Connect If our lives are to be “for the praise of God’s glory”, what is one area (e.g., relationships, work, time, money, use of technology) in which that purpose could become more visible?
Warm-Up
- What communities or groups do you belong to? What do you have in common with the people there?
Read Ephesians 2:11-12
- Who are Gentiles - both generally and specifically in this letter?
- Why were Gentiles considered outsiders? Are we in the same position - why or why not?
- Why does Paul encourage them to remember they are Gentiles?
- What benefit is there for us in remembering where we were before Christ?
- How should remembering where we came from inform who we are to welcome and treat others in Christian community?
Read Ephesians 2:13-18
- Who brings us near? How can that be both liberating and challenging?
- In bringing us near, what does Jesus create in himself?
- How does Jesus do this? How does it underline the significance of the hostility between us and God?
- How have you seen Christians identify themselves apart from others (e.g., we are Christians who …)? What is the real identity of the church, created in Jesus?
- How should being made into one new humanity change your relationships in Christian community and on your frontlines?
- Why should unity in the church be an important consequence of Christ’s death for us?
Read Ephesians 2:19-22
- What is the new status we now have in Christ? What do the images of being citizens, members of God’s household, and a temple represent?
- Do you ever underestimate the significance of belonging to God’s family? What helps remind you of the reality we are joined together in Christ?
- When have you seen God at work through his family? Share an example.
- What is a cornerstone? Why does it matter that Jesus is the cornerstone of community?
- How are you currently committed to a local church? What would you like this to look like this year?
Apply This year - how will you be committed to the people Jesus has joined you together with (i.e., the church)?
