Jeffrey C. Long

You are no longer guests and strangers, but fellow-citizens with the

saints and members of God’s household.

(Ephesians 2:19)

These words are said of the Gentiles who up to this point could only be received as guests and foreigners among the people of God. But through faith in Christ the Gentiles also obtain the rights pertaining to the people of God, so that they never again need stand neglected and on the outside. They are no longer called guests or strangers; they have full rights of citizenship with the saints; they are members of God’s household just as surely as the Israelites who belong to the descendants of Abraham. They have obtained complete, equivalent and plenary rights, have been enrolled in the ranks of Israel and stand under God’s protection and defense, recognized and acknowledged by Him. Since the Israelites received the promise of the Holy Spirit, the Gentiles also receive participation in him.

Therefore we too are now fellow-citizens with the saints. Although we are not yet completely liberated (indeed, we sigh in a sort of captivity as we await the promised redemption), still we hold in our hands the patent of our nobility. But the time will come when all rights will be put into effect, our rights and the rights of all mankind. At that time everyone, whoever it may be, who has served the Lord as a faithful servant will be able to enter into the joy of his Lord.

Johann Christoph Blumhardt

Translated by Monty Ledford

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