Verse 17. And came and preached peace. That is, the system of religion which he proclaimed was adapted to produce peace with God. This he preached personally to those who "were nigh," that is, the Jews; to those who were "afar off" -- the Gentiles -- he preached it by his apostles. He was the Author of the system which proclaimed salvation to both. The word peace here refers to reconciliation with God.

To you which were afar off, etc. See Barnes "Eph 2:13".

{*} "preached" "proclaimed" {a} "which were afar off" Ac 2:39