Ephesians 2:18 – “For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.”

Extended Explanation

This verse is a powerful statement about the unity and privilege that believers now have because of Jesus Christ. Paul explains that through Jesus (“him”), both Jews and Gentiles (“we both”) have the same access to God (“the Father”), and this happens by one Spirit—the Holy Spirit.

Before Jesus, access to God was limited. The Jews had the temple, the priests, and the sacrificial system. Gentiles were completely excluded from the deeper worship of God. But now, Paul declares that both groups are equally welcomed into God’s presence.

The key points in this verse are:

1. “Through him” – Jesus is the only way to God. Without His sacrifice, no one could have direct access to the Father.
2. “We both” – Paul emphasizes the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ. There is no longer separation.
3. “Access to the Father” – This is a privilege that was once reserved for a select few (priests in the Old Testament), but now all believers can approach God freely.
4. “By one Spirit” – The Holy Spirit is the one who makes this access possible. He dwells in believers and connects them to the Father.

Historical Context

In the Old Testament, access to God was limited:

• Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place in the temple, and only once a year (Leviticus 16:2).
• The Jewish people had some access to God through worship at the temple, but they were still separated from His full presence.
• Gentiles had no access at all. There was a physical wall in the temple separating them from worshiping with the Jews.

When Jesus died, the temple curtain was torn in two (Matthew 27:51), symbolizing that access to God was now open to everyone through Christ. This was revolutionary—no longer did people need a priest or sacrifices to approach God. Now, through Jesus and by the Holy Spirit, anyone can come to the Father directly.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several key spiritual truths:

1. Jesus is the only way to God. People do not come to the Father through religion, good deeds, or personal effort, but only through Jesus (John 14:6).
2. All believers have equal access to God. There is no special class of Christians—everyone can approach God through Christ.
3. The Holy Spirit plays a central role. The Spirit dwells in believers, guiding and empowering them to live in close relationship with God.
4. Christianity is not about division, but unity. The barriers between Jews and Gentiles have been removed—now all who believe are part of God’s family.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse is significant:

• “Through him” – Jesus is the mediator; without Him, access to God would be impossible.
• “We both” – Paul intentionally emphasizes unity between Jews and Gentiles.
• “Have access” – This is a present reality, not something that will happen in the future. Believers already have access to God.
• “To the Father” – The goal of salvation is not just avoiding judgment, but having a relationship with God as His children.
• “By one Spirit” – The Holy Spirit is not divided—He unites all believers under Christ.

Biblical Cross-References

• John 14:6 – “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Jesus is the only way to God.
• Romans 5:2 – “Through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.” Jesus gives believers direct access to God’s grace.
• Hebrews 10:19-20 – “We have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus.” The way to God is now open for all believers.
• 1 Corinthians 12:13 – “For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles.” The Holy Spirit unites believers into one family.
• Galatians 4:6 – “Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.'” The Holy Spirit gives believers a deep, personal relationship with God.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds believers of the privilege of direct access to God. Many people today still think they need a religious leader, special rituals, or good works to come to God. But Paul makes it clear: through Jesus, every believer has direct access to the Father.

This also means that Christians should not see themselves as divided. Whether someone comes from a different background, culture, or church tradition, all believers have the same access to God. There is no hierarchy in God’s family—all who believe are welcome.

Additionally, this verse challenges Christians to rely on the Holy Spirit. It is by the Spirit that believers can truly connect with God, live in His presence, and follow His guidance.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reveals the heart of God’s love. He is not distant or unreachable—He wants a relationship with His people.

God’s love is seen in:

• Giving Jesus – He provided the way for people to come near to Him.
• Sending the Holy Spirit – He did not leave believers alone but gave them the Spirit to guide and strengthen them.
• Offering direct access – God welcomes everyone who comes to Him through Christ—He does not make salvation complicated or exclusive.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the reason this verse is true. Without Him, there would still be a barrier between people and God.

• John 10:9 – “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.” Jesus is the door to the Father.
• Ephesians 3:12 – “In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.” Jesus removes fear and restriction in approaching God.
• Hebrews 7:25 – “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Jesus is the ongoing mediator between people and God.
• Matthew 27:51 – “At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” Jesus’ death removed the barrier separating people from God.

Through Jesus, everyone—regardless of background—can come near to God and be part of His family.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean to you personally that you have direct access to the Father?
2. How does this verse challenge the idea that some people are “closer to God” than others?
3. What role does the Holy Spirit play in your daily relationship with God?
4. How does this verse encourage unity between believers from different backgrounds?
5. In what ways can you live with greater confidence, knowing that you can approach God freely?