But now in Christ Jesus; either in the kingdom of Christ, or gospel administration, Galatians 5:6; or, ye being in Christ, united to him by the Spirit and faith. Being in Christ, here, is opposed to being in the world, Ephesians 1:12. Ye who sometimes were far off; far from God, from his church, from his promises, &c., having no communion with him by his Spirit. He means a spiritual distance, yet seems to allude to Isaiah 49:1,12; those Gentiles there mentioned being estranged from God in their hearts, as well as removed from his people in place. And made nigh; brought into a state of communion with God and his people, and participation of their privileges, and right to the promises. By the blood of Christ; the merit of his death expiating sin, (which caused this distance), and so making way for their approach to God, and enjoyment of gospel blessings.

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