishing.

Central to Paul’s message is the idea that reconciliation with God leads to reconciliation with others. Ephesians 2:14-16 elaborates on this by explaining that Christ has made peace between Jews and Gentiles, creating one new humanity. This reconciliation is not just a theoretical concept but has practical implications for how believers relate to one another, breaking down barriers of hostility and fostering genuine relationships.

The concept of citizenship in the biblical context extends beyond earthly political entities. Philippians 3:20 reinforces this idea by stating, “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” This heavenly citizenship redefines the believer’s identity, providing a sense of belonging that transcends worldly affiliations and loyalties.

The message of being no longer foreigners and strangers but fellow citizens is as relevant today as it was in the first century. The church, as a global community, continues to grapple with issues of inclusion, diversity, and unity. Paul’s teachings offer timeless principles that can guide contemporary believers in building inclusive and welcoming communities.

The modern church is composed of individuals from various cultural, ethnic, and social backgrounds. Embracing this diversity means recognizing and valuing the unique contributions of each member. It involves creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and included, reflecting the inclusive nature of the gospel.

In a world marked by division and conflict, the church is called to be a beacon of reconciliation. This involves actively working to heal divisions within the community and promoting peace and understanding. It requires a commitment to building relationships based on mutual respect and love, following the example of Christ.

Believers are called to live out their heavenly citizenship in their daily lives. This means prioritizing kingdom values and principles over worldly pursuits. It involves being ambassadors of Christ, reflecting His love and grace in all interactions. It also means maintaining a sense of hope and anticipation for the future restoration of all things.

Conclusion
The biblical understanding of “No Longer Foreigners and Strangers, But Fellow Citizens” underscores the transformative power of the gospel in creating a new, inclusive community. It challenges believers to transcend cultural and social barriers, embracing their shared identity in Christ. As fellow citizens in God’s kingdom, believers are called to live out this reality, promoting unity, reconciliation, and the values of their heavenly citizenship. This message continues to inspire and guide the church in its mission to reflect God’s inclusive and redemptive love.

— The Rev. Jesús Reyes