King James Bible
"But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ."
This phrase marks a dramatic temporal and spiritual transition from the Gentiles' former state of separation. Being "in Christ Jesus" indicates a new sphere of existence and identity, where union with Christ fundamentally transforms one's relationship to God. Paul refers to Gentiles who were previously excluded from Israel's covenant promises and alienated from God. The spatial metaphor of distance emphasizes their former position outside the commonwealth of Israel, without access to God's presence or promises. Christ's sacrificial death serves as the means of reconciliation, bringing those who were distant into intimate proximity with God. The blood represents the cost of removing the barrier between Jew and Gentile, creating one new humanity with equal access to the Father.