This sermon focuses on peace as the result of Messianic salvation. The term “peace” is grounded in the OT idea of shalom which means “well-being.” In this case peace is what is for both Jew and Gentile who believe in Christ for salvation. The “dividing wall” in this passage refers to the balustrade in the temple that kept Gentiles out of the place of worship under threat of death.  This barrier is “destroyed” in Christ according to Paul. Those who were formerly alienated can now partake in salvation along with all Jews who trust Jesus Christ by faith. The two thereby become one.

We point out that those who do not trust Christ are lost and alienated from God no matter how pleasant their life may be. Jesus taught this in Luke 12:16-21 which we reference. Isaiah 48:22 says that there is no peace for the wicked. The term “hostility” in this section sits between the reference to the dividing wall in verse 14 and the law in verse 15. We explain the grammatical issues in the Greek and conclude that the hostility that Jesus removes refers to both the wall and the Law. It is also important to know that peace in this passage and many others is not about a psychological state, but the reconciliation of sinners to God through the blood atonement. No matter how nice a person might seem, whoever does not turn to Christ through the gospel is an enemy of God who needs reconciliation. We point people to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

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