Ephesians 2:13

Key Reflection

In Ephesians 2:13, Paul describes a condition of separation from Christ and exclusion from the covenantal relationship with Israel. This passage paints a vivid picture of individuals who were once estranged from God’s promises and separated both spiritually and socially. The term "commonwealth of Israel" (ἔθνος Ἰσραήλ, ethnos Israēl) refers to the community or nation of Israel as a whole, highlighting that those described here were not just individuals but part of a larger group excluded from God’s covenantal blessings. This state of separation included being without hope and devoid of divine presence in this world, emphasizing their complete alienation from both spiritual and temporal aspects of God's will.