In the biblical context, the concept of removing barriers often refers to the elimination of obstacles that hinder spiritual growth, fellowship, and the fulfillment of God's purposes. These barriers can be physical, spiritual, or relational, and their removal is frequently depicted as an act of divine intervention or human obedience to God's commands.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, barriers are often physical obstacles that God removes to demonstrate His power and faithfulness. A notable example is the parting of the Red Sea, where God removes the barrier of water to allow the Israelites to escape from Egypt (Exodus 14:21-22). This miraculous event symbolizes God's ability to remove any hindrance that stands in the way of His people's deliverance.

Another significant instance is the fall of the walls of Jericho. In Joshua 6, God instructs the Israelites to march around the city, and on the seventh day, the walls collapse. This event illustrates the principle that obedience to God's instructions can lead to the removal of seemingly insurmountable barriers.

Spiritual Barriers

Spiritual barriers often refer to sin and unbelief, which separate individuals from God. Isaiah 59:2 states, "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear." The removal of these barriers is central to the message of redemption and reconciliation found throughout Scripture.

The sacrificial system in the Old Testament, culminating in the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ in the New Testament, addresses the removal of the barrier of sin. Hebrews 10:19-20 declares, "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body." Here, the tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion symbolizes the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting believers direct access to God.

Relational Barriers

The Bible also addresses relational barriers, such as those caused by prejudice, hostility, and division. Ephesians 2:14-16 speaks of Christ as the one who "has made both one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility." This passage refers to the reconciliation between Jews and Gentiles, emphasizing that in Christ, all believers are united, and barriers of ethnicity and cultural differences are removed.

The early church faced challenges in overcoming these relational barriers, as seen in Acts 10, where Peter is called to minister to the Gentile Cornelius. Through a vision, God reveals to Peter that the gospel is for all people, breaking down the barrier of Jewish exclusivity.

Practical Application

Believers are called to actively participate in the removal of barriers in their own lives and communities. This involves repentance, forgiveness, and the pursuit of unity. Matthew 5:23-24 instructs, "Therefore if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift." This teaching underscores the importance of addressing relational barriers before engaging in worship.

In summary, the biblical theme of removing barriers encompasses God's power to overcome physical obstacles, the redemptive work of Christ to eliminate spiritual separation, and the call for believers to foster reconciliation and unity. Through faith and obedience, barriers that hinder the fulfillment of God's purposes can be dismantled.