Ephesians 2:15
Verse
Context
One in Christ
14For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility15by abolishing in His flesh the law of commandments and decrees. He did this to create in Himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace16and reconciling both of them to God in one body through the cross, by which He extinguished their hostility.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Having abolished in his flesh - By his incarnation and death he not only made an atonement for sin, but he appointed the doctrine of reconciliation to God, and of love to each other, to be preached in all nations; and thus glory was brought to God in the highest, and on earth, peace and good will were diffused among men. The enmity of which the apostle speaks was reciprocal among the Jews and Gentiles. The former detested the Gentiles, and could hardly allow them the denomination of men; the latter had the Jews in the most sovereign contempt, because of the peculiarity of their religious rites and ceremonies, which were different from those of all the other nations of the earth. The law of commandments - Contained in, or rather concerning, ordinances; which law was made merely for the purpose of keeping the Jews a distinct people, and pointing out the Son of God till he should come. When, therefore, the end of its institution was answered, it was no longer necessary; and Christ by his death abolished it. To make in himself - To make one Church out of both people, which should be considered the body of which Jesus Christ is the head. Thus he makes one new man - one new Church; and thus he makes and establishes peace. I think the apostle still alludes to the peace-offering, שלום shalom, among the Jews. They have a saying, Sephra, fol. 121: Whosoever offers a peace-offering sacrifice, brings peace to the world. Such a peace-offering was the death of Christ, and by it peace is restored to the earth.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Rather, make "enmity" an apposition to "the middle wall of partition"; "Hath broken down the middle wall of partition (not merely as English Version, 'between us,' but also between all men and God), to wit, the enmity (Rom 8:7) by His flesh" (compare Eph 2:16; Rom 8:3). the law of commandments contained in--Greek, "the law of the commandments (consisting) in ordinances." This law was "the partition" or "fence," which embodied the expression of the "enmity" (the "wrath" of God against our sin, and our enmity to Him, Eph 2:3) (Rom 4:15; Rom 5:20; Rom 7:10-11; Rom 8:7). Christ has in, or by, His crucified flesh, abolished it, so far as its condemning and enmity-creating power is concerned (Col 2:14), substituting for it the law of love, which is the everlasting spirit of the law, and which flows from the realization in the soul of His love in His death for us. Translate what follows, "that He might make the two (Jews and Gentiles) into one new man." Not that He might merely reconcile the two to each other, but incorporate the two, reconciled in Him to God, into one new man; the old man to which both belonged, the enemy of God, having been slain in His flesh on the cross. Observe, too, ONE new man; we are all in God's sight but one in Christ, as we are but one in Adam [ALFORD]. making peace--primarily between all and God, secondarily between Jews and Gentiles; He being "our peace." This "peace-making" precedes its publication (Eph 2:17).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Having abolished in his flesh the enmity,.... The ceremonial law, as appears by what follows, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; which consisted of many precepts, and carnal ordinances; and is so called because it was an indication of God's hatred of sin, by requiring sacrifice for it; and because it was an occasion of stirring up the enmity of the natural man, it being a burden and a weariness to the flesh, by reason of its many and troublesome rites; and because it was the cause of enmity between Jew and Gentile: the Jews say (g), that Sinai, the mount on which the law was given, signifies "hatred"; and that it is so called because from it descended "hatred" or "enmity" to the nations of the world: now this Christ abolished, "in his flesh", or by it; not by his incarnation, but by the sacrifice of his flesh, or human nature, and that as in union with his divine nature; but not until he had fulfilled it in himself, which was one end of his coming into the world; and then he abolished it, so as that it ought not to be, and so as that it is not, and of no use and service; and that because it was faulty and deficient, weak and unprofitable, as well as intolerable; and because there was a change in the priesthood; and because it was contrary to a spirit of liberty, the great blessing of the Gospel; and that there might be a reconciliation and a coalition between Jew and Gentile, as follows: for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; which explains what is meant before by making both one; and expresses the strictness of the union between Jew and Gentile, they became as one man; and points at the manner in which they became so strictly united; and that is by being made new men, or new creatures, by having a work of grace upon their souls, and so baptized into one body, and made to drink of one and the same Spirit; the foundation of which union is in himself; for Jew and Gentile, male and female, bond and free, are all one in Christ Jesus; he is the cornerstone in which they all meet, and the head to which the whole body is joined. (g) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 89. 1. Shemot Rabba, sect. 2. fol. 92. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:15 ending the system of law: See Rom 10:4; Col 2:14; cp. Rom 6:14; 7:4-6. • The church is one new people, a community where love and acceptance are prized and ethnic distinctions are no longer a source of division (see Rom 15:7-12; Gal 3:28; cp. John 10:16).
Ephesians 2:15
One in Christ
14For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility15by abolishing in His flesh the law of commandments and decrees. He did this to create in Himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace16and reconciling both of them to God in one body through the cross, by which He extinguished their hostility.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Changed Into Christ's Image #6
By Robert B. Thompson2.0K1:18:00PSA 68:15MAT 6:33EPH 2:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the symbolic meaning of the number four in the Bible, which represents communication. He explains that God dwells between the cherubim, which are four-wheeled chariots. The preacher then addresses the question of how to live according to the Spirit, emphasizing the importance of starting the day off correctly and seeking guidance from the Lord in all aspects of life. He also mentions that there are specific ways to deal with sin and encourages the congregation to ask the Lord for guidance in even the smallest tasks. The sermon concludes with a prayer for blessings, protection, and the presence of Jesus in the lives of the listeners.
Christ in Genesis: Noah's Ark
By Stephen Kaung1.7K1:12:16GenesisGEN 6:9EPH 2:15HEB 11:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the significance of Noah in the book of Genesis. He explains that Noah represents the Ark, which symbolizes God's plan to preserve mankind. The preacher emphasizes that Noah was a just and righteous man who walked with God. The sermon also highlights the importance of abiding in Christ and working together with God in our daily lives.
The Mystery of Incarnation (1 of 9)
By Art Katz1.7K1:13:39IncarnationPSA 102:131CO 15:231CO 15:351CO 15:37EPH 2:15PHP 2:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a relationship with God and being obedient to Him. They highlight the tension and delicacy of this relationship, stating that even after years of obedience, one should still approach God with fear and trembling. The speaker also discusses the concept of sonship, using Jesus and Paul as examples of how to follow God's will. They conclude by mentioning a specific instance where the speaker was called to speak on the subject of Israel and the church in the last days, indicating that the silence was over and they were on holy ground.
The Elijah of the Last Days
By Zac Poonen1.4K52:17MAL 4:5MAT 11:11LUK 1:15JHN 17:20EPH 2:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared for Christ's return, drawing parallels between the need for readiness during Christ's first coming and the current state of many Christians. It highlights the ministry of John the Baptist as a model for preparing hearts for the Lord, focusing on being great in the sight of the Lord rather than men. The sermon challenges believers to prioritize holiness, unity, and readiness for Christ's return over worldly desires and superficial aspects of faith.
The Cross and the Church, Part 2
By Stephen Kaung7911:43:08MAT 17:1MAT 17:24EPH 1:22EPH 2:15EPH 2:19EPH 4:1In this sermon on Ephesians chapter 4, the speaker encourages the audience to live a life worthy of their calling. He emphasizes the importance of humility, patience, and love in maintaining unity among believers. The speaker highlights the oneness of the body of Christ, emphasizing that there is one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all. He also discusses how Jesus' sacrifice on the cross provides the raw material for building the church. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the characters of Peter and Andrew, highlighting the importance of forgiveness and attentiveness in our relationships with others.
Man in Christ
By F.B. Meyer0Identity in ChristTransformationROM 6:41CO 15:452CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:15EPH 3:16EPH 4:13EPH 4:22EPH 4:24COL 3:10F.B. Meyer emphasizes that Christ is the ideal man, embodying purity and beauty untouched by sin, and that through Him, humanity can be restored to its original glory. He explains that while Adam fell and brought sin into the world, Jesus, as the second man, offers a new life and identity to all who believe, creating a new humanity that transcends divisions. Meyer highlights the importance of the inner man, where the Holy Spirit dwells, and the need for believers to recognize and utilize their spiritual gifts for the growth of the Church. He contrasts the old man, characterized by sinful habits, with the new man, which reflects the character of Christ and is to be assumed by faith. Ultimately, Meyer calls for believers to put on the new man, allowing Christ's likeness to shine through them.
Epistle 371
By George Fox0Humility and RighteousnessUnity in ChristGEN 3:15GEN 22:18MAT 11:29ROM 2:24GAL 3:8EPH 2:15EPH 4:30COL 2:31TH 1:4TIT 2:11George Fox emphasizes the significance of the holy seed, Christ, which brings unity and blessings to all nations while destroying the evil seed that causes enmity. He encourages believers to let Christ rule in their hearts, leading to wisdom, knowledge, and righteous living that glorifies God. Fox urges the faithful to remain humble, gentle, and united in the Spirit, warning against pride and strife that disrupts the bond of peace. He calls for the faithful to maintain their worship and business meetings in truth and to reach out to others with the gospel of peace. Ultimately, he desires that all may live in a way that reflects God's glory and the knowledge of the Lord throughout the earth.
Epistle 115
By George Fox0Ministry of ReconciliationUnity in ChristPSA 37:9EZK 37:26MAT 20:28MRK 3:24LUK 1:332CO 5:19GAL 3:28EPH 2:151JN 1:1George Fox emphasizes the significance of the eternal Word, which embodies life, peace, and reconciliation, urging believers to abide in this unity that transcends division. He warns against the divisive nature of evil language and encourages waiting in the light where true oneness with God exists. Fox calls upon the faithful to sound the trumpet of Christ's kingdom, reminding them that the true ministry is one of service and unity, standing against the antichrists of the world.
The Church Which Is His Body
By William MacDonald0The Nature of the ChurchThe Mission of the ChurchJHN 10:16ACT 2:4ACT 7:38ACT 20:281CO 3:91CO 10:32EPH 1:22EPH 2:15EPH 2:22EPH 5:25William MacDonald emphasizes that the Church is not merely an organization but a living organism, a body of believers united in Christ through the Holy Spirit. He defines the Church using various metaphors such as a flock, God's husbandry, and the body of Christ, illustrating its vital role in worship and community. MacDonald also discusses the mission of the Church, highlighting the importance of preaching the gospel and grounding believers in the truths of the Church. He argues that the Church began on the day of Pentecost, marking a significant moment in God's plan for humanity. Ultimately, he calls for Christians to devote themselves to the Church's expansion and spiritual welfare.
The Beginning of a New Humanity
By T. Austin-Sparks0New HumanitySpiritual TransformationJHN 3:3ROM 8:291CO 15:45GAL 6:15EPH 2:15EPH 4:13COL 3:102PE 3:72PE 3:10REV 21:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the entrance of Jesus Christ into creation marks the beginning of a new humanity, where Christ serves as the Horizon of all things, both in the present and in the future. He discusses the significance of human history, the meaning of Christ and Christianity, the true Church of God, and the essence of spiritual experience, all centered around the person of Christ. Sparks highlights that humanity's misuse of free will has led to frustration and despair, yet through Christ, believers can experience peace, purpose, and hope. Ultimately, he asserts that God is actively forming a new humanity, characterized by spiritual transformation and dependence on Him.
The Man Whom He Hath Ordained
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Person of ChristUnity in ChristROM 8:29GAL 4:19EPH 2:15T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that God's ultimate answer to the complexities of life, sin, and human destiny is found in 'the Man Whom He hath ordained,' referring to Jesus Christ. He explains that the universe's meaning, the solution to the Fall, and the essence of salvation are all encapsulated in this Man. Sparks argues that God does not offer a religion or a set of doctrines but presents a personal relationship with Christ, who embodies wisdom and power. The sermon highlights that true unity and resolution of human problems—be it racial, social, or existential—are found in Christ, who is the key to understanding and fulfilling God's purpose. Ultimately, the message calls for believers to recognize their vital union with Christ as the foundation for spiritual success and transformation.
Part 14: The Abrahamic Covenant and Premillennialism
By John F. Walvoord0ROM 9:4GAL 6:15EPH 2:12EPH 2:15John F. Walvoord delves into the debate on whether Israel will continue as a nation, focusing on the meanings of the term 'Seed of Abraham' and 'Israel' in Scripture. He addresses the arguments presented by amillenarians regarding the fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant only through the spiritual seed of Abraham, emphasizing the distinction between the physical and spiritual seed. Walvoord highlights the significance of Israel's racial continuity, pointing out the preservation of Jewish identity as a strong argument against denying Israel's future. He explores the distinctions between Israel, Gentiles, and the church, emphasizing the continuation of Israel and Gentiles as separate entities with specific promises and blessings.
The Law Done Away
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0ROM 4:13ROM 6:14GAL 3:19GAL 3:22EPH 2:15Lewis Sperry Chafer preaches about the fundamental differences between the reign of law and the reign of grace, emphasizing that they are opposed to each other and cannot coexist. He explains that the Scriptures of the New Testament clearly teach that the law, in all its forms, is done away with in the present age under the economy of grace. Chafer delves into the threefold larger conception of the law, including the teachings of Moses, the law covenant of works, and the principle of dependence on the flesh, all of which are now set aside in the era of grace. He highlights the importance of understanding that the law has ceased, even in its widest meaning, and that believers are now under the reign of grace, not the law.
John 10:14-19
By St. John Chrysostom0EZK 34:2LUK 10:22JHN 10:11JHN 10:16ROM 5:10ROM 8:32EPH 2:15PHP 2:21TIT 3:3John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of being a good shepherd, drawing parallels between the shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep and Christ who sacrificed Himself for humanity. He emphasizes the need for shepherds to care for and protect their flock, contrasting the selfless dedication of a shepherd with the selfishness of hirelings. Chrysostom highlights Christ's unwavering commitment to His sheep, even in the face of opposition and danger, showcasing His ultimate act of love by laying down His life for all. He delves into the significance of Christ's resurrection, proving His divine power and authority over life and death.
Inclusive and Exclusive
By H.J. Vine0EPH 2:15H.J. Vine preaches on the importance of understanding the truth of the one body of Christ, emphasizing inclusiveness and the necessity of every member. Exclusiveness that excludes certain members based on the one body principle is deemed erroneous, while excluding wickedness aligns with God's truth. The oneness of the body is crucial to prevent division, as seen in the joint participation in God's promises and the unity in glorifying God through Christ Jesus.
(The New Covenant Servant) 7. Building the Church
By Zac Poonen0MAT 7:29MAT 18:18JHN 17:10JHN 17:171CO 14:24EPH 2:15PHP 3:71TI 3:152PE 1:19Zac Poonen preaches on the ultimate purpose of God in the new covenant, emphasizing the importance of unity in the Body of Christ. Under the new covenant, God desires a unified Body, not just individual godly persons. The presence of God is crucial in a new-covenant church, where Divine life should be evident, convicting hearts and manifesting God's glory. The church should be a place where the truth sets people free, guided by the Spirit of truth. Spiritual authority is essential for building the Body of Christ, requiring sacrificial living and a willingness to give all to God.
The Kingdom of Heaven
By George Warnock0GEN 1:12PSA 110:1MAT 13:31MAT 24:14MRK 4:28JHN 12:24EPH 2:15HEB 10:7HEB 12:22REV 1:6George Warnock preaches about the rebuilding of the Tabernacle of David, signifying the day of the Royal Priesthood where Christ, as King and Priest, unites with believers to make them 'kings and priests unto God.' Jesus taught in parables to reveal the mysteries of the Kingdom, emphasizing its gradual growth and development rather than a sudden appearance. The Kingdom of God expands beyond one nation to encompass all the earth through the preaching of the gospel, transforming believers into a heavenly people known as 'The City of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem.' The fruition of the Kingdom is likened to the 'full corn in the ear,' symbolizing Jesus enthroned and embodied in the lives of His faithful followers.
Epistle 147
By George Fox0MAT 18:201CO 15:45EPH 2:15EPH 4:16COL 2:191TH 3:13HEB 10:10REV 1:8REV 21:23George Fox preaches about living in the wisdom of the Lord to remain pure, lively, and gentle, emphasizing the importance of being established in God's virtue, power, and love to uphold justice and truth. He highlights Christ Jesus as the prophet, priest, and king who reveals and rules over His people, bringing life and peace while destroying enmity and strife. Fox connects various biblical figures and symbols to Christ, urging believers to walk in the light of the Lamb, overcome through His blood, and inherit the power of God by living in love, peace, and unity.
The Puritan Illusion - Part Two
By Charles Alexander0ISA 40:9ISA 52:7ISA 54:13ISA 55:1ISA 59:20ISA 60:1ROM 11:26EPH 2:15Paul the Apostle preaches about the rejection of the Jewish people due to their sins and the coming of the Redeemer to Zion, symbolizing the establishment of the New Covenant Israel, composed of both Jew and gentile believers. The prophecy in Isaiah emphasizes the spiritual sense of Zion, Jerusalem, and Israel, representing the Church of Christ, where all distinctions of nationhood are erased. The sermon highlights the need for repentance, faith, and the acceptance of the gospel for salvation, extending to all nations and peoples, as foretold in the Old Testament prophecies.
The "Mystery" Revealed
By T. Austin-Sparks0The New CreationUnity in ChristROM 5:12EPH 2:15T. Austin-Sparks reveals the profound mystery of the 'One New Man' as articulated in Ephesians, emphasizing its significance in the context of biblical history and the nature of Christ. He explains how this concept encapsulates the essence of true Christianity, highlighting the transition from the old creation to the new creation in Christ, where distinctions are erased and unity is found in Him. Sparks draws connections between various scriptures, illustrating how the mystery of manhood according to Christ has been a governing theme throughout the Bible, culminating in the Church as the Body of Christ. He emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit in forming this new man, which involves evangelism, spiritual growth, and the ultimate expression of Christ in the Church. The sermon culminates in the understanding that this revelation was hidden until now, showcasing God's eternal purpose for humanity.
The Bringing in of a Man
By T. Austin-Sparks0PSA 8:6JHN 1:3ROM 8:191CO 15:45EPH 2:15PHP 2:13COL 1:16HEB 13:211JN 3:8REV 21:4REV 22:3T. Austin-Sparks preaches about the lost impact of Christ, the Gospel, and Christianity due to the influence of tradition, theology, and mystical cults. He emphasizes the need to rediscover the real meaning of Christ to experience a new impact personally and to impact the world. The sermon delves into the significance of Christ as the last Adam, a life-giving spirit, and His role in the Divine scheme of things as the answer to the universe, the terminal point between purpose and fulfillment, the climax of Divine energies, the instrument for answering the iniquity of the universe, the channel of life to a world race, and the spiritual head in terms of life through faith and righteousness.
Be Filled and Be Filled Now!
By Roy Hession0ROM 3:31CO 2:61CO 6:131CO 13:82CO 3:7GAL 3:17GAL 5:4EPH 2:152TH 2:82TI 1:10HEB 2:14The preacher delves into the concept of 'katargeo,' which means to render something powerless or ineffective. This term is often used in the New Testament to describe the nullification or abolition of various things, such as the Law, sin, and death, through the work of Christ. The perfect tense of 'katargeo' signifies a permanent effect, emphasizing the lasting impact of Christ's work. By exploring the multiple instances of 'katargeo' in the Bible, believers can grasp the profound truths associated with the work of Christ and the freedom it brings.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Having abolished in his flesh - By his incarnation and death he not only made an atonement for sin, but he appointed the doctrine of reconciliation to God, and of love to each other, to be preached in all nations; and thus glory was brought to God in the highest, and on earth, peace and good will were diffused among men. The enmity of which the apostle speaks was reciprocal among the Jews and Gentiles. The former detested the Gentiles, and could hardly allow them the denomination of men; the latter had the Jews in the most sovereign contempt, because of the peculiarity of their religious rites and ceremonies, which were different from those of all the other nations of the earth. The law of commandments - Contained in, or rather concerning, ordinances; which law was made merely for the purpose of keeping the Jews a distinct people, and pointing out the Son of God till he should come. When, therefore, the end of its institution was answered, it was no longer necessary; and Christ by his death abolished it. To make in himself - To make one Church out of both people, which should be considered the body of which Jesus Christ is the head. Thus he makes one new man - one new Church; and thus he makes and establishes peace. I think the apostle still alludes to the peace-offering, שלום shalom, among the Jews. They have a saying, Sephra, fol. 121: Whosoever offers a peace-offering sacrifice, brings peace to the world. Such a peace-offering was the death of Christ, and by it peace is restored to the earth.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Rather, make "enmity" an apposition to "the middle wall of partition"; "Hath broken down the middle wall of partition (not merely as English Version, 'between us,' but also between all men and God), to wit, the enmity (Rom 8:7) by His flesh" (compare Eph 2:16; Rom 8:3). the law of commandments contained in--Greek, "the law of the commandments (consisting) in ordinances." This law was "the partition" or "fence," which embodied the expression of the "enmity" (the "wrath" of God against our sin, and our enmity to Him, Eph 2:3) (Rom 4:15; Rom 5:20; Rom 7:10-11; Rom 8:7). Christ has in, or by, His crucified flesh, abolished it, so far as its condemning and enmity-creating power is concerned (Col 2:14), substituting for it the law of love, which is the everlasting spirit of the law, and which flows from the realization in the soul of His love in His death for us. Translate what follows, "that He might make the two (Jews and Gentiles) into one new man." Not that He might merely reconcile the two to each other, but incorporate the two, reconciled in Him to God, into one new man; the old man to which both belonged, the enemy of God, having been slain in His flesh on the cross. Observe, too, ONE new man; we are all in God's sight but one in Christ, as we are but one in Adam [ALFORD]. making peace--primarily between all and God, secondarily between Jews and Gentiles; He being "our peace." This "peace-making" precedes its publication (Eph 2:17).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Having abolished in his flesh the enmity,.... The ceremonial law, as appears by what follows, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; which consisted of many precepts, and carnal ordinances; and is so called because it was an indication of God's hatred of sin, by requiring sacrifice for it; and because it was an occasion of stirring up the enmity of the natural man, it being a burden and a weariness to the flesh, by reason of its many and troublesome rites; and because it was the cause of enmity between Jew and Gentile: the Jews say (g), that Sinai, the mount on which the law was given, signifies "hatred"; and that it is so called because from it descended "hatred" or "enmity" to the nations of the world: now this Christ abolished, "in his flesh", or by it; not by his incarnation, but by the sacrifice of his flesh, or human nature, and that as in union with his divine nature; but not until he had fulfilled it in himself, which was one end of his coming into the world; and then he abolished it, so as that it ought not to be, and so as that it is not, and of no use and service; and that because it was faulty and deficient, weak and unprofitable, as well as intolerable; and because there was a change in the priesthood; and because it was contrary to a spirit of liberty, the great blessing of the Gospel; and that there might be a reconciliation and a coalition between Jew and Gentile, as follows: for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; which explains what is meant before by making both one; and expresses the strictness of the union between Jew and Gentile, they became as one man; and points at the manner in which they became so strictly united; and that is by being made new men, or new creatures, by having a work of grace upon their souls, and so baptized into one body, and made to drink of one and the same Spirit; the foundation of which union is in himself; for Jew and Gentile, male and female, bond and free, are all one in Christ Jesus; he is the cornerstone in which they all meet, and the head to which the whole body is joined. (g) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 89. 1. Shemot Rabba, sect. 2. fol. 92. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:15 ending the system of law: See Rom 10:4; Col 2:14; cp. Rom 6:14; 7:4-6. • The church is one new people, a community where love and acceptance are prized and ethnic distinctions are no longer a source of division (see Rom 15:7-12; Gal 3:28; cp. John 10:16).