Ephesians 2:19
Verse
Context
Christ Our Cornerstone
18For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.19Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household,20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye are no more strangers - In this chapter the Church of God is compared to a city, which, has a variety of privileges, rights, etc., founded on regular charters and grants. The Gentiles, having believed in Christ, are all incorporated with the believing Jews in this holy city. Formerly, when any of them came to Jerusalem, being ξενοι, strangers, they had no kind of rights whatever; nor could they, as mere heathens, settle among them. Again, if any of them, convinced of the errors of the Gentiles, acknowledged the God of Israel, but did not receive circumcision, he might dwell in the land, but he had no right to the blessings of the covenant; such might be called παροικοι, sojourners - persons who have no property in the land, and may only rent a house for the time being. Fellow citizens with the saints - Called to the enjoyment of equal privileges with the Jews themselves, who, by profession, were a holy people; who were bound to be holy, and therefore are often called saints, or holy persons, when both their hearts and conduct were far from being right in the sight of God. But the saints spoken of here are the converted or Christianized Jews. Of the household of God - The house of God is the temple; the temple was a type of the Christian Church; this is now become God's house; all genuine believers are considered as being οικειοι, domestics, of this house, the children and servants of God Almighty, having all equal rights, privileges, and advantages; as all, through one Spirit, by the sacred head of the family, had equal access to God, and each might receive as much grace and as much glory as his soul could possibly contain.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now, therefore--rather, "So then" [ALFORD]. foreigners--rather, "sojourners"; opposed to "members of the household," as "strangers" is to "fellow citizens." Phi 3:19-20, "conversation," Greek, "citizenship." but--The oldest manuscripts add, "are." with the saints--"the commonwealth of (spiritual) Israel" (Eph 2:12). of God--THE FATHER; as JESUS CHRIST appears in Eph 2:20, and THE SPIRIT in Eph 2:22.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now therefore ye are no more strangers..... Alluding to the name "a stranger", by which the Jews called the Gentiles; meaning that they were not now strangers to God, to the grace of God, the love of God, and communion with him, nor to the throne of his grace; nor to Christ, to his person, his work and office, to his righteousness, to his voice, and to believing in him; nor to the Holy Spirit, as an enlightener, a comforter, the spirit of adoption, and as a seal and earnest of future glory; nor to their own hearts, the corruption and deceitfulness of them; nor to the devices of Satan; nor to the covenant of grace, its blessings and promises: and foreigners: in the commonwealth of Israel, in the church of God; but fellow citizens with the saints: the city they belong to is either the church below, which is the city of God, of his building, and where he dwells, of which Christ is the foundation, which is strongly fortified with the walls and bulwarks of salvation, is delightfully situated by the river of divine love, and is endowed with various privileges; or heaven above, which is a city of God's preparing and building also, and where he has his residence, and which is the habitation of angels and saints; of this city in either sense saints are citizens; such who are saints by separation, who are set apart by the Father's grace, and by imputation, or through Christ's being made sanctification to them, and by the regenerating grace of the blessed Spirit; and these, as they have a right to a name and a place in the church on earth, have also their citizenship in heaven; and which they have not by birth, nor by purchase, but by the free grace of God, which gives them both a right and a meetness; and believing Gentiles are upon equal foot of grace and privilege with believing Jews: and of the household of God: and which is sometimes called the household of faith, the church of God consisting of believers, the family in heaven and in earth named of Christ; in which family or household God is the Father, Christ is the firstborn, ministers are stewards; and here are saints of various growth and size, some fathers, some young men, some children: and to this family all believers belong, whether Gentiles or Jews; and which they come into, not by birth, nor by merit, but by adopting grace; and happy are they that belong to this city and house! they are freed from all servitude and bondage; they can never be arrested, or come into condemnation; they have liberty of access to God, and share in the fulness of grace in Christ; they are well taken care of; they are richly clothed, and have plenty of provisions; and will never be turned out, and are heirs of a never fading inheritance.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:19 Gentiles who believe are no longer strangers and foreigners (2:11-12, 17). Through Christ, they are fully accepted into God’s family. They become children of God, just like believing Jews (see Rom 8:14-17).
Ephesians 2:19
Christ Our Cornerstone
18For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.19Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household,20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Be Rich: Saints Alive
By Warren Wiersbe12K36:33ElectionEPH 1:1EPH 1:7EPH 1:18EPH 2:1EPH 2:8EPH 2:19EPH 3:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the characteristics of a saint. He explains that a saint is someone who has trusted in God's Son and experienced His grace. Additionally, a saint has received God's peace. The preacher emphasizes that when one believes in God's Son and receives His grace, they also receive His peace. The sermon also touches on the three basic wars that every human being faces: war with oneself, war with others, and war with God. The preacher uses biblical examples, such as Abraham, Zacchaeus, and the woman caught in adultery, to illustrate the concept of grace and how it brings peace.
Discernment - Part 1
By Vance Havner7.6K30:58DiscernmentEXO 30:33AMO 4:4AMO 5:4MAT 7:21EPH 2:19HEB 10:25JAS 1:21In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of discernment in the Church today. He emphasizes that spiritual truth may seem foolish to the natural man, but it can only be understood through the Spirit of God. The speaker also criticizes the practice of trying to manufacture spiritual experiences, stating that true worship and songs of praise come from a genuine place within the heart. He then introduces the topic of discerning the truth and highlights the confusion and uncertainty that many Christians face in discerning what is true and false in today's world.
(1 Corinthians) Building the Church
By Brian Brodersen3.0K47:52MAT 6:331CO 3:16EPH 2:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses the need to adapt to the modern culture and use multimedia presentations to teach the Bible effectively. He criticizes the idea of dressing up Jesus and using fancy clothes to appeal to the modern audience. The speaker argues against the infiltration of human wisdom into the church, emphasizing the importance of sticking to the basic principles given in the Scripture. He also criticizes the practice of building churches based on public opinion and adapting marketing principles, stating that these approaches have brought the church down.
The Persistent Purpose of God - Part 13
By T. Austin-Sparks2.0K44:34Purpose Of GodEZK 48:35EPH 2:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the church having a clear understanding of God's purpose and the cross. He explains that currently, the church has a progressive understanding of these things, but there will come a time when they will be fully realized. The speaker also highlights the significance of the city mentioned in the video, as it represents the vessel through which God is present in government. Additionally, the sermon emphasizes the example of Jesus and the necessity for the church to align with God's will and authority in order for God to fully commit himself to them.
The Body of Christ and Communion
By Francis Chan1.9K47:07Communion1CO 4:1EPH 2:19REV 4:8REV 5:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing ourselves as servants of Christ and stewards of God's mysteries. He mentions the early church's practice of kissing one another as a symbol of unity and emphasizes the need for believers to be united as one body. The preacher also highlights the worship that is happening in heaven, with angels and elders praising God continuously. He encourages believers to join in this worship and reminds them that their true identity is found in being a dwelling place for God by the Holy Spirit.
Recovery - Part 1 of 4
By T. Austin-Sparks1.9K54:05RecoveryMAT 6:33ACT 15:14EPH 2:19HEB 4:121PE 2:9REV 21:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the book of Nehemiah and its significance in the history of God's people. The book is divided into three main sections, each representing a different aspect of the people's journey. Firstly, it highlights the loss of influence due to the people's lack of spirituality and their adoption of worldly values. Secondly, it covers a period of captivity and discipline, with the aim of recovering what was lost. Thirdly, it focuses on the return of a remnant of God's people, who embody the intended testimony of His people in the world. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a people called out by God and the powerful influence they can have among the nations when in right relationship with Him. The sermon encourages listeners to have a mind to work and to devote themselves to God's purpose, as seen in the book of Nehemiah.
The Fatherhood of God
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K40:25GEN 12:3MAT 6:9MAT 6:33JHN 1:12ROM 8:14EPH 2:191JN 3:1In this sermon, preached by Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the focus is on the Fatherhood of God. Spurgeon emphasizes the love and mercy of God towards humanity, urging those who do not love and fear God to seek forgiveness through the blood of Christ. He highlights the significance of being called children of God, stating that it is not just a name but a reflection of God's great heart towards us. Spurgeon also emphasizes the duty of love that comes with this sonship, urging listeners to love their Heavenly Father. He concludes by highlighting the comfort and strength that comes from knowing God as our Father, even in times of trouble and adversity.
Things Unshakable - an Unshakable Church
By Zac Poonen1.7K51:57UnshakableMAT 16:18EPH 2:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding God's ultimate purpose for believers, which is the church. He explains that the church is not just a physical building or a denomination, but a community of born-again believers brought together by Christ. The speaker highlights that Jesus himself is the builder of the church, and that the powers of darkness will never be able to overpower it. He also warns against compromising on sin and losing faith in the Bible and Christ, as these are ways in which the devil can prevail over churches. The sermon encourages believers to have a longing for their church to be built by Jesus according to his principles, so that it becomes an unshakable church.
Fitly Framed Together
By Tim Conway1.6K1:09:37EPH 2:14EPH 2:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of racial unity and diversity within the church, highlighting the need to break down barriers and embrace different ethnicities as one body in Christ. The speaker shares personal experiences and challenges the congregation to value and fight for racial diversity as a testimony to the power of the Gospel and the unity found in Christ.
The Church: The History of the Church on Earth - Part 2
By Stephen Kaung1.5K31:04Church HistoryMAT 16:18JHN 17:21ACT 2:42ROM 12:51CO 12:27EPH 2:191PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of unity and love among believers. He emphasizes the recovery of truth within the Church and the popularity of the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. The preacher mentions a movement that started in Dublin and spread to Britain and Europe over a span of twenty years. He also talks about a split that occurred in 1848 due to differing views on discipline. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the church to walk according to God's will.
03 New Wine in New Wineskins Revelation on Gods Mysteries
By Zac Poonen1.3K59:27EZK 36:31MAT 11:271CO 3:10EPH 2:19EPH 3:9EPH 4:11EPH 5:321TI 3:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking revelation from God to understand the difference between the New Covenant and the Old Covenant. It highlights the need for personal transformation through deep inner hunger for God, victory over sin, and genuine repentance. The speaker challenges listeners to seek God's revelation on living a godly life and building the church according to His plan, focusing on the mysteries of godliness and the body of Christ.
Pilgrims Problems No. 12 the Great Tribulation
By Willie Mullan1.2K1:00:19The Great TribulationMAT 24:3EPH 2:19EPH 2:211TH 1:51TH 1:9REV 5:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the opening of the fourth seal in the book of Revelation. The fourth seal reveals a pale horse, symbolizing death, and hell follows with it. The preacher emphasizes the significance of this event, stating that it will bring distress and devastation to a fourth part of the earth. The sermon also mentions the scene in heaven where the Lamb takes the book and the prayers of the saints are represented by the elders.
Getting the Right Foundation
By Fred Whitmore95438:57FoundationEPH 2:1EPH 2:8EPH 2:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the desperate condition of a person without Christ. He describes them as being without strength and impotent in the face of temptation. The preacher shares a story of a woman who sincerely desired to change her life but lacked the ability to do so. He warns that living and dying without Christ leads to spending eternity under God's judgment. The sermon highlights the importance of valuing the word of God and the privilege of having access to it.
The Vision of Paul
By Stephen Kaung8261:12:43MAT 6:33ACT 9:5ACT 26:14ROM 8:37EPH 2:19HEB 9:22In this sermon, the preacher discusses the transformation of Saul, who later became known as Paul, and his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Saul was initially persecuting followers of Jesus, but a bright light appeared to him and he heard a voice asking why he was persecuting Jesus. The preacher explains the significance of the phrase "kick against the goads," which refers to resisting God's plan. The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing and following God's direction, even when faced with trials and challenges.
The House of God - Part 3 - Revealing the Reality
By Stephen Kaung7721:10:42JHN 1:14EPH 2:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses how to behave in the house of God based on 1 Timothy 3:16. He emphasizes the importance of holiness, as the house of God is holy and without holiness, no one can see God. The speaker also highlights the role of Jesus in preparing and building the house of God through his redemption and love. Jesus is presented as both a demonstration and a pattern of the house of God, showing what it is and preparing for its enlargement to include believers. The sermon encourages listeners to understand and represent the house of God on earth.
Viewing the Church Correctly
By Mack Tomlinson46155:27EPH 2:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of viewing the church correctly and making the most of church life. It highlights the need for believers to be fully engaged, initiate fellowship, and prioritize their commitment to the church. The speaker addresses the balance between family and church involvement, the continuity between Old Testament Israel and the church, and the significance of the church as the fulfillment of God's promises.
Gospel of John (2nd Yr Study 3 of 19, Chap 9 Cont, 10 Start)
By G.W. North10157:13Christian LifeBorn AgainHearing God's VoiceJHN 1:1JHN 3:3JHN 8:12JHN 10:27ROM 12:22CO 5:17EPH 2:19PHP 3:20HEB 12:11JN 1:7G.W. North emphasizes the transformative power of being born again, suggesting that true believers should transcend national identities and pride, recognizing their unity in Christ. He discusses the importance of hearing the voice of Jesus, illustrating that spiritual blindness and deafness can hinder one's relationship with God. North highlights the significance of understanding the Scriptures, particularly the Gospel of John, as it reveals the nature of Christ and the call to follow Him. He encourages believers to live in the light and to be aware of the voice they hear, as it reflects their spiritual state. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper relationship with God, urging listeners to embody the essence of Christ in their lives.
Childlike Wonder
By Phil Beach Jr.3923:08ChildlikenessChildlike FaithWonder Of GodPSA 139:14MAT 18:3MRK 10:14JHN 1:12ROM 8:161CO 13:11GAL 4:6EPH 2:19HEB 11:11PE 2:2Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of maintaining a childlike wonder and faith in our relationship with God, drawing inspiration from his daughter's innocent awe at the world around her. He reflects on how adults often lose this sense of wonder due to intellectualism and the burdens of life, which can lead to spiritual stagnation. Beach urges the congregation to seek a deeper, more vibrant connection with God, one that is filled with the splendor and majesty of His presence, akin to the imagination and joy found in childhood. He highlights that true understanding of God transcends mere theology and requires a heart that is open and vulnerable, much like that of a child. Ultimately, he calls for a restoration of this childlike faith to experience the fullness of God's love and power.
Spiritual Laws
By John Follette1PSA 18:28MAT 6:331CO 15:46EPH 2:19HEB 6:1John Follette emphasizes the importance of stabilizing our faith in God during times of trouble, encouraging us to apply Christian philosophy to our daily lives. He highlights the need to surrender all aspects of our lives to God, trusting in His provision and guidance. By surrendering to God, we allow Him to work in us, transforming us into the image of Christ through ministry and service. John reminds us that true life and character development come through surrender and testing, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and fulfillment.
The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory
By Chip Brogden1ISA 9:6MAT 6:13JHN 1:14JHN 3:30GAL 2:20EPH 2:10EPH 2:19PHP 2:10PHP 2:21Chip Brogden preaches on the three-fold benediction concluding the Lord's Prayer, emphasizing the Kingdom, Power, and Glory belonging to God. The Kingdom signifies the ongoing spiritual battle between light and darkness, with the assurance that God's Throne endures forever. The Power of Jesus is unmatched, demonstrated through His authority and miraculous works, transforming lives and empowering believers. The Glory of God is revealed in Jesus, the King of Kings, deserving all praise and adoration, leading to a future acknowledgment of His lordship by all. Believers are called to align themselves with God's ultimate purpose, allowing Christ to increase in their lives and decrease self, preparing for His Kingdom's full manifestation.
Epistle 172
By George Fox0Identity in ChristPerseverance in FaithEZK 16:49JHN 12:311CO 2:8EPH 2:192TI 3:5HEB 11:101PE 2:62PE 2:6REV 5:9George Fox emphasizes that believers are part of the royal seed, chosen and precious in God's sight, called to live righteously amidst a world filled with ungodliness. He highlights the persecution faced by the faithful, who are often at odds with the worldly powers that oppose the truth of Christ. Fox calls for a return to the true essence of faith, where love and righteousness reign, contrasting it with the hypocrisy of those who profess religion without embodying its spirit. He asserts that true believers are anointed by God, tasked with preaching righteousness and standing firm against the corruption of the world. Ultimately, he encourages the faithful to recognize their identity as kings and priests, empowered to reign with Christ against the forces of darkness.
Epistle 169
By George Fox0Power Of GodUnity in ChristISA 2:2ROM 1:161CO 10:31EPH 2:19EPH 4:3PHP 1:5COL 2:19HEB 6:191PE 2:5REV 17:14George Fox addresses the elect and faithful, emphasizing their identity as living stones and the royal seed of God, united in the covenant of life and peace. He encourages them to remain steadfast in the face of trials, assuring them that their faith will shine brighter through adversity. Fox calls for obedience to the power of God, urging believers to act in unity and not quench the Spirit during meetings. He warns against complacency and the dangers of worldly attachments, reminding them to dwell in God's love and maintain fellowship in the Spirit. Ultimately, he highlights the importance of living in the mystery of the gospel and the everlasting fellowship it brings.
1 Peter 2:5
By John Gill0Spiritual IdentityPriesthood of BelieversROM 12:1EPH 2:191PE 2:5John Gill emphasizes that believers are likened to 'lively stones' in 1 Peter 2:5, illustrating how they are transformed by God's grace from ordinary stones in the quarry to vital components of a spiritual house. This transformation signifies their role in the church, which serves as a dwelling place for God, distinct from the physical temples of the past. Gill highlights that all believers are part of a holy priesthood, called to offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. The sermon underscores the importance of living in accordance with the Spirit and engaging in spiritual worship and service. Ultimately, it calls believers to recognize their identity and purpose within the body of Christ.
The Outcome of Departure From a Heavenly Vision
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual OnenessHeavenly VisionJHN 17:21JHN 18:36JHN 20:21EPH 2:19T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining a heavenly vision for the Church, contrasting the heavenliness of Christ with the earthbound nature of Jerusalem and Judaism. He illustrates how Jerusalem's decline was linked to its earthly focus, leading to spiritual blindness and rejection of Christ, who embodied everything heavenly. The sermon warns against the dangers of jealousy, prejudice, and division within the Church, which reflect a departure from its true heavenly nature. Sparks calls for spiritual oneness among believers, asserting that true unity is essential for the Church to fulfill its divine purpose and resist worldly influences. He concludes by highlighting the necessity of the Holy Spirit's dominion in the Church to maintain its heavenly identity and mission.
The Silver and Gold He Had Dedicated
By F.B. Meyer0Unity in ChristService to God2SA 8:11EPH 2:19HEB 7:25F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of David's dedication of silver and gold for the temple, illustrating how our contributions, even if indirect, are recognized by God. He highlights that while David could not build the temple himself, his preparations enabled Solomon to complete the work, showing that our efforts can benefit future generations. Meyer draws parallels between David's spoils from victory and how we can use our own struggles and failures to aid others in their spiritual journeys. He also points out the prophetic nature of the temple, indicating that people from all nations will contribute to the spiritual temple of the Church, reflecting God's inclusive plan for salvation.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Ye are no more strangers - In this chapter the Church of God is compared to a city, which, has a variety of privileges, rights, etc., founded on regular charters and grants. The Gentiles, having believed in Christ, are all incorporated with the believing Jews in this holy city. Formerly, when any of them came to Jerusalem, being ξενοι, strangers, they had no kind of rights whatever; nor could they, as mere heathens, settle among them. Again, if any of them, convinced of the errors of the Gentiles, acknowledged the God of Israel, but did not receive circumcision, he might dwell in the land, but he had no right to the blessings of the covenant; such might be called παροικοι, sojourners - persons who have no property in the land, and may only rent a house for the time being. Fellow citizens with the saints - Called to the enjoyment of equal privileges with the Jews themselves, who, by profession, were a holy people; who were bound to be holy, and therefore are often called saints, or holy persons, when both their hearts and conduct were far from being right in the sight of God. But the saints spoken of here are the converted or Christianized Jews. Of the household of God - The house of God is the temple; the temple was a type of the Christian Church; this is now become God's house; all genuine believers are considered as being οικειοι, domestics, of this house, the children and servants of God Almighty, having all equal rights, privileges, and advantages; as all, through one Spirit, by the sacred head of the family, had equal access to God, and each might receive as much grace and as much glory as his soul could possibly contain.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now, therefore--rather, "So then" [ALFORD]. foreigners--rather, "sojourners"; opposed to "members of the household," as "strangers" is to "fellow citizens." Phi 3:19-20, "conversation," Greek, "citizenship." but--The oldest manuscripts add, "are." with the saints--"the commonwealth of (spiritual) Israel" (Eph 2:12). of God--THE FATHER; as JESUS CHRIST appears in Eph 2:20, and THE SPIRIT in Eph 2:22.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now therefore ye are no more strangers..... Alluding to the name "a stranger", by which the Jews called the Gentiles; meaning that they were not now strangers to God, to the grace of God, the love of God, and communion with him, nor to the throne of his grace; nor to Christ, to his person, his work and office, to his righteousness, to his voice, and to believing in him; nor to the Holy Spirit, as an enlightener, a comforter, the spirit of adoption, and as a seal and earnest of future glory; nor to their own hearts, the corruption and deceitfulness of them; nor to the devices of Satan; nor to the covenant of grace, its blessings and promises: and foreigners: in the commonwealth of Israel, in the church of God; but fellow citizens with the saints: the city they belong to is either the church below, which is the city of God, of his building, and where he dwells, of which Christ is the foundation, which is strongly fortified with the walls and bulwarks of salvation, is delightfully situated by the river of divine love, and is endowed with various privileges; or heaven above, which is a city of God's preparing and building also, and where he has his residence, and which is the habitation of angels and saints; of this city in either sense saints are citizens; such who are saints by separation, who are set apart by the Father's grace, and by imputation, or through Christ's being made sanctification to them, and by the regenerating grace of the blessed Spirit; and these, as they have a right to a name and a place in the church on earth, have also their citizenship in heaven; and which they have not by birth, nor by purchase, but by the free grace of God, which gives them both a right and a meetness; and believing Gentiles are upon equal foot of grace and privilege with believing Jews: and of the household of God: and which is sometimes called the household of faith, the church of God consisting of believers, the family in heaven and in earth named of Christ; in which family or household God is the Father, Christ is the firstborn, ministers are stewards; and here are saints of various growth and size, some fathers, some young men, some children: and to this family all believers belong, whether Gentiles or Jews; and which they come into, not by birth, nor by merit, but by adopting grace; and happy are they that belong to this city and house! they are freed from all servitude and bondage; they can never be arrested, or come into condemnation; they have liberty of access to God, and share in the fulness of grace in Christ; they are well taken care of; they are richly clothed, and have plenty of provisions; and will never be turned out, and are heirs of a never fading inheritance.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:19 Gentiles who believe are no longer strangers and foreigners (2:11-12, 17). Through Christ, they are fully accepted into God’s family. They become children of God, just like believing Jews (see Rom 8:14-17).