Theme: You once were lost and under God's wrath. Now in Christ you are put into union with Christ and have peace with God and every other believer. You are being placed into God's household as living stones on the sure foundation of Christ, the apostles, and prophets.
In vv. 11-12, we see we need to remember our former state. In application, we come into this world uncircumcised as an object lesson. We are actually uncircumcised in heart. We are surrounded by pagans and unbelieving Jews (who are all uncircumcised in heart) especially in this post-modern world in which we live, and we must represent Christ faithfully to them. In vv. 13-18, we see the importance of understanding the benefits of our present condition.
In application, we are to understand that our vertical reconciliation with God through Christ has led to horizontal reconciliation with our fellow believers. Finally, in vv. 19-22, we see the need to realize what God is building for His glory, and in application, we should recognize the corporate nature of what God is building. Remember how you were separated from God, let the knowledge that you are now in union with Christ comfort you, knowing that God is chiseling us to be His living stones! |
