“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God,” (Ephesians 2:19 (ESV)
Ephesians 2:19 begins with the phrase “so then,” which indicates a result clause. The result of Jews and Gentiles being one in Christ (Ephesians 2:11-18) is consequently the Gentiles are no longer strangers and aliens to God and His covenant community.
The word strangers (ξένος; xenos) refers to a spiritual foreigner (Matt 25:35, 38, 43, 44; 27:7; Ac 17:21; Heb. 11:13; 3 John 5). The word aliens (πάροικος; paroikos) means a temporary resident ((Acts 7:6, 29; 1 Peter 2:11+). Scripture still refers to believers as exiles in this world (I Peter 1:1; Philippians 3:20; Hebrews 11:13-16), which means that the Christian’s real homeland is in heaven.
Instead of being a stranger or an alien to God, Gentile believers in Christ are presently and actively fellow citizens (συμπολίτης; sympolites) with the saints. Saints (ἅγιος; hagios) are individuals who solely belong to God. They are dedicated, and consecrated to obey God and His Word (Mark 6:20; 1Cor. 6:2; 2 Cor. 13:12; Philip. 4:22; Rev. 18:20; 22:21).
The Apostle Paul also calls Gentiles in Christ members of the household of God (οἰκεῖος; oikelos). This means Gentile believers are members of God’s family.
Remember this great gospel song from years ago.
Chorus
I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God
I’ve been washed in the fountain cleansed by His blood!
Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod,
For I’m part of the family, the family of God.
You will notice we say “brother and sister” ’round here –
It’s because we’re a family and these folks are so near;
When one has a heartache we all share the tears, And rejoice in each victory in this family so dear.
From the door of an orphanage to the house of the King –
No longer an outcast, a new song I sing;
From rags unto riches, from the weak to the strong,
I’m not worthy to be here, but praise God I belong!
Thanks be to God I’m part of His family. I pray that you are too.
Soli deo Gloria!
His Word Today 