Topical Encyclopedia The term "fellow-citizens" is used in the New Testament to describe the relationship between believers in Christ, emphasizing their unity and shared identity within the body of Christ. This concept is rooted in the understanding of the Church as a spiritual community that transcends ethnic, cultural, and social boundaries.Biblical References: 1. Ephesians 2:19 : "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household." This verse is pivotal in understanding the concept of fellow-citizenship in the New Testament. The Apostle Paul addresses Gentile believers, affirming that through Christ, they are no longer outsiders but have been integrated into the community of God's people. This inclusion signifies a new identity and belonging, not based on ethnic lineage but on faith in Christ. 2. Philippians 3:20 : "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." Here, Paul contrasts earthly citizenship with heavenly citizenship, reminding believers that their ultimate allegiance and identity are in heaven. This heavenly citizenship unites believers as fellow-citizens, regardless of their earthly nationalities. Theological Implications: The concept of being fellow-citizens with the saints highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, which breaks down barriers and creates a new community. This new community is characterized by unity, peace, and mutual love, as believers are called to live out their heavenly citizenship on earth. 1. Unity in Diversity: The idea of fellow-citizenship underscores the unity of the Church, composed of diverse individuals who are united in Christ. This unity is not uniformity but a harmonious diversity that reflects the multifaceted wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10). 2. Belonging and Identity: Being fellow-citizens with the saints provides believers with a sense of belonging and identity. This identity is rooted in their relationship with Christ and their membership in God's household, offering a stable foundation amidst the shifting identities of the world. 3. Responsibility and Conduct: As fellow-citizens of heaven, believers are called to live in a manner worthy of their calling (Ephesians 4:1). This includes exhibiting the values of the Kingdom of God, such as love, justice, and holiness, in their interactions with others. Historical Context: In the Greco-Roman world, citizenship was a prized status that conferred certain rights and privileges. By using the metaphor of citizenship, Paul communicates the profound privileges and responsibilities that come with being part of God's kingdom. This metaphor would have resonated deeply with his audience, who understood the significance of citizenship in their own societal context. Practical Application: The concept of fellow-citizenship encourages believers to foster a sense of community and solidarity within the Church. It challenges them to transcend cultural and social divisions, embracing their shared identity in Christ. This has practical implications for how believers engage with one another, promoting reconciliation, hospitality, and mutual support. In summary, the term "fellow-citizens" in the New Testament encapsulates the essence of the Christian community as a unified body of believers who share a common heavenly citizenship. This identity calls for a life that reflects the values of God's kingdom, fostering unity and love among all who are in Christ. Greek 4847. sumpolites -- a fellow citizen ... citizen. Word Origin from sun and polites Definition a fellow citizen NASB Word Usage fellow citizens (1). fellow- citizen. From ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4847.htm - 6k Library Whether Piety Extends to Particular Human Individuals? The Servants and the Pounds. Ephesians ii. 17-22 Psalm CXXII. June the Thirteenth Clouded but not Lost! Whether we Ought to Love More those who are Connected with us by ... Whether Piety Provides Support for Our Parents? And Forgive us Our Debts as we Also have Forgiven Our Debtors How to Become Like Christ. Whether by Divine Justice an Eternal Punishment is Inflicted on ... Thesaurus Fellowcitizens (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Fellowcitizens (1 Occurrence). Ephesians 2:19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but ... /f/fellowcitizens.htm - 6k Fellow-citizens (1 Occurrence) Judaeus Fellow-citizen (1 Occurrence) Foreigners (76 Occurrences) Fellowdisciples (1 Occurrence) Philo People (13047 Occurrences) Citizens (28 Occurrences) Resources What happened on Paul's second missionary journey? | GotQuestions.orgHow should Christians view refugees? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about conscientious objection? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Fellow-citizens (1 Occurrence)Ephesians 2:19 Subtopics Related Terms |
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