Sermon Summary - Tearing Down the Walls that Divide Us

                             

In today’s sermon on Ephesians 2:11-22, I addressed the attempted assignation of former President Trump. I reflected on the deep divisions within our nation and among Christians. The recent assassination attempt serves as a stark reminder of our fractured state, torn apart by politics, religion, and ideology. Regardless of our political affiliations or beliefs, we must unequivocally condemn violence and recognize that such hostility is antithetical to the teachings of Christ.

 The core message from Ephesians is clear: Christ came to break down barriers and unite us. The Apostle Paul’s writings emphasize that in Christ, there is no distinction between Jew or Gentile, slave or free; we are all one. Yet today, we see these divisions exacerbated within Christianity and society at large. As a progressive Christian, I admit to feeling discomfort towards fundamental evangelicals, but I understand now more than ever that such differences should not erect walls between us.

 The passage emphasizes that through Christ’s sacrifice, God intended to reconcile humanity and eliminate divisions. It challenges us to reflect on how we contribute to these divides, whether through political polarization or theological disagreements. We must embody civility—respecting others, understanding differences, and striving for unity—even when it’s difficult.

 The vision of Ephesians is profound: to build a holy temple where God can dwell among us. It’s a call to transform our hearts and society, rejecting hostility and embracing peace. As Christians, we are tasked with tearing down walls, fostering dialogue, and honoring each other as children of God. It’s not just a moral imperative; it’s a spiritual obligation to create a space where God’s presence can thrive.

Today’s sermon urges us to heed this call: to be agents of unity, builders of peace, and guardians of civility. As we confront the challenges of our time, let us commit ourselves to being the dwelling place of God, where love and understanding triumph over division and discord. This is not just a hope but a necessity for our faith and our nation’s future.