How does the Teaching understand Ephesians 2 and the phrase ‘once Gentiles’?
Quick Answer
It reads Ephesians 2 as saying former Gentiles were once alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and the covenants of promise but are brought near through Messiah.
Key Scriptures
Detailed Biblical Study
Related Teaching
Paul Taught Nothing but Torah and the Old Testament – PART 2
Part 2 continues the Teaching’s argument that Paul’s writings should be read in continuity with the Torah and the Hebrew Scriptures rather than as an abolition of God’s law. The Teaching connects Paul’s language about Gentile inclusion, the commonwealth of Israel, the olive tree, justification by faith, being ‘under the law,’ and the ‘certificate of debt’ to passages in Genesis, Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings. It argues that salvation and justification are by faith, while obedience is a response to God rather than a means of earning salvation. Romans 14 and Colossians 2 are presented as passages that must be read in their immediate context rather than as permission to set aside Sabbath, appointed times, or biblical food instructions. The Teaching closes by urging viewers to test Paul’s words against Scripture, following the example of the Bereans.
