So then you are no longer strangers and aliens,         
 but you are citizens with the saints
and also members of the household of God.
Ephesians 2:19

 Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus is a comfort to many of us because, like the Ephesians, we are Gentiles. Before Christ, Israelites held unique status as God’s chosen people, but in Christ all people of the earth are reconciled with God. In Ephesians 2:14, Paul writes that “[Christ] is our peace.”

• Paul says, “you are no longer strangers.” Have you ever been a stranger in a town or country where you didn’t know anyone and the laws confused you? What is it like to be the strange one in the group?     
• What is the difference between an alien and a citizen? What is the difference between the status of a member of the household and the status of a visiting stranger? Which image that Paul uses resonates more strongly with you?
• If people treat aliens with respect and kindness, does that by itself make them citizens? What do you think it means to be “citizens with the saints?” 
• Elsewhere (Ephesians 2:13-14) Paul said, “In Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace.” How does this verse enhance your understanding of vs. 19?  
• Have you ever felt alienated from God? What happened to make you feel reconciled? How bad would it be if you could not be reconciled with God? 
• Do you find comfort in this verse? Why? If it is comforting, consider memorizing it. Many Christians have comforted themselves in times of great distress by recalling Bible verses they have memorized.