Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "walls of partition" in biblical theology often refers to the divisions that existed between Jews and Gentiles, particularly in the context of religious and cultural practices. This separation is most notably addressed in the New Testament, where the Apostle Paul speaks of the reconciliation brought about through Jesus Christ.Historical Context In the ancient world, the Jewish people were set apart by God through the covenant with Abraham and the Law given to Moses. This covenant included various laws and ordinances that distinguished the Israelites from surrounding nations. These distinctions were both physical, such as circumcision, and ceremonial, such as dietary laws and temple worship. The temple in Jerusalem itself had a literal wall of partition, known as the Soreg, which separated the Court of the Gentiles from the inner courts accessible only to Jews. This physical barrier symbolized the broader spiritual and social separation between Jews and Gentiles. Biblical References The Apostle Paul addresses the metaphorical "wall of partition" in his letter to the Ephesians. In Ephesians 2:14-16 , Paul writes: "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing in His flesh the law of commandments and decrees. He did this to create in Himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and reconciling both of them to God in one body through the cross, by which He extinguished their hostility." This passage highlights the transformative work of Christ in breaking down the barriers that separated Jews and Gentiles. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the Law and established a new covenant, creating a unified body of believers. Theological Significance The removal of the "wall of partition" signifies the inclusivity of the Gospel message. It underscores the belief that salvation through Jesus Christ is available to all people, regardless of ethnic or cultural background. This theological truth is foundational to the Christian understanding of the Church as a diverse yet unified body of believers. The breaking down of these walls also emphasizes the theme of reconciliation, not only between humanity and God but also among individuals and communities. The early Church grappled with integrating Jewish and Gentile believers, as seen in the Acts of the Apostles and the epistles. The resolution of these tensions through the Gospel message serves as a model for addressing divisions within the Church today. Practical Implications The concept of the "walls of partition" challenges believers to examine and dismantle any barriers that may exist within the Church or their own hearts. It calls for an embrace of unity in diversity, reflecting the reconciliatory work of Christ. Christians are encouraged to live out this unity by fostering relationships across cultural and ethnic lines, demonstrating the love and peace that Christ has established. In conclusion, the "walls of partition" serve as a powerful metaphor for the divisions that once existed between Jews and Gentiles, and their removal through Christ's work is central to the message of the New Testament. This theme continues to inspire and challenge believers to pursue unity and reconciliation in the body of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 2:14For he is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Barriers Broken Down 'The Chief Corner-Stone' Book iii. The Words of the Lord, I in the Father... Answer to Eunomius' Second Book . Resources Why was it important to rebuild the walls around Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should we learn from the walls of Jericho falling down? | GotQuestions.org What will be the purpose of the walls around the New Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics of the Cities Walls of Babylon of the Cities Walls of Bashan, Destroyed by the Israelites of the Cities Walls of Beth-Shan of the Cities Walls of Jericho of the Cities Walls of the New Jerusalem of the Cities Walls: Houses Built Upon Walls of Cities were Battered by Besieging Armies Walls of Cities were Broad and Places of Public Resort Walls of Cities were Strongly Manned in War Walls of Cities: Adroitness of Soldiers in Scaling Alluded To Walls of Cities: Custom of Dedicating Walls of Cities: Danger of Approaching Too Near To, in Time of War Walls of Cities: Destruction of, a Punishment and Cause of Grief Walls of Cities: Frequently Laid in Ruins Walls of Cities: had Towers Built on Them Walls of Cities: Houses often Built On Walls of Cities: Houses Sometimes Broken Down to Repair, and Fortify Walls of Cities: Idolatrous Rites Performed On Walls of Cities: Kept by Watchmen Night and Day Walls of Cities: Often Very High Walls of Cities: Persons Let Down From Walls of Cities: Sometimes Burned Walls of Cities: Strongly Fortified Walls of Cities: The Bodies of Enemies Sometimes Fastened On, As a Disgrace Walls of Cities: The Falling of, Sometimes Occasioned Great Destruction Walls of Houses: Could be Easily Dug Through Walls of Houses: had Nails or Pegs Fastened Into Them when Built Walls of Houses: Liable to Leprosy Walls of Houses: Often Infested With Serpents Walls of Houses: The Seat Next, Was the Place of Distinction Walls of Houses: Usually Plastered Walls of Ordinances As a Protection to the Church Walls of the Church As a Protection to the Nation Walls of the Protection of God Walls of the Wealth of the Rich in his own Conceit Walls of Those Who Afford Protection Walls were Probably often Strengthened With Plates of Iron or Brass Walls: (Bowing or Tottering) of the Wicked Under Judgments Walls: (Brazen) of Prophets in Their Testimony Against the Wicked Walls: (Daubed With Untempered Mortar) of the Teaching of False Walls: (Of Partition) Separation of Jews and Gentiles Walls: Designed for Separation Walls: Frequently Made of Stone and Wood Together Walls: Hyssop Frequently Grew On Walls: Miracles Connected With: Falling of the Walls of Jericho Walls: Miracles Connected With: Handwriting on the Wall of Belshazzar's Palace Walls: Small Towns and Villages Were not Surrounded By Related Terms |
    |