As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins.

Ephesians 2:1

As for you. Who are the “you?” Paul is writing to all the believers in the vicinity of Ephesus in Asia Minor, Jews and non-Jews alike.  He knows these people very well, having ministered among them for three years!  He knew how hard it is for Jews and Gentiles to live together in love.  So, he lays the groundwork, they were both dead in transgressions and sins.  That is, Jews and non-Jews. The Jews may have debated that but not Paul – without the saving power of God in Christ it matters little what you believe, as far as new life in Christ is concerned.

We all start there, sinners.  Our culture, race, education, social class carry not a bit of weight when it comes to salvation.  We are all brought to the lowest level, sinners needing salvation!

So we all flee to the only place of salvation, to Jesus Christ who died and rose for us.

At first this looks easy.  It is so hard that without the mighty grace of God it is impossible!  It is only possible if the same Holy Spirit is in each.