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,
Ephesians 2:11-15
Please note that this passage does not say that we have become a new creation, but that two different groups of people have been made into one new creation in Christ! And these two groups of different people can even be said to be feuding, looking down on each other, and cannot accept each other!
In fact, when people grow up and have their own opinions, political parties, preferences, and habits, it becomes more and more difficult for people to live or unite with other people! You’d better keep a distance from others.
But why should we be united? Because we are in Christ Jesus! It was his blood that bought us back! He loves me and gave himself up for me! He also loved my adversary and gave himself up for him/her! The beauty of the church is not that everyone has the same tune, the same opinions, and preferences, the same way of worship, and the same level of spirituality. We have too many differences and oppositions, but the Lord Jesus wants us to be in harmony and love one another! He himself became our peace! Therefore, we are willing to let go of ourselves, learn about Christ, and take the initiative to accept brothers and sisters who are different from us. Cover all differences and conflicts with the love of Christ!
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for loving me and giving yourself to me! Help me to understand that you also love those who are different or opposed to me. Teach me to understand your love, let me love whom you love! Build up God’s family that is in unity and love, to satisfy your heart!
Raisins & Apples Bible Devotional & more 