“Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God” (Ephesians 2:19).
The concept was so earthshattering Nicodemus could not get his head wrapped around it: How can a grown man be born again? (John 3:3-4).
Neither incredulity nor disbelief can change the truth that the One who occupies heaven’s throne can and does make all things new (Revelation 21:5). Therefore, it is true: A Christian is not defined by where he has been but by where he is going.
In Christ, the guilt, shame, and degradation of sin no longer defines and enslaves. What wonderful blessings are found in those two words—“no longer”.
- No longer do I live my life in futility, having my understanding darkened by spiritual ignorance and error (Ephesians 4:18).
- As a new creature who walks in newness of life, I am no longer a slave of sin (Romans 6:6).
- In Christ, death no longer has dominion over me (Romans 6:9).
- No longer am I tossed to and fro and carried about by every wind of doctrine (Ephesians 4:14).
- It is no longer I who live but Christ lives in me (Galatians 2:20).
- I no longer live for myself (2 Corinthians 5:15).
- No longer am I a stranger and foreigner—spiritually bankrupt; I am a fellow citizen with the saints, a member of God’s household (Ephesians 2:19)—blessed with every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3).
No longer!
