STUDY GUIDE

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Rethink Church: The Ephesians Study

Originally Published by: Pine Hills Church

Fort Wayne, Indiana

Originally Written by: Pastor Mike Drury, Nirup Alphonse, Dave Martin, Rusty McMakin,

Colleen Senestrano, Michael Wiley, Nicolle Gershon, Lillian Drury, Bre Haglund

© Pine Hills Church www.pinehillschurch.com

This Version Published by: SonLight Community Church

Angola, Indiana

This Version Adapted/Modified by: Pastor Jason Rains

© SonLight Community Church

www.sonlightcommunity.com

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EPHESIANS: Introduction GREETING We are embarking on an exciting adventure with this message series titled “rethink church: The Ephesians Study”. Each message is going to be a progressive and powerful journey through the entire book of Ephesians. We will not be content to be a weekend, spectator church. We desire to be a united body, bonded together by our pursuit of Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit. This series will help us understand that we are not called to come or go to church...we are called to be the church. One way that we plan to unite our people is with this take-home study guide of the book of Ephesians. We have created this for you to work through at home during each week of the series. Each week there will be a study guide with thoughts, questions, and biblical insights that compliment that week’s message and more importantly, the section of Ephesians we focused on during the message. It’s function is simple, yet important...to encourage thought and discussion outside the walls of the church building. Discuss these topics with your family, with a group of people, get on our facebook page, do whatever you need to do to carry this message outside the walls of this church building. Then we can come together on Sunday prepared to worship and dig deeper into what it means to truly be the church God has called us to be. I’d like to invite you on this journey with us. Will it be easy, no! But I do believe that it will breathe life and create momentum for our individual lives and the life of SonLight Community Church. We will get to know more of Christ, who He is...what He has to offer those who follow Him, His intention for the church, and the role He intends for us to play in order to make the church all that it is intended to be! Will you join us on this journey as we ‘rethink church’? OVERVIEW Of all the churches Paul planted along his journeys, the church of Ephesus is one that he shared a close, intimate relationship with. Paul first visited this city on his way to Jerusalem. This led to a promise that he would return (Acts 18:19-21). He kept that promise and on his third and final journey spent three year in the city (Acts 20:31). While there, Paul preached in the synagogue, rented a lecture hall to continue his teaching, did extraordinary miracles, and won many individuals to Christ (Acts 19:9-12). The culture of Ephesus was literally turned upside down and experienced a major paradigm shift. This led to a city-wide uproar that forced the mayor to disperse the angry mob before a riot broke out over Paul’s teachings (acts 19:23-41). Paul was a controversial figure everywhere he went, and Ephesus was no exception. Keep in mind that the author of this letter is Paul...the same guy who had his Jesus encounter on the road to Damascus while he was traveling to persecute Christ-followers. At that time he was known as Saul of Tarsus, and made a career out of killing and persecuting Christ-followers. He had his Jesus encounter, became a Christ-follower, had his name changed to Paul, was called to take the Gospel to the Gentiles, and never looked back. Can you imagine the controversy that followed this man? I mean...think about it, how would you respond if Osama Bin Laden had a Jesus encounter of his own and began preaching the Gospel around the world? What if he came to SonLight to talk about his story? How would you respond? This is the controversy that surrounded Paul’s entire ministry.

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RECIPIENTS While Ephesians is a deep and rich theological book written to an ancient church, it is important that we see it as more than just that. It is a letter inspired by the Holy Spirit, written from a caring leader to men and women whom he deeply loved. While this book is called Ephesians and the letter is addressed to ‘the saints in Ephesus’, most biblical scholars believe this is a circular letter addressed to many churches in the province of Asia Minor. Ephesus would naturally be the ‘home base’ as it was the largest city in the province and was the place where spent the longest time ministering. A circular letter is one that would have a global presentation, meaning that it contains truths communicated for all churches, including ours! Ephesians also has an intimate feel; which is most certainly due to Paul’s personal relationship with the Ephesians. Because of these two aspects this book has had an appeal to believers throughout the church age. PURPOSE Paul wrote the book of Ephesians to encourage and strengthen believers. He thoroughly explains the nature and purpose of the church and the body of Christ. Paul took a vested interest in the churches that he established (one of which was Ephesians). As a leader there was a keen sense of communicating clear doctrine and practical application. Ephesians is laid out in the following order: the first three chapters present the doctrine of the church, while the final three chapters show the duty of those who make up the church to live and love as Christ would. One writer has described Ephesians in this way… The Epistle to the Ephesians can be considered Paul’s treatise on the Universal Church, the body of Christ. Thus, unencumbered with local problems, his description soars high above any mundane affairs and takes us into heaven where we are presented with a heavenly view of the church as it fits into God’s eternal plan. -Life Application Concise New Testament Commentary- CONCLUSION So how does a letter written by a dead man to an ancient church apply to us today? Remembering that the Word of God is alive and active (Hebrews 4:12) the reader (that’s you) must come prepared to have their view of church expanded far beyond the grasp of your current reality. Ephesians portrays a heavenly view of the church and this study will deepen your understanding of the bride of Christ. With a heavenly view of the church established, Paul brings us back down to earth by discussing how the individuals who make up the church (that’s us) should live, love, and interact with one another. This series will get in your face and challenge you...in a good and much needed way. Paul never pulled any punches when it came to speaking authoritatively about how we should live, and the book of Ephesians is no exception to that. Your commitment to developing Godly relationships will be challenged, cultivating a growing and mature faith will be emphasized, and living as a group of people unite to be the church will be commanded. Basically...this letter written by a dead man to an ancient church will force us to ‘rethink church’.

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WRAP UP 1. Describe in your own words...the church? 2. Why do we refer to the church as the Bride of Christ? 3. How does someone become a part of the church? Do you consider yourself a part? Why/Why not? 4. Does being a part of the church affect the way you live? Why/Why not?

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Ephesians: THE CITY As you begin to journey through the book of Ephesians, it is clear that the words Paul chose are so rich in depth and understanding. Paul wrote this letter choosing specific words to speak to his audience, that only they would know or relate to. In order for you to get a full scope of the book of Ephesians it is vitally important that you understand the history and importance of the city of Ephesus. The city of Ephesus is located on the west coast of what is now modern-day Turkey. At the height of the Roman Empire it functioned as the capital city for the Empire’s Asian Provinces. Many historians and theologians credit that it was the second largest city of its day. Located at the Cayster River, on the east side of the Aegan Sea, Ephesus was vitally important to the Roman Empire as it carried more than significant financial and cultural weight. As with large cosmopolitan cities today, its philosophies and trends influenced all of Asia Minor. In short, the city of Ephesus was a city of business and commerce, with vast implications in all areas of culture including but not limited to: politics, education, fashion, art, religion, philosophy, family dynamics, social climates, ethics, ideas and trends. Think of it as the New York City or Los Angeles of its day. Ephesus was the crown jewel of Asia Minor, with a population of nearly 250,000 people and was home to more than twenty pagan temples. The Ephesians enjoyed luxuries such as running water, indoor toilets, fountains, gardens surrounded by magnificent courtyards, roads paved with marble, gymnasiums, libraries, and a theater that could seat approximately 25,000 people. Ephesus was the center for heathen and pagan worship in its day. Home to the main temple of Artemis (Diana), an ancient fertility goddess, it was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, and was the ’headquarters’ for her worshippers around the world. It was considered so powerful that people from all over the world deposited and borrowed money from the temple. It was a driving force of the economy. In addition to the temple of Artemis, the city was also home to a temple to the Roman emperor Domitian (81-96 AD) that held a 27 foot-tall statue that could be seen upon entry into the city from any direction. There is a pivotal scene in Ephesus which captures the true conflict between the Kingdom of God and the pagan cultures and systems of the city. The message of the Gospel had a clear and direct effect on the priorities of those who heard and believed. It became clear that eternal truth was more important than economic well being. Paul’s message was so strong and convincing that the people of Ephesus stopped spending their money and their time as they normally did. A major area of commerce in the city was the sale of temple models and idols. A prominent business man named Demetrius led a riot, dragging two of Paul’s friends into the city theatre filled to its maximum capacity (25,000 people). He along with many others were more than upset that this new found faith system was destroying their way of life, and they had every intention of killing Paul’s friends. The riot would have gotten out of hand and ended in the execution of Paul’s friends had the city clerk not stepped in. He ruled that no crime had been committed, but make no mistake, his concern was not for the two men, but rather not to cause any problems for the city in the eyes of the Roman Empire. He understood the magnitude of the city within the Empire.

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The Gospel was so powerful that it threatened the established order of a powerful and influential city. Don’t forget...when one Kingdom comes in the other has to go out. The Gospel was impacting the commerce, politics, religion, social relationships, academics, and the arts. It was challenging the way of life for everyone in the city of Ephesus. As you begin to see the importance of the city of Ephesus, I hope you see a picture of the POWER that comes from truly hearing and believing the truth of Jesus Christ! Paul understood that the church was the hope for the entire world. The church is not called to merely exist within the culture, but she is called to define the culture and influence culture in a way that leads people to Christ. Imagine what would happen if a major, influential city in the US were to be transformed by the Gospel. WRAP UP 1. How would you describe the culture you live in? What would happen if it were changed by the Gospel? 2. How does that culture impact you? 3. How can YOU impact your culture? 5. Who or what would you try to influence first? Why?

QUICK HITTER Paul made two separate trips to the city of Ephesus, one on his second missionary journey and one on his third and final missionary journey. The following readings show what we

know about those visits. In the verses below you can read how the Church in Ephesus first began and grew with the leadership of Paul.

Acts 18: 18-21 Acts 18:24-28 Acts 19: 1-41

Acts 20: 16:38

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Ephsians: Spiritual BlessinGs

RECAP In this first section of Ephesians Paul dives straight into establishing the foundation of his letter. Who is God, What has He done? And Why should we be excited about Him? What do we get out of being a follower of Jesus? This is a great introduction to the letter that establishes a Godly view of the church and the people who make it up. You have been chosen by God the Father, Redeemed by God the Son (Jesus), and sealed by the Holy Spirit. Isn’t it amazing to see the mystery of the trinity (God the Father, God the Son, the Holy Spirit) working uniquely and independently, but united in your salvation! SPIRITUAL BENEFITS OF BEING A CHILD OF GOD

REDEMPTION: The price has been paid. Your life has been purchased with the blood of Christ! You are no longer have to pay the penalty for your sin, which is death.

FREEDOM: Now that you have been redeemed, you are free! Galatians 5:1 says that it was for free-dom that Christ died to set us free! Stop living shackled by your past. Lay it down at the foot of the cross and live in your freedom found IN CHRIST!

THE HOLY SPIRIT: When we are adopted by God we become His family. We belong to Him! We are given the gift of the Holy Spirit which leads us to an intimate relationship with God the Father.

PRACTICAL BENEFITS OF BEING A CHILD OF GOD

SECURITY & CONFIDENCE: As life hands you various situations and you struggle to discover who you are...there is a security and confidence in knowing that all that really matters is not WHO you are, but WHOSE you are. Do you embrace this security and confidence? Or are you still insecure in whose you are?

LOVE: This is a practical benefit that should drive us...LOVE GOD & LOVE PEOPLE. Because we have been adopted and loved by our great God, shouldn't we be even more motivated BY that love in re-sponse? What are some practical ways you can love God and love people?

WHOLENESS: This is benefit that ONLY is found IN CHRIST. The sad reality is that we try to fix our-selves all the time...we try to make ourselves whole, but we always come up short. We are whole IN CHRIST! God asks us to be obedient, and the end result isn’t just wholeness, but holiness.

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Ephesians 1: 1-14 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus: 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption to son-ship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace 8 that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, 9 he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10 to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.

11 In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, 12 in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. 13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.

IN CHRIST 1. List at least 6 blessings that we have IN CHRIST. 2. Who was chosen before the creation of the world? 3. How many times does Paul use the phrase ‘in Him’ or ‘in Christ’? 4. What does it mean to be sealed by the Holy Spirit? 5. What does it mean to be redeemed? 6. If you are chosen, redeemed, and sealed...does your life reflect

that? Why/Why Not? 7. When you realize the blessings found in Christ, does it impact your

outlook on life? 8. This section touches on The Holy Trinity (God in 3 Persons).

Describe each person of The Holy Trinity and their role in our life/salvation.

GOD (THE FATHER): JESUS (THE SON): THE HOLY SPIRIT: 9. Write one sentence that describes your thoughts when you hear

that you were adopted by God. 10. Prayer: Write a list of the blessings in your life, and spend some

time thanking God for who He is, what He’s done, and tell Him how excited you are about being adopted. If you haven’t been adopted, maybe it’s time…

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EPHESIANS: The Prayer RECAP

Paul was a praying leader. He regularly prayed for individuals as well as church he had helped

establish. The church at Ephesus was no exception. Paul wanted them to know that he was

praying for them...so he told them...on a regular basis!

I find it interesting that Paul did not pray for their personal well -being. He did not pray for

their material gain or monetary wealth. His prayer wasn’t even for good health or long life.

His prayer was that the Ephesians would know God more intimately. We continue to see this

recurring theme of an eternal perspective running throughout his letter.

After praying that his reader’s hearts would have eyes to see Christ, he pinpoints some distinct

requests. He wanted the Ephesians to know three things: their hope, their inheritance, and

the power in Christ.

The hope Paul was referring to was that of the calling of Christ on their lives. He wanted them

(and us) to have a deeper appreciation for the call of God on their lives.

The inheritance was literally the saints themselves. Imagine that, you are actually an

inheritance of God. Paul stressed that we are a glorious inheritance!

The final part of the prayer was for power! Paul wanted them to know exactly what type of

power he was talking about so he equated the same power that brought Christ back from the

dead to the power that was living in them through Christ! It’s safe to say that the same power

lives in me and CAN live in you today through the Holy Spirit in our lives! What a tremendous

thought!

Take a moment to consider the following thoughts and their application to your life:

When did Christ call you? What were the circumstances that led you to give your life to

Him? If you haven’t yet...what’s holding you back?

The thought of an inheritance is an exciting one. On in this case, you are the inheritance.

What does that mean? That you are God’s inheritance.

Power. The same power that brought Jesus back from the dead is alive in you! In what

ways have you seen the Holy Spirit’s power at work in your life?

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Ephesians 1:15-23 15 For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.

THE PRAYER 1. Why did Paul give thanks to the people of Ephesus? 2. List the things that Paul prayed they would receive. 3. Who raised Christ from the dead? Read John 10:17-18. 4. What position of honor does Christ now hold? 5. What does it mean to be the head of the church? 6. In your words, what does it mean for the church to be the

body of Christ? 7. How can we (SonLight) live this out more effectively? What

is your role? 8. What do you pray for? Do you pray for your church? Do you

pray for your Pastor/Leaders? What specifically will you pray for this week? Write your prayer below.

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EPHESIANS: alive in Christ RECAP

There is a great song by the band P.O.D. titled “Alive” that talks about feeling alive. If I told

you to stop living as if you were dead, would you be offended, or would you start living your

life found IN CHRIST? Would you be disgusted by my challenge to you, or would you take it

seriously and realize that you can have life IN CHRIST that is beyond your wildest dreams?

God is constantly at work for us, in us, and through us. God loves us and will not stop shaping

and molding us into the image of His Son, Jesus. He has taken us who were dead in our sins

and called us to come alive to Him. YOU WERE DEAD. After being adopted by Christ, YOU ARE

ALIVE. What an amazing truth! We are now in Christ, but only because Christ is in us. Paul

reminded the Ephesians that this salvation was only by the grace of God.

As you consider what God has done by bringing you life, now would be a great time to take a

personal inventory. Which of these areas are you experiencing God in currently (God working

for you, in you, through you)?

Is sin working against you because you have not yet trust Christ as your personal Savior? Then

trust Him now! Seriously, right now! What are you waiting for? Have you experienced His

work for you, in you, through you? Sure...you have questions, so do I! But don’t let your that

become a wall between you and God.

Is your life reflecting grace or the grave? Are you enjoying the liberty you have IN CHRIST, or

are you still bound by the habits of the old life in the grip of sin? As a Christ -follower, you

have been raised and seated on the throne. Practice your position IN CHRIST. Honor that

position. Don’t you dare take that position for granted. You have no idea what God is

planning on doing for you, in you and through you.

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Ephesians 2: 1-10 1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 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.

ALIVE IN CHRIST 1. How were we made alive in Christ? 2. Who is the ’ruler of the kingdom of the air’? Who does he

work in? 3. How are we, ’by nature deserving of wrath’? What does that

mean? 4. How are we saved by grace? Does this mean works are not

in the process of salvation? 5. What is the ’gift of God’, we read of in verse 8? 6. Why is our salvation not based on our works? 7. How are we God’s ’handiwork’? What does verse 10 mean

to you? Does it impact your lifestyle? 8. Why have you been created? What were you created IN

CHRIST to do? (quite possibly your Chazown)

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EPHESIANS: One In Christ RECAP

Diversity within the church is a beautiful thing. Division within the church is an ugly thing, and

quite frankly unacceptable. When a church is diverse it is prepared to meet the needs of the

culture and community she exists within. When a church is divided it becomes full of strife,

infighting, pride, and is completely inadequate for meeting any needs.

The church at Ephesus had diversity; it consisted of both Jews and Gentiles. While there were

no recorded factions, the truth that Jews and Gentiles were worshipping together provided op-

portunity for division. So in this passage, Paul makes it clear that within the body of Christ

there is neither Jew nor Gentile, there is only one body...the body of Christ!

In times past, the Jews had been God’s chosen people and the Gentiles were considered for-

eigners or aliens (even Paul used these words in verse 19). With the coming of Jesus Christ

and his death, burial and resurrection, the division and distinction between Jew and Gentile

was erased. Paul stated it this way, “For he himself is our peace, who have made the two one

and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility…” Now through Christ, any person,

regardless of race or ethnicity, could come to God the Father and enter into a right relation-

ship with Him. Paul even said in verse 18, “For through him (Christ) we both (Jews & Gentiles)

have access to the Father by one Spirit.”

While this truth was monumental during Paul’s time, today it’s relevance appears insignificant.

Let’s make a modern day application. Division in today’s church can come in the form of race,

gender, age, economic status, and even stylistic preferences. However, by applying the under-

lying truth of Ephesians 2:11-22 we come to understand that in the body of Christ there is to

be absolutely no division...we are simply ONE body with ONE head...CHRIST! Men are not es-

teemed above women, the rich are not superior to the poor, the young are not elevated above

the old, and all races are equal. A healthy church should have a diverse (there’s that word

again) population of ages, gender, economic status, and race (where applicable).

What that means is that the things that separate us aren’t nearly as powerful as the ONE thing

that unites us...CHRIST! Are you committed to making SonLight a church that is ONE

body...with ONE head...CHRIST?

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Ephesians 2: 11-22

11 Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)— 12 remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, 15 by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, 16 and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. 17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. 19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

one IN CHRIST 1. What was the state of the Gentiles before Christ came? 2. What does the phrase ‘you who once were far away’ mean? 3. In verse 14, what do you think this ‘dividing wall of hostility’

is? 4. What did Christ abolish? How? 5. Through Christ, who do we have access to? 6. Why are we no longer foreigners and strangers? 7. What does it mean that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone? 8. How have you seen a church united make an impact? 9. How have you seen a church divided tear each other apart? 10. What is your role in making the church ONE body?

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EPHESIANS: Mystery revealed RECAP

Everyone loves a good mystery. Let’s consider for a moment what makes a successful mystery,

whether it’s in book form, movie form, or in real life...what makes a good mystery? First you

have a plot; it develops over the course of time, but the important aspects are revealed

progressively so as not to spill the beans too early. There is also uncertainty and at times even

suspense centered around where the storyline is headed. While it appears we may know the

direction it’s headed, it is still...well, a mystery! The climax takes place at ‘the reveal’. This is

where all the pieces come together and the mystery is now exposed. You are left to evaluate

your assumptions as to whether the mystery wound up at the point that you first believed it

would. If don't right, you are left ‘blown away’ by the ending and thinking it never would have

gone there. That’s a good mystery. Do you agree?

In Ephesians 3:1-13 Paul speaks about a mystery that was designed and orchestrated by God.

He tells us that it was God’s plan to reveal to him this mystery in its fullest form so that he

could then share his insight into the mystery. What was it? The simple truth that…”through

the gospel the Gentiles and heirs together with Israel, members together of one body and

sharers together in the promise of Christ Jesus.”

In the Old Testament we see God creating a people (through Abraham) to be His chosen

people to walk in a covenant relationship with Him. This was/is the Jewish race. What Paul

tells us however, is that behind the scenes God was working a greater purpose to be finally

fulfilled through his Son Jesus Christ. This is where the mystery comes in. Prior to the life,

death, burial and resurrection of Christ, there were two distinct groups of people -Jews and

Gentiles. They were separated by a vast chasm and Gentiles could only enter into a right

relationship with God by becoming converts to the Jewish religion. The mystery however, is

revealed through Christ; there is no longer a chasm, the two are now made one in a new

body...the church! Every person who comes to God through Christ is accepted just as they are

whether Jew or Gentile, make or female, young or old, rich or poor. They are accepted not on

the basis of who they are, but rather for who Jesus is and what He did for them. Through

Christ everyone now has the same access to God, it is through his Son Jesus Christ who is

called the head of the church (Ephesians 1: 10, 22).

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Ephesians 3: 1-13

1 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—2 Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me for you, 3 that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. 4 In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. 6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus. 7 I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. 8 Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. 10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11 according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. 13 I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

Mystery Revealed 1. Why would Paul call himself ‘the prisoner of Christ Jesus’? 2. What is ‘the administration of God’s grace? 3. What is the mystery that is discussed in verse 3? 4. Who had been kept in the dark concerning this mystery?

Why? 5. How was this mystery revealed? 6. What did the grace of God allow Paul to do? 7. What was God’s intent for the church in verse 10-12?

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EPHESIANS: A beautiful prayer RECAP

Consider this scenario; you are blindfolded by a trusted friend and hand in hand you begin

walking. The warmth of the sun is on your face, and below your feet you can feel the steadi-

ness of the rocky terrain. The wind is calmly brushing past you, drawing in all the scents of a

new spring, and in the background the sound of a thunderous river is making a melody undeni-

able to your ears. All your senses are heightened and fully aware that where you are is won-

drous-except for your eyes, as they have yet to see the place your experiencing. You finally

reach your destination, and before your blindfold is removed, your friend asks you to take

both of your hands and form them into a tunnel to peer through one eye while you keep the

other eye closed. Willingly you oblige. As you peer through your hands, you can see only a

few things. It is evident that you are standing at a high point but you are by no means over-

whelmed by the sight.

The view is still somewhat impressive, and it leaves you in one of two camps. The first camp is

that of satisfaction; you are satisfied with your view and do not see the benefit in looking for

anything more. You would be okay with your limited perspective and be satisfied. The second

is a different scenario-Perhaps this small view would leave you wanting more. There is some-

thing inside of you that tells you there is more to see, and you desperately want to witness it

first hand. Regardless of your feeling, you stand there sincerely contemplating...But...what if

for a moment you decided to open your hands.

Now you are truly amazed. Captivated by the magnitude and the beauty, you are speechless

because you now begin to recognize that your limited perspective was not worth rejoicing

over. Your heart is now seeing what it was designed to see, and rather than just managing

your limited view, the immensity of the splendor that surrounds draws you in to more than a

few seconds of satisfaction.

When we actively recognize God and His creation all around us, we allow God to open our eyes

to His constant presence. Whether it be in nature or the circumstances that seem to engulf

us...He is everywhere and is waiting for us to recognize His beauty. If we were honest; most of

our time as Christians is spent managing our sin and trying to control its consequences on our

lives as opposed to submitting ourselves to fall before the cross and living to glorify God. To

fall before the cross means to live in completely surrender and submit ourselves to the will of

God, which is in essence, allowing the Holy Spirit to control us. It is a discipline that is not

easily learned, but has eternal rewards that have no equal. For these reasons...Paul prayers

for the Ephesian believers and for us because of the great truths and realities that he lays out

for us in the letter.

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Ephesians 3: 14-21

14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 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, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

A Beautiful Prayer 1. What is your response to this prayer? 2. How does the love of Christ surpass knowledge? 3. Through what does Christ dwell in your heart? 4. Read verses 20-21...write 5 words that come to mind. 5. How does God do immeasurably more than all we ask or

imagine? 6. Is this reflected in your prayer life? 7. How does God receive glory in the church and in Christ Jesus

throughout all generations? What are your thoughts?

20

EPHESIANS: Worthy of the call RECAP

Every minor league baseball player has a dream to one day get the call. The amazing moment

when their lifelong pursuit of playing major league baseball is answered and they are told,

“You’re going to the big leagues...aka The Show”!

There are a slew of responsibilities that come with the call; dress, walk, talk, and performance

are just a few. There is a reason they have been called and the owners who are paying their

massive salaries have some serious expectations of how each player must respond to their call.

If for some reason a player fails to live up to the expectations of the call, he can quickly find

himself right back where he started, because he wasn’t worthy of the call. It happens all the

time in baseball. Baseball players are expected to walk worthy of the calling of the Major

Leagues.

In Ephesians 4:1 the Apostle Paul speaks of a similar calling, only this one is much more grand

than playing in the big leagues. His reference is to those who have been called by the Father

to be part of the body of Christ. In the three previous chapters Paul went to great lengths to

provide a heavenly perspective of the church and what it means to be a member of the church.

This calling comes at the choosing of the Father and was obtained at such a high price (the

very body and blood of Christ) that it demands a life lived worthy of the call itself.

So here it is...the question. Are you living a life worthy of the calling you have received? The

pursuit of a worthy lifestyle is the responsibility of every person who claims to be part of the

body of Christ. It involves humility, gentleness, patience, long -suffering, and a vigilant effort

of maintaining the unity of the Spirit. It is interesting to note that the unity already exists, our

responsibility is to make an effort to keep its unity in tact. How is this accomplished?

Through the bond of peace. This will require putting up with other Christ -followers, not with

bitterness or resignation, but in true Christian love.

Paul goes on to say that as a help to the church in these matters, God has given gifts to assist.

These gifts are in the form of people. Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers

are made available to the church so that the individuals within the church can be equipped in

order that they may serve each other. As people serve each other (and in doing so live worthy

of their calling) the church itself is built up, both numerically and spiritually. As this continues

to transpire Paul concludes the thought by stating the individuals and the church as a whole

grow up into its head, Jesus Christ. Simply stated...we mature in our faith as we live our life

worthy of the call.

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Ephesians 4: 1-16

1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.” 9 (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? 10 He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) 11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Worthy of the call 1. How would you define living a life worthy of the calling? 2. What does it mean to be ‘completely humble and gentle’? 3. How do you keep the unity of the Spirit? 4. What did Christ himself give the church to equip his people? 5. What is the goal? (v. 13) 6. Verse 14 compares us to infants? What does this mean? 7. What is the result of every part of the body of Christ doing its

part?

22

EPHESIANS: Mastering Maturity RECAP

In Ephesians 4:1 Paul challenges us to ‘live a life worthy of the calling you have received”. I

believe an integral part of being worthy to this calling is to master maturity.

In verses 17-32, Paul discusses a model to being spiritually mature. In verses 17 -19, he lays

down a foundation for us to realize what “Gentile”, or non -believer, thinking and living actu-

ally looks like. He follows that up in verses 20 -25 by proposing a challenge to believers to put

off their old self, be made new in our attitudes, and to put on our new self. Finally, in verses

26-32, Paul gives us a picture of what our new self should look like by giving us concrete exam-

ples of what not to do, what we should do instead, and why we should do it.

It is vital to our maturity as Christ -followers to understand this three-step process to master-

ing maturity; put off, be made new, and put on the new.

We are challenged to put off our old self, meaning walk away from the things we used to do,

the things that used to drag us down. In Galatians we are told that Christ died to set us free,

yet so many of us choose to still live handcuffed to the very things that Christ died to set us

free from!

Next we are challenged to be made new in our attitude. I’m a big believer that our minds and

thinking play a big role in our actions. It would do us absolutely no good to just take off our

old self, and put on our new self if we weren't made new somewhere in between. We might

look different, we might even act different, but at the end of the day you are still your old self

because your attitude (your spirit) has not been made new.

Finally, we are challenged to put on our new self. There is such a freeing and joyous experi-

ence. To know that you have walked away from the things that have held you back for so long,

to know that you have allowed the Spirit to renew your attitude, and to finally be able to put

on that new self that is simply amazing. In chapters 1 -3 of Ephesians we read about who we

are “IN CHRIST”, and we are called here in verse 24 to put on who we are IN CHRIST!

It is very important for us to understand what Paul is saying to us through these verses. It

could be easily misunderstood that we are just called to be good, moral people, and not live

like the Gentiles. However, that is not what we are called to. There are many ‘good people’

that do the right things, say the right things, even walk the right walk, but at the end of the

day they are not “in Christ”. My true belief is this...you can be as good as possible, but if you

don’t put off the old, allow the Spirit to renew you, and put on the new you, you are nothing

more than a good person who is still lost and going to hell. Where are you at?

23

Ephesians 4: 17-32

17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed. 20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. 25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. 29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Mastering Maturity 1. What does ‘live as the Gentiles do’ mean to you? How does

it apply to your life today? 2. How does Paul describe the Gentile way of living? 3. How do we ‘put off’ the old? What does this look like for

you? 4. List the specific sins we are to ‘put off’. 5. List the characteristics of life we are to ‘put on’. 6. Is anger a sin? Explain. 7. How can you prevent giving the devil a foothold? 8. How should we forgive each other? Do you forgive this way?

24

EPHESIANS: the way of love RECAP

From birth, man learns new behaviors and attitudes through imitation of those he watches

most. This pattern continues throughout life. Not only do we learn how to speak, we learn

what to say in a given situation. Our mouths, our actions, how we deal with stressful situa-

tions, and how we treat folks from whom we profit nothing exhibits what is at the very root of

our being...our hearts.

At this point in life, whose life does yours resemble the most? Who do you imitate?

What behaviors/qualities of yours do you hope others imitate?

Could someone look at your life and learn about God?

Read Romans 12:1-2. In what ways does your daily living portray the way of love?

As we continue on, may we always work to become more Christ -like. May we be firm for truth

with compassion in all our dealings. May we remain strong against all wrongs. May our lives

reflect HIS light in each step. May we look far into the future of possibilities rather than focus

simply on the present hurts. May we develop a love that sacrifices everything for the

betterment of others.

If you were to truly start imitating Christ...how would your life change? How would it impact

your family? Your home? Your work? Your school? Your community? Your world?

25

Ephesians 5: 1-20

1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them. 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, right-eousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. 14 This is why it is said: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” 15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. In-stead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Mastering Maturity

1. How are we to follow God’s example? 2. What does it mean to walk in the way of love? 3. What great example of love does Paul offer us? 4. How were we once in darkness? 5. What does it mean to be children of the light? 6. Why should we make the most of every opportunity? 7. How can we understand what the Lord’s will is?

26

EPHESIANS: Husbands & Wives RECAP

Remembering that Paul has challenged his readers to walk worthy of the their calling to belong

to the body of Christ, he now speaks specifically to husbands and wives and their treatment of

each other within the covenant of marriage.

Verse 21 sets the stage by stating that individuals submit to one another out of reverence for

Christ. With an initial attitude of mutual submission, husbands and wives are now challenged

to respond to each other in various ways. For the wife, Paul states that she is to submit to her

husband. Paul is clear to set the parameters of this submission by stating that it is the same

way the church submits to Christ. This submission then is not a blind allegiance that would al-

low the man to ‘lord’ his own wants, wishes and desires over the woman. His role is to make it

as easy as possible for his wife to be willing to follow his spiritual leadership. He does this by

acting Christ-like...loving his wife, sacrificing for her and treating her better than he does his

own self. What woman wouldn’t willingly follow a man that treats her like that?

It is important to keep in mind that the wife is never called to submit to sin! Men have so mis-

used and abused this portion of Scripture and in essence made it appear to be a blank check of

submission where the wife must simply sign her name. This is a ‘pseudo -submission’, a fake

submission, and IS NOT BIBLICAL! The primary responsibility in this passage is for the man to

act, treat, respond and lead his wife (& family) just as Christ does the church. Hey

guys...before you even begin to think about your wife following your leadership; it’s time for a

spiritual gut check! How do you treat her? Are you making it easy for her to follow your lead-

ership or difficult? Would she say that you love her much the same way that Christ loves the

Church?

Paul makes it clear that Christ’s love for the church is SACRIFICIAL, SANCTIFYING, and SELF -

LESS. This is the type of love men are to lead their marriages with! However, many men lead

with a superficial, self-indulged, selfish love and then wonder why their wife has trouble fol-

lowing, submitting, and responding to them. Are you worth following, submitting, or respond-

ing to?

It’s important to note that some men are intentionally deferring their leadership to their

wives. This is also NOT Biblical! Christ does not defer his headship to his bride (the church).

He has embraced his role and is constant in his leading and loving. Men, we too must embrace

the role of ‘head’ of our family and pursue this leadership with a passion. As we grow in our

faith so too will our family. Guys, it’s time to ‘man up’ and starting living and loving our wives

the way we are commanded to...just like Christ!

27

Ephesians 5: 21-33

21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. 22 Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— 30 for we are members of his body. 31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” 32 This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Husbands and Wives 1. How are wives to submit to their husbands? What example

are we given? 2. What has Christ promised to be the Savior of? 3. How much are husbands to love their wives? What example

are we given? 4. How did Christ make holy and cleanse the church? What

does this mean? 5. What does a ‘radiant church’ look like to you? 6. What is a profound mystery in verse 32?

28

EPHESIANS: submit And Obey RECAP

In Joshua 1, God tells Joshua that He will be with him as He was with Moses. Those comforting

words were followed by the strangest, and probably hardest, military orders to follow in the

Bible. To militarily succeed, Joshua was told to order the armed men of Israel to march around

the city once a day for six days and on the seventh day march around seven times. Doing so,

Joshua was told, would make the wall of the city collapse. According to human logic and phys-

ics, those orders make absolutely no sense. No sense at all! Yet, the command was simple,

and in the end...the action and obedience showed trust and authority in God.

Additionally, we are asked to obey because in the Lord it is the right thing to do and asked so

that it may go well with us and result in enjoying a long life on earth. Our satisfaction in life

should be dependent upon God’s worth, and not our own, because we were created to reflect

God’s infinite worth. In Romans, we are told that we are trying to take the created things of

the world and subject them to us when in fact we should be worshipping the Creator. In life,

most of our disappointment is the result of us trying to do things we were not created to do.

The truth of the matter is we will never escape our need for God. And when our satisfaction is

dependent upon God’s worth we will begin to develop unexplainable joy. We must always

submit, we must always obey.

Lastly, in John 14:!5, Jesus says, “If you love me, you will obey what I command.” Specifically

in these passages, the goal of parenting is not to raise up morally good and complaint children

but ones whose hearts have been redeemed. That obedience should come out of a redeemed

heart and love of Jesus. And fathers play a huge role in this instruction and training. As the

spiritual leader in the home, it is their responsibility. Fathers are asked to model, reflect and

instruct children in the way of the Lord. This cannot be passed off to the church or a coach or

school or anyone else. The spiritual training and instruction of children is the responsibility of

the father.

29

Ephesians 6: 1-9 1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— 3 “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” 4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. 5 Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. 6 Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. 7 Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, 8 because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free. 9 And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.

Submit and Obey 1. Try to explain this phrase, “in the Lord”. Is this a reoccurring

theme in the letter thus far? 2. How do children honor their parents? What do they gain? 3. Why does it mean to exasperate your children? Why should

fathers not do it? 4. How are slaves to obey their masters? 5. What example are we given? 6. What obligation do masters have to their servants? 7. How does this apply to your life? 8. What motivation do masters have to treat their slaves

properly?

30

EPHESIANS: Armed and dangerous RECAP

As Paul concludes his letter to the Ephesians, he does so in powerful fashion. After having

spent 5 1/2 chapters describing the doctrine and the duty of a called, chosen, redeemed, and

sanctified member of the church; he finishes with the idea that we are at war; a spiritual war

that is raged against the evil forces of Satan. We have noted that throughout the second half

of the book, Paul has challenged his readers to have their conduct be worthy of their calling.

In this last section, his teaching is clear -our conduct includes conflict! As a soldier of Christ,

we must be ready to defend ourselves on a personal and spiritual level from the certain at-

tacks of our scheming enemy. We do this by using every piece of God’s armor that is available.

It’s interesting that Paul states twice that we are to “put on the full armor of God”. It is ap-

parent that the spiritual armor used for protection is readily available for the child of God to

use. However, it is our responsibility to cover ourselves completely with this armor. The full

armor literally means complete equipment , head to toe protection, both defensively and offen-

sively. For the Roman soldier, this gear was used for hand to hand combat (interesting to note

that Paul wrote this letter while chained to a Roman soldier. Perhaps the soldier’s armor

brought this metaphor to his mind). Paul states that the individual who clothes him or herself

with this armor will be able to stand against the repeated attacks of the evil one.

According to Paul, each element of armor is vital and serves a necessary part in our defense

and offense against the evil one. In verse 13, Paul states that we are to put on the full armor

of God so that when the day of evil comes, we will be able to stand against him. This speaks of

a certainty in regards to the attacks of Satan. There is no question if he will; it is simply a

matter of when. Paul also states that we need this armor to stand against the devil’s schemes.

The Greek word for scheme chosen here is very intentional; methodia refers to schemes,

strategies, wiles or tactics that the devil himself uses to make war and destroy believers. It is

obvious that the evil one has a plan to destroy your life, the question is will you let him or will

you put on your armor?

31

Ephesians 6: 10-24 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit , which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.

Armed And Dangerous 1. Why do we need to put on the armor of God? 2. List the 6 pieces of armor listed?

A B C D E F

3. How do we wrestle against the evil one? 4. How are we to put these pieces on? Why? 5. What request did Paul make of his Ephesian friends? 6. How was Paul an “ambassador in chains”? 7. Paul requests prayer that he may declare it fearlessly. What

is ‘it’? Are you declaring ‘it’ fearlessly?

32