233(Rom. 5:11; Col. 1:19–20). This gospel brings hostile parties
together (Col. 1:21) and heals relationships between God and
humanity, and between people.
The gospel brings things back to their created order, the
truth and order of God. In terms of relationships, we think that
God’s order of relationship is himself and the way he works. And
that is why we think boundaries are so important, because he
has them and we are to be redeemed into his image.
Boundaries are inherent in any relationship God has created,
for they define the two parties who are loving each other. In this
sense, boundaries between us and God are very important. They
are not to do away with the fundamental oneness or unity that
we have with him (John 17:20–23), but they are to define the
two parties in unity. There is no unity without distinct identities,
and boundaries define the distinct identities involved.
We need to know these boundaries between us and him.
Boundaries help us to be the best we can be—in God’s image.
They let us see God as he really is. They enable us to negotiate
life, fulfilling our responsibilities and requirements. If we are
trying to do his work for him, we will fail. If we are wishing for
him to do our work for us, he will refuse. But if we do our work,
and God does his, we will find strength in a real relationship
with our Creator.
Boundaries and God