Built on the Foundation of Faith: Understanding

Ephesians 2:21 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)
²¹in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord,

This verse continues the thought from verse 20 and describes the church as a building that is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.

The phrase “the whole building, being fitted together” suggests that the church is a united community, with all believers being connected and working together towards a common goal. The image of a building being fitted together suggests that the church is growing and becoming stronger as it is united in Christ.

The phrase “a holy temple in the Lord” suggests that the church is a place where God dwells and is honored. The term “holy” suggests that the church is set apart for God’s use and purpose and is to be used for His glory. The term “temple” suggests that the church is a place of worship and fellowship with God.

In whom – refers to Jesus Christ, who is the foundation of the building mentioned in this verse.

The whole building – refers to the community of believers or the church. This phrase emphasizes the unity and completeness of the church, which is built on the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ.

Being fitted together – refers to the unity and cohesion of the church. The church is not a collection of individuals, but a united body, built on the foundation of Christ.

Is growing into – refers to the growth and development of the church. The church is not a static entity, but it is constantly growing and being built up by the Holy Spirit.

A holy temple – refers to the church as a sacred space set apart for the worship and service of God. This phrase emphasizes the holiness and righteousness of the church, which is made possible by the work of Jesus Christ.

In the Lord – refers to the ultimate authority and sovereignty of God in the church. The church belongs to God and is under His authority, and it is through Him that the church is able to become a holy temple.

Overall, this verse emphasizes the unity, growth, holiness, and authority of the church, which is built on the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ. It is a reminder of the importance of building the church on the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ and the role of the Holy Spirit in the growth and development of the church. This verse is a reminder of the unity and purpose of the church as a community of believers who are joined together in Christ and working towards the common goal of becoming a holy temple in the Lord. It is a reminder of the importance of the church as a place of worship and fellowship with God.

Historical and Cultural Context

The letter was written during a time when the early Christian church was still in its infancy and facing many challenges. In the historical and cultural context of the ancient Mediterranean world, the concept of a “building” or “temple” would have been familiar to the readers of this letter. Temples were important religious and cultural centers in ancient cities, and they were often the focus of civic and religious life. The imagery of a building or temple would have been a powerful way for Paul to convey his message about the nature and purpose of the church.

In this context, the verse Ephesians 2:21 can be understood as a reminder that the church is a sacred space set apart for the worship and service of God. The imagery of a building or temple, which is complete and united, emphasizes the unity and cohesion of the church, which is built on the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ. It also emphasizes the holiness of the church, which is made possible by the work of Jesus Christ.

Furthermore, In the historical context of the new covenant of Jesus Christ, the Gentiles were included in the community of believers. This verse can also be interpreted as a reminder of the unity of all believers, regardless of their background, and how through Jesus Christ, all the believers, Jews, and Gentiles, are united in one body and one temple.

In summary, Ephesians 2:21, in the historical and cultural context of the ancient Mediterranean world, emphasizes the unity, holiness, and authority of the church, which is built on the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ, and the role of the Holy Spirit in the growth and development of the church. It also highlights the inclusion of the Gentiles in the community of believers and the unity of the body of Christ.