Meaning of Ephesians 2:21

This verse, Ephesians 2:21, describes the organic and spiritual growth of the church, which is presented metaphorically as a building. It emphasizes the unity and interconnectedness of believers through Christ, who is the foundation and unifying principle. This building is not a static structure but one that is actively being constructed and "rising" in significance and holiness, dedicated to the Lord. The passage highlights that this spiritual edifice is composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers, who, once separated, are now brought together into a single, cohesive whole through Christ's sacrifice and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Context and Background

Ephesians 2 provides a crucial backdrop for understanding verse 21. Paul is explaining how Gentiles, who were formerly "outsiders to the covenants of promise," have been brought near to God through the blood of Christ. He contrasts their previous state of being "separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise" with their present reality of being "fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God." This reconciliation and inclusion, breaking down the "dividing wall of hostility," is the prerequisite for the unified building described in verse 21. The immediate preceding verses (2:19-20) explicitly state that believers are "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone." This establishes Christ as the central, indispensable element of the spiritual structure.

Key Themes and Messages

• Unity in Christ: The overarching theme is the profound unity achieved in Christ. The "whole building" signifies the entirety of the church, encompassing all believers across time and geography. This unity is not a human endeavor but a divine reality established by Christ.
• Organic Growth and Interconnectedness: The phrase "joined together" suggests a dynamic, living connection, not a mere assemblage of bricks. Believers are actively integrated into one another, contributing to the stability and growth of the entire structure.
• Holiness and Dedication: The purpose of this building is to become a "holy temple in the Lord." This points to the sanctification of believers through Christ and the church's role as a dwelling place for God's Spirit. It is a place set apart for divine inhabitation and worship.
• Christ as Cornerstone and Unifier: Christ is the essential element that holds everything together and provides the structural integrity and upward direction for the building. Without Him, there is no unified, holy temple.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, Ephesians 2:21 calls believers to recognize their vital role within the body of Christ. It challenges any tendencies towards division, exclusivity, or individualism within the church. Instead, it promotes an understanding of communal identity and responsibility. Each believer is a necessary component, contributing to the overall health and holiness of the temple. The verse encourages active participation in the life of the church, fostering mutual support, love, and spiritual edification, all aimed at presenting a unified and holy testimony to the world. It reminds us that our individual growth and sanctification contribute to the collective holiness of God's dwelling place.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This metaphor of the temple is deeply rooted in Old Testament imagery. God's presence was associated with the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem, where sacrifices were offered and His glory resided. In the New Testament, this concept is spiritualized. Jesus himself is referred to as the temple (John 2:19-21), and believers, individually and corporately, become the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19). Ephesians 2:21 fits into this progression, illustrating the culmination of God's redemptive plan: not a physical building, but a redeemed people indwelt by God, united in Christ, and destined for eternal fellowship. This fulfills the promise of God dwelling among His people.

Analogies

• A Living Organism: Just as the cells in a human body are interconnected and work together for the health and function of the whole, so too are believers in the body of Christ.
• A Growing Plant: The building is not static but "rising," much like a plant grows from a seed, with each part contributing to its overall development and reaching towards the light.
• A Symphony Orchestra: Each instrument plays a unique part, but it is only when all are played in harmony, guided by a conductor (Christ), that a beautiful and cohesive piece of music (the holy temple) is produced.

Relation to Other Verses

• 1 Corinthians 3:16-17: "Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple." This directly parallels the idea of believers as God's dwelling place.
• 1 Peter 2:4-5: "As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices to God through Jesus Christ." This verse echoes the building metaphor and emphasizes Christ as the "living stone."
• Galatians 3:28: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This highlights the inclusivity that underpins the unity described in Ephesians 2:21.
• John 17:20-23: Jesus' prayer for the unity of His followers, "that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you," finds its realization in the unified building of the church.