Compare Paul’s earlier prayer request, Ephesians 1:16-19, with his plea for believers in Ephesians 3:14-19. In what ways are the two requests similar? Behind the English translations of Ephesians 3:14-15, is an important play on words. When Paul says that he bows before “the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named” (ESV), he is exploring … Continue reading –>
What does Paul say about God and the actions of God in Ephesians 3:7-13? Paul again lays claim to being a “minister” through “the gift of God’s grace” (Ephesians 3:7, ESV; compare Ephesians 3:1-2). This gift, like the gospel itself, is not granted because of the worth of the recipient, but through God’s grace. Paul underlines this point by … Continue reading –>
What is the mystery that has been entrusted to Paul? Ephesians 3:1-6. As you study Ephesians 3:1-6, note the following: First, Paul writes this part of the letter specifically to Gentile believers in the house churches of Ephesus (Ephesians 3:1). Second, Paul claims to be the recipient of something he labels “the stewardship of God’s grace,” given to him … Continue reading –>
Read Ephesians 3:1-21. As you do so, identify one or two main themes. What major points does Paul make? Ephesians chapter 3 displays an interesting structure. Paul begins the chapter with these words: “For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles” (Ephesians 3:1, NKJV). Then, he breaks off for what turns … Continue reading –>
Sabbath Afternoon Read for This Week’s Study: Ephesians 3:1-21; Job 11:5-9; Ezekiel 43:13-16; Amos 7:7-8; Revelation 11:1-2. Memory Text: “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and … Continue reading –>
Safe in Jesus: Part 2 By Andrew McChesney One afternoon, 16-year-old Almira decided to take a nap after returning home from school, exhausted from months of fitful nights. She lay down on a couch, her face to the open door of the room. She was at home alone. Suddenly, she sensed the presence in the … Continue reading –>
Further Thought: Study carefully the following preamble to the discussion questions listed below: What is the specific context in which Paul writes Ephesians 2:11-22 as he describes the sweeping effects of the Cross on human relationships? He is addressing the relationships between Jewish and Gentile believers who together are members of the church. He expresses an obvious … Continue reading –>
What culminating set of images does Paul use in Ephesians 2:11-22 to signal unity between Jews and Gentiles in the church? Reviewing Ephesians 2:1-22, we recall that verses 1-10 teach that we live in solidarity with Jesus, while verses 11-22 teach that we live in solidarity with others as part of His church. Jesus’ death has both vertical … Continue reading –>
How does Paul summarize the ministry of Christ in Ephesians 2:17-18? The concept of peace is important in Ephesians, with the letter beginning and ending with blessings of peace “from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 1:2, NKJV; compare Ephesians 6:23). Earlier in Ephesians 2:11-22, Paul argued that Christ personifies peace, “For He Himself is our peace,” … Continue reading –>
What action does Paul say Christ took toward “the law of commandments expressed in ordinances” (ESV)? Why did He take this action? (See Ephesians 2:14-15.) Paul probably alludes here to the balustrade or fence that surrounded the court of Israel in Herod’s Temple, with its death threat. Paul imagines this wall coming down and Gentiles being granted full … Continue reading –>
