Phil Rowlands

Hello, my friends!

Today, we’re diving into one of the most profound and transformative themes found in the book of Ephesians: the mystery of the Church. Ephesians is a beautiful letter from Paul that reveals the glory and purpose of the Church. It’s a powerful reminder of how God has united us in Christ and how this unity transcends all divisions and hostilities that have plagued humanity since the fall.

In Ephesians 1:9-10, Paul writes, “Having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself, that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth—in Him.” This passage introduces us to the grand plan of God, a plan that was hidden for ages but has now been revealed. It speaks of God's intention to reunite all things under the headship of Christ, restoring harmony and peace to a fragmented world.

Friends, we live in a world that is deeply divided. Since the fall, humanity has been marked by division and conflict. The enmity between Jews and Gentiles in Paul’s time was a stark example of this. Jews and Gentiles despised each other, to the point where social and religious customs were designed to keep them apart. Yet, Paul reveals that through Christ, these barriers are broken down. Ephesians 2:14-16 tells us, “For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in His flesh the enmity...so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace.”

This is the essence of the mystery of the Church – that in Christ, there is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female. We are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28). This unity is not just a future hope but a present reality. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has reconciled us to God and to one another. He has created a new humanity, a new creation where the old distinctions no longer matter.

Consider the significance of this. In a world where divisions are often highlighted and celebrated, the Church stands as a beacon of unity and reconciliation. Friends, this is not just a theological concept but a lived reality that we are called to embody. We are to be agents of reconciliation, living out the truth that in Christ, all barriers are broken down.

Paul emphasises that our reconciliation with God is the foundation for our reconciliation with one another. Ephesians 2:1-5 says, “And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air... But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved).” Our spiritual resurrection with Christ transforms us from the inside out, enabling us to live in harmony with others.

This transformation is beautifully illustrated in the story of Cornelius in Acts 10. Cornelius was a Gentile, yet God orchestrated a meeting between him and Peter, a Jew. Through a vision, God revealed to Peter that he should not call any man common or unclean. When Peter preached the gospel to Cornelius and his household, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, demonstrating that the gospel was for all people, not just the Jews. This event was a powerful confirmation that in Christ, there is no partiality.

Friends, the grace of God is the great equaliser. It levels the playing field, removing any basis for boasting or superiority. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Salvation is a gift, not a reward for our efforts. This truth humbles us and compels us to extend grace to others.

We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works (Ephesians 2:10). The Greek word for workmanship is “poiema,” which means a work of art. Each one of us is a unique masterpiece, created by God to reflect His glory. This diversity within unity enriches the Church, making it a vibrant and dynamic community. Our differences are not erased but celebrated, as we each bring our unique gifts and perspectives to the body of Christ.

Friends, have you ever stopped to marvel at the beauty of the Church? It’s a divine mosaic, a tapestry woven together by the masterful hand of God. Each thread, each piece is essential, contributing to the overall beauty and function of the whole. This is the mystery that Paul speaks of – that God would create such a diverse yet unified body to display His manifold wisdom to the world and to the heavenly realms (Ephesians 3:10).

This unity is not without purpose. Ephesians 3:9-11 explains that through the Church, the manifold wisdom of God is made known to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places. The Church is a living testimony to God's redemptive plan, a demonstration of His grace, and a foretaste of the ultimate reconciliation of all things in Christ. Our unity and love for one another are powerful witnesses to the world of the transforming power of the gospel.

In practical terms, this means that we are called to live out this unity in our daily lives. We are to be peacemakers, seeking reconciliation and understanding in our relationships. We are to break down walls of hostility and prejudice, extending the same grace and forgiveness that we have received. This is not always easy, but it is possible through the power of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us.

Let me share a story that illustrates this beautifully. There was once a small town that was divided by a river, with one community living on each side. For years, the two sides had little to do with each other, living in mutual suspicion and misunderstanding. One day, a severe storm caused the river to flood, and the only bridge that connected the two communities was washed away. The people were now completely cut off from each other.

In the aftermath of the storm, both communities realised they needed each other’s help to rebuild. Despite their differences, they came together to construct a new, stronger bridge. As they worked side by side, they began to share stories, meals, and even laughter. The process of rebuilding the bridge also rebuilt relationships and trust. By the time the bridge was finished, the two communities were no longer divided; they were united.

Friends, in a world where many are beaten and broken by life's battles, we have the opportunity to be bridge builders. Just as the people in the story came together to build a bridge, we are called to bridge gaps of division with the love and grace of Christ. Jesus is our peace, and He has won the victory over sin and death. Through Him, we can offer true peace and reconciliation to a hurting world.

As we reflect on the mystery of the Church, let’s remember that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves. We are part of God’s grand narrative of redemption and reconciliation. Our lives have eternal significance as we participate in this divine mission. We are ambassadors of Christ, entrusted with the message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-20). Let’s embrace this calling with joy and commitment, knowing that our labour is not in vain.

Friends, let’s also remember that this unity and peace are not something we strive to achieve on our own. It is a gift from God, made possible through the finished work of Christ. We rest in His sufficiency, trusting that He is at work in us and through us to accomplish His purposes. This rest is not passive but an active reliance on the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live out our calling with grace and love.

The mystery of the Church is a testament to the boundless grace of God. It’s a grace that reaches beyond our failures and shortcomings, inviting us into a relationship with Him and with one another. It’s a grace that transforms us from the inside out, enabling us to live in unity and peace. As we embrace this grace, we become living testimonies of God's redemptive power.

Furthermore, the book of Ephesians also highlights the importance of spiritual growth and maturity within the body of Christ. Paul urges us to “walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:1-3). This exhortation calls us to a higher standard of living, one that reflects the character of Christ and promotes unity within the Church.

We are to grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ (Ephesians 4:15). This growth involves both individual and corporate dimensions. Individually, we are to deepen our relationship with Christ, allowing His love and truth to transform us. Corporately, we are to support and encourage one another, recognising that we are interconnected and interdependent parts of the body. As each part does its share, the body grows and builds itself up in love (Ephesians 4:16).

Friends, this process of growth and maturation is not without challenges. It requires humility, patience, and a willingness to learn and grow together. It also involves confronting and addressing issues that threaten our unity. But through it all, we have the assurance that Christ is with us, guiding and empowering us by His Spirit.

As we conclude, let’s be encouraged by the words of Ephesians 3:20-21, “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” God’s power is at work in us, accomplishing more than we could ever imagine. His grace is sufficient, and His love is boundless.

Be blessed today my brothers and sisters. As we live out the mystery of the Church, let’s be reminded of the incredible privilege we have to be part of God’s redemptive plan. Let’s embrace our calling with joy, knowing that we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works. Let’s live in unity and peace, reflecting the love and grace of our Saviour to a world in desperate need of hope.

Phil