Ephesians 2:17 – “He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.”

Extended Explanation

This verse highlights the message and mission of Jesus Christ. Paul explains that Jesus came to bring peace, not just to one group of people, but to both those who were “far away” and those who were “near.”

• “You who were far away” refers to the Gentiles—people who had no connection to Israel, no knowledge of God’s law, and no part in His covenant. They were outside of God’s promises.
• “Those who were near” refers to the Jews. They had the Scriptures, the temple, and a long history of being God’s chosen people.

Even though the Jews had greater knowledge of God, they still needed salvation, just like the Gentiles. The message is clear: both groups needed Jesus, and He came to bring them the same peace.

Paul is emphasizing that salvation is for everyone. Jesus didn’t just come for Israel—He came for the whole world. His message of peace is universal, breaking down the barriers between races, cultures, and social classes.

Historical Context

In Paul’s time, there was a huge division between Jews and Gentiles. The Jews believed they were God’s special people because they had received the law and the promises through Abraham. Gentiles, on the other hand, were considered outsiders.

The temple in Jerusalem even had a physical wall separating Jews from Gentiles. This wall symbolized the deep spiritual and cultural divide between the two groups.

But when Jesus came, He broke down that wall. He preached to everyone—to Jewish religious leaders, to Samaritans (who were half-Jewish), and to Roman soldiers. After His resurrection, He commanded His disciples to go into all the world and preach the gospel (Matthew 28:19-20).

Paul is reminding his readers that Jesus’ mission was never limited to just one group. He came to bring peace to all people, no matter their background.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important spiritual truths:

1. Jesus is the source of peace. True peace is not found in religion, government, or personal success—it is only found in Christ.
2. Salvation is for everyone. Jesus’ message is not just for one race, nation, or social class—it is for all who believe.
3. Both Jews and Gentiles needed salvation. Even though the Jews had the law, they still needed Jesus just as much as the Gentiles did.
4. Jesus’ mission was to remove division. His message of peace was meant to unite people, not separate them.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse is intentional and powerful:

• “He came and preached peace” – Jesus didn’t just bring peace; He actively proclaimed it. His life, death, and resurrection were a message of peace to the world.
• “To you who were far away” – This refers to Gentiles, showing that Jesus’ mission extended beyond Israel.
• “To those who were near” – This refers to the Jews, reminding them that they still needed to hear and accept Jesus’ message.

The repetition of the word “peace” is key. Paul is reinforcing the idea that Jesus’ work was about ending hostility and bringing people into a right relationship with God and with each other.

Biblical Cross-References

• Isaiah 57:19 – “Peace, peace to those far and near,” says the Lord. Paul is likely referencing this Old Testament prophecy, showing that Jesus fulfilled it.
• John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” Jesus personally promised peace to His followers.
• Acts 10:34-36 – “God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him… You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ.” Peter recognizes that the gospel is for all people.
• Romans 5:1 – “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” True peace comes from being made right with God through Jesus.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a powerful reminder that Jesus’ message is for everyone. No one is too far gone, too sinful, or too different to receive God’s peace.

It also challenges Christians to live as peacemakers. If Jesus broke down barriers, then His followers should not build them back up. This means treating others with love, sharing the gospel without discrimination, and working for reconciliation in relationships and communities.

Additionally, this verse reassures those who feel distant from God. Some people think they have messed up too much or are too far from God to be forgiven. But Jesus came specifically to bring peace to those who are far away.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in His desire for reconciliation. He does not want people to remain lost or divided—He sent Jesus to bring people together and to restore their relationship with Him.

This verse also shows that God’s love is active. He didn’t wait for people to find Him—He came to them. Through Jesus, God pursued those who were far away and invited them into His family.

God’s love is also inclusive. He does not show favoritism—His peace is available to anyone who will receive it.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is at the center of this verse. Without Him, there is no peace, no reconciliation, and no salvation.

• Luke 19:10 – “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Jesus actively sought out those who were far from God.
• Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Jesus offers peace and rest to all who come to Him.
• Colossians 1:20 – “And through him to reconcile to himself all things… by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.” Jesus’ death was the ultimate act of bringing peace.
• Ephesians 2:14 – “For he himself is our peace.” Jesus is not just the messenger of peace—He is peace.

Everything about Jesus—His life, His death, His resurrection—was about bringing people back to God and to each other.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean that Jesus preached peace? How does that apply to us today?
2. How does this verse challenge you to see others—especially those who seem “far away” from God?
3. In what ways can you be a peacemaker in your family, church, or community?
4. Why is it important to remember that both those “far away” and those “near” needed salvation?
5. How can you share the peace of Christ with someone who feels distant from God?