What does Ephesians 2:11 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 2:11 addresses the division that existed between Jews and Gentiles.

In this verse, Paul reminds the Ephesian Gentiles of their former state before becoming believers in Christ.

The term "Gentiles in the flesh" refers to their non-Jewish ethnicity and their outsider status.

Being called the "Uncircumcision" by the "Circumcision," or Jews, reflects the deep-rooted religious and cultural separation based on the physical act of circumcision, which was a sign of the Jewish covenant with God.

The "flesh made by hands" alludes to the physical and external nature of the circumcision.

Paul emphasizes not just the physical distinction but suggests a deeper spiritual implication, reminding the Ephesian believers of their inclusion into God's family through Christ, not through physical rites.

Historical Context

This verse was written by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Ephesian church around A.D. 62.

The early church comprised both Jewish and Gentile believers, often creating a tension due to their varying cultural and religious backgrounds.

For Jews, circumcision was a significant religious marker given by God to Abraham as a sign of the covenant.

Gentiles, not bound by Jewish law or tradition, were often viewed as outsiders or even as spiritually unclean.

Paul's letter sought to address these divisions and to provide instruction on unity in the body of Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse reflects the doctrine of unity in Christ.

Paul's message is that Gentiles, who were once alienated from the covenants of Israel, are now brought near by the sacrifice of Christ.

This abolishing of the separation between Jews and Gentiles is an essential aspect of Christian theology, demonstrating God's plan to create one new humanity in Christ, overcoming the barriers of race and tradition.

Practical Applications

A practical application of Ephesians 2:11 is the principle of inclusiveness in the body of believers.

It serves as a reminder that no cultural, racial, or religious background should separate individuals within the church.

Believers are encouraged to embrace diversity and to express unity, love, and acceptance in keeping with their identity in Christ.

Cross-References

• Galatians 3:28 - "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."
• Romans 2:28-29 - "For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God."
• Colossians 3:11 - "Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all."

Language Study

The phrase "called Uncircumcision" (ἀπεριτμήτοις) contrasts with "Circumcision" (περιτομὴ) which is literally "made by hands" (χειροποιήτου).

The Greek word "χειροποιήτου," which means "made by hands," implies human ritual and custom in contrast to God's spiritual work. "περιτομὴ" (peritomē) signifies the physical act of circumcision, which is a tangible sign of Jewish identity and covenant with God, while "ἀπεριτμήτοις" (aperitmētois) signifies those outside of this identity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the religious context of the ancient world, physical rites and symbols were important markers of identity and religious adherence. In comparison to other ancient practices and myths, the rite of circumcision was unique to the Hebrew people and marked them as God's chosen people.

In contrast, other cultures had their own initiation rites that served similar purposes of defining identity and belonging.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understandings of cultural practices like circumcision relate to anthropology and sociology.

From this perspective, distinctions based on physical rites are seen as elements of social cohesion and markers of cultural identity.

Scientific studies may examine the health benefits or critiques of physical circumcision, but the biblical context is purely cultural and religious rather than scientific.

Commentaries

Commentaries largely agree that Ephesians 2:11 aims at reminding Gentile believers of their former alienation and their full inclusion into God's covenant community through Christ.

Matthew Henry's commentary notes that Paul urges Gentiles to remember their previous state, to appreciate their deliverance.

The MacArthur Study Bible emphasizes that physical circumcision itself is of no saving value and that salvation is through Christ alone, a perspective shared by many evangelical commentaries.

Catholic commentaries, such as the Navarre Bible Commentary, highlight the unity of Christians as one people in Christ, breaking down the barriers that previously separated Jews and Gentiles.