Ephesians.
Week #2
Knowing our inheritance in Christ.
Go through Ephesians 1 and list how many things make up our inheritance.
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the richness of God’s grace...
Ephesians 1:7
What does it mean to have redemption? What are the riches of God’s grace?
‘...He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfilment – to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ.’ ‘Having believed you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption...’
Ephesians 1:8-10,13-14
Why does Paul use the word “lavished” and what does he say God has given us?
Why do you think it is important that we know the mystery of his will?
Why is the Holy Spirit described as a deposit and what might that mean for us?
‘I pray also 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 the saints...’
Ephesians 1:18
What does it mean to have the eyes of your heart enlightened?
How might this impact how you know something? Are there different types of knowing?
‘And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.’
Ephesians 2:6
Why is it so important that we don’t neglect or forget about the authority and power that we have through and in Jesus Christ?
What authority and power has he given us and how could we use it?
Closing Reflections.
Is there anything you will take away from this study and discussion?
What has stood out that you can take into your week ahead?
Pray together (in pairs or small groups) for each other, in response to your answers.