"Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called "Uncircumcision" by the so-called "Circumcision," which is performed in the flesh by human hands-12remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world." - Ephesians 2:11-12 (NASB)
“Therefore” can be found in both Ephesians 2:1-10 and Ephesians 1:3-2:10. Paul frequently uses this term to introduce a new section while building upon the combined truths of preceding sections, as seen in Romans 5:1, 8:1, and 12:1. In his doctrinal exposition to the Ephesians spanning chapters 1 through 3, Paul highlights several core truths crucial for believers. The initial pivotal truth emphasized by Paul relates to God’s timeless selection, stemming from His gracious nature (Ephesians 1:3-14). This emphasizes divine sovereignty in salvation and underscores the foundational role of God’s grace in the lives of believers.
The second truth highlights God’s wisdom being inherent in Jesus, as opposed to the erroneous teachings of Gnostic ideologies. Paul emphasizes the importance of believers comprehending the gospel in its entirety (Ephesians 1:15-23), thereby fortifying their faith against false doctrines.
The third truth confronts the hopelessness of fallen humanity, emphasizing the necessity of God’s gracious intervention through Christ, to be received and lived out by faith (Ephesians 2:1-10). This underscores the pivotal role of faith in appropriating God’s redemptive work.
Moving to the fourth major truth, Paul explains God’s eternal plan for saving all people, including both Jews and non-Jews (Ephesians 2:11-3:13). This is in line with God’s plan for redemption described in the Old Testament.
Now here, verse 11 provides a compelling insight into the transformation experienced by Gentile believers in Christ and the deep implications it carries for their identity and relationships. The word “remember” is a Present Active Imperative; a command to these Gentile believers to reflect on their previous state before encountering Christ. The phrase “the Gentiles in the flesh” is actually a reference to all individuals who are not descendants of Jacob. In the Old Testament, the term “nations” was employed in a derogatory manner to address non-Jews. Being labeled by the derogatory term “uncircumcision” in contrast to the “circumcision” of the Jews, we see the stark division and disdain between Jews and Gentiles. The ritual of circumcision, once a defining symbol of covenant and identity for the Jews, is reevaluated by Paul. He employs the term “done by hand” to challenge its significance in the era of Christ, emphasizing a radical shift in perspective. This recalibration of values speaks to Paul’s transformed understanding of the law and its role in light of the new covenant in Christ (read Galatians).
The phrase “separate from Christ” in verse 12, highlights the idea of being on separate foundations. This concept is underscored by passages such as Ephesians 2:1-3, which vividly illustrate the state of helplessness and hopelessness experienced by Gentiles without Christ. The term “excluded” is a Perfect Passive Participle which means that the Gentiles have been and continue to be excluded from the “commonwealth of Israel” (citizensip). In the Old Testament, this term referred to resident non-citizens with limited rights, similar to aliens. The Gentiles were separated and alienated from the Covenant of YHWH. They were detached from the covenant life of Israel and lacked knowledge of the Scriptures, including the anticipation of the Messiah. This exclusion extended to their citizenship in the community of Israel, depriving them of the privileged position and favor shown to God’s people. Notably, Paul’s emphasis is not on the political entity, but rather on Israel as the chosen people of God, defined by their ethnicity, faith, and divine election.
The Gentiles’ alienation is further underscored by their lack of hope and separation from the knowledge of the one true God. Paul explains that their religious traditions, though containing elements of hope in an afterlife, were ultimately devoid of the truth he proclaimed. Additionally, the term “without God” as used by Paul carries a nuanced meaning, signifying not merely a lack of devotion to specific deities, but a fundamental alienation from the one God who embodies life and truth. If there is indeed one creator God and Israel was His chosen people, the Gentiles were without any hope, engulfed in idolatry and paganism (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:13 and Romans 1:18-2:16).
It is crucial to acknowledge Paul’s purpose in expressing these truths. Rather than conveying a message of judgment, his statements convey a deep sense of inclusiveness. By outlining the challenges faced by the Gentiles, Paul establishes the foundation for a significant change in perception. He tackles the cultural and spiritual obstacles that divided the Gentiles from God’s promises, creating an opportunity for a unifying and redemptive message through Christ.
In summary, the passage stands as evidence of Paul’s dedication to inclusivity and the all-encompassing nature of God’s plan for redemption. It provides valuable understanding of the historical and religious context of the era, all the while representing an enduring message of optimism, harmony, and the life-changing influence of God’s mercy.
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