Authentic Relationships

Scripture
Ephesians 2:11-22
[11] Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands—[12] remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. [13] But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. [14] For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility [15] by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, [16] and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. [17] And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. [18] For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. [19] So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, [20] built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, [21] in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. [22] In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
The Big Picture
Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has torn down the walls that separate us, and has made a way for peace between those that view each other with suspicion, distrust and disdain. Jesus has brought all peoples into His body, the church.
Reflection
1. Dr. David Dark asks “Isn’t openness to the dangers of feeling offended a prerequisite to an actual relationship?” How is this true in your life?
2. What are some of the ‘walls’ that separate and divide people today? How does the Gospel overcome these divisions?
3. What are the ‘risks’ of authentic relationships? How does Jesus give us strength to overcome them?
4. How do you live out the call to ‘speak the truth in love’ (Ephesians 4:15)?
Songs
Don’t Ever Stop
Shout Hosanna
We Believe

Resources