Topical Encyclopedia
The term "Fellow-Citizens With the Saints" is a significant designation found within the New Testament, specifically in the Pauline epistles. This title underscores the unity and shared identity of believers in Christ, emphasizing their inclusion in the spiritual community of God's people.
Biblical Reference:The primary scriptural reference for this title is found in
Ephesians 2:19, where the Apostle Paul writes: "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household" . This passage is part of a broader discourse on the reconciliation of Jews and Gentiles through Christ, highlighting the breaking down of barriers and the creation of one new humanity.
Theological Significance:1.
Unity in Christ: The title "Fellow-Citizens With the Saints" reflects the profound unity that believers have in Christ. It signifies that all who are in Christ, regardless of their ethnic or cultural backgrounds, are part of the same spiritual nation. This unity is not based on earthly citizenship but on a heavenly one, as believers are part of the Kingdom of God.
2.
Inclusion and Belonging: This designation emphasizes the inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant community, which was once primarily associated with the Jewish people. Through Christ, Gentiles are no longer outsiders but are fully integrated into the community of faith, sharing in the promises and blessings given to the saints.
3.
Spiritual Identity: Being "fellow-citizens with the saints" speaks to the new identity that believers possess. This identity is rooted in their relationship with Christ and their membership in the body of believers. It transcends earthly affiliations and points to a higher allegiance to God's kingdom.
4.
Eschatological Hope: The concept of being fellow-citizens with the saints also carries an eschatological dimension. It points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where all believers will dwell together in the new heavens and new earth, fully realizing their citizenship in the eternal kingdom.
Practical Implications:1.
Community and Fellowship: This title encourages believers to live in harmony and fellowship with one another, recognizing their shared citizenship. It calls for the breaking down of divisions within the church and the fostering of a community that reflects the unity of the Spirit.
2.
Mission and Witness: As fellow-citizens with the saints, believers are called to be ambassadors of God's kingdom, living out their faith in a way that draws others to Christ. Their shared identity should motivate them to work together in spreading the gospel and serving the world.
3.
Spiritual Growth: Understanding their status as fellow-citizens with the saints should inspire believers to grow in holiness and maturity, striving to live lives worthy of their calling and reflecting the character of Christ.
In summary, the title "Fellow-Citizens With the Saints" is a profound expression of the unity, identity, and hope that believers have in Christ. It calls them to live out their faith in community, mission, and spiritual growth, as they anticipate the full realization of their citizenship in God's eternal kingdom.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Ephesians 2:19Now therefore you are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
English Version of the Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566.
... that 'in the books of the Kings, the names and books of ... although they be set out
with goodly titles, as though ... OR OF IMAGES OF GOD, OF CHRIST, AND OF SAINTS. ...
/.../english version of the second.htm
St. Gregory the Great.
... lie in dust and ashes seek for themselves vanitous names: glory in new and profane
titles. ... in Rome for the Christian faith, and become its patron saints. ...
/.../allies/the formation of christendom volume vi/chapter v st gregory the.htm
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