My Position in Christ as a Gentile
July 11, 2019
Commentary
Most of us at some times have been guilty of being prejudiced, looking down on others and thinking we were better than they were. Yet no prejudice has ever shown more hatred or lasted longer than that between Jews and Gen-tiles through the centuries.
Circumcision, which began with Abraham, became the key distinction between the two groups. With this in mind, Paul writes that “Gentiles in the flesh” were called “the uncircumcision” (v. 11). He points out that this rite, once a sign of spiritual promise, had become only a physical symbol of little value. Being a Jew, believing in God, keeping the law, and being circumcised did not make someone a true child of God. Their religion had become ritual without relationship—something outward and physical but not inward and spiritual (vv. 12–13).
The same is true today of people who claim to be Christians yet have never been born again by God’s Spirit. They practice “churchianity” but not Christianity. Israel was meant to be a light to the Gentiles so they might be saved. Sadly, Israel often became like the Gentiles. This stands as a warning to the church today: the more the church becomes like the world, the less effective it becomes in the world.
There are two kinds of prejudice that every person must face. First is the problem of inferiority. No one—regardless of race, color, or position—should feel unworthy to be part of God’s plan. Jesus accepts every individual who comes to Him. Second is the problem of pride. Jews and Gentiles alike were guilty of it. Pride led them to think their traditions or power made them superior. But Scripture reminds us, “God does not show favoritism” (ACTS 10:34), and neither should we (JAM 2:1).
Application
How is my life different from that of the Jews in Paul’s day? Is there any group I secretly look down on and think I’m better than? Christ tore down every wall of pride and prejudice. How can I show His love to people different from me? This week, I’ll remember that God accepts all who come to Him through Jesus.
Ephesians 2:11–13 (NET)
11 Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh—who are called “uncircumcision” by the so-called “circumcision” that is performed on the body by human hands— 12 that you were at that time without the Messiah, alienated from the citizenship of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who used to be far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
All ground is level beneath the cross
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