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Ephesians 2:1-22 Study Guide

By September 19, 2021Small Group Study Guide

DISCUSSION GUIDE 9.19.21

Chapter 2 in a Nutshell

In chapter 2, Paul tells the Ephesian Christians: You were once spiritually alienated from God; but now, because of God’s grace, you have been spiritually united with him. As Gentiles, you were once spiritually alienated from Israel, but now you have been spiritually united with them into a living spiritual temple of God.[1] 

Group Discussion Questions:

  • As you reflect on the sermon this week, how did the Holy Spirit speak to your heart?
  • What do we learn about God from Ephesians Chapter 2?
  • Was there a verse/passage that jumped out to you? Share why the verse or passage struck you.
  • What personal implications did the sermon have for you?

Read and discuss verses 8-10. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

  • What is the gift Paul is referring to, is it faith or grace?
  • What is grace? How would you describe it to someone with no relationship with God?
  • What does verse 10 tell us about our purpose and what are the implications? What can we learn about the direction of our life?
  • Terry said, “Grace saves us and grace energizes us to active participation in the good he is doing in the world.” How is this a win/win scenario? Does it encourage/strengthen you? explain how.
  • “If you have accepted Gods gift, share with the group your saving experience when you let God’s grace in Christ bring you eternal salvation.

Read and discuss verses 1-10.

  • As you read the verses, what do we learn about God or the gospel?
  • What do we learn about ourselves? What is the difference between your life in Christ and your life before Christ? What does it mean to be dead in your transgressions and sin?
  • When it comes to our salvation, Terry used the term “already/not yet.” What did he mean by this term, and what are the implications for us?
  • How would you describe what the grace of God means for you in your own life?

Read and discuss verses 11-22.

  • What does it mean to be reconciled, and what is the means of our reconciliation with others?
  • How does our identity in Christ begin to heal all division in the church?
  • What does it mean to be God’s dwelling?
  • Where is hope and peace found in these verses?
  • Read verse 19-22. What are the implications for us personally? How does it encourage and strengthen you to live for God’s glory?

Conclusion/Application: What is the wind that blows in your life? What would it mean to lean into that wind so you can live with biblical balance?

Pray for River Ministry Partner:

Missions—The Amersheks are praising God for restored health for family and teammates after battling illnesses, a successful English sports camp, invitations from neighbors to join in important celebrations, and opportunities to share about Jesus and His role as the Good Shepherd!

Here are a few prayer requests:

  • Their team retreat just finished on Sunday, Sept. 19; prayers for continued team-building, refreshment in the Lord and united hearts as they serve together.
  • Two engineering interns are with them for through December. Pray they’ll gain greater access to villages in the valley through their work with Austin.
  • For local leaders to be strengthened and encouraged as they continue to serve.

 

[1] Anders, M. (1999). Galatians-Colossians (Vol. 8, p. 108). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

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