thinking bible.

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what was the specific 'middle wall' paul was referring to in his original context?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Ephesians 2:14

For he is our peace, who made both one, and broke down the middle wall of partition,

Paul is writing to believers in Ephesus, a diverse city with Jewish and Gentile populations, probably in the mid-1st century CE. In this part of his letter, he's reflecting on how Gentiles (non-Jews) have been brought into God's family, which was previously understood primarily in terms of Israel.

What does it mean for us, personally or communally, to experience 'peace' that breaks down long-standing barriers?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Acts 10:28

    Peter's experience with Cornelius highlights the Jewish law's separation from Gentiles, which was being challenged.

  • Galatians 3:28

    Paul speaks of unity in Christ, transcending social and ethnic divisions.

  • Isaiah 2:2-4

    Prophetic vision of all nations streaming to the Lord's house, foreshadowing universal inclusion.

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