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In this week’s Church at Home, we’re looking at Paul’s letter to the church in Ephesus—a diverse group of Jews and non-Jews from various ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. The Ephesians didn’t have much in common, yet Paul is very clear that in the family of God, all are equal recipients of God’s grace through Jesus.Societies have always categorized people into different hierarchies of value, but Jesus came to create a new humanity that is unified across all dividing lines. What does it mean to be a new unified humanity in a culture where followers of Jesus can be found on both sides of many controversial issues? How can our allegiance to Jesus compel us to have patient and meaningful dialogue with those whose views differ from our own?
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EPHESIANS
MESSAGE FROM TIM
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Watch: Ephesians
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Video Question
What stood out to you most in the video and why?
Ephesians 1:9-10 Read here
Ephesians 2:11-22 Read here
Ephesians 4:1-5:2 Read hereIn Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he speaks to Jews and non-Jews, two groups that were divided by so many factors it would have taken an act of God to unite them. In the first three chapters, Paul teaches about the great measures God took in order to make these two groups into one new humanity in Jesus. Then in the last three chapters, Paul shows them how Jesus’ unifying work should impact every relationship and aspect of their lives.
  • Reread Ephesians 1:9-10 and 2:11-22 and note all the words that communicate unity (both, all, together, etc...).
  • What are two groups in your community that disagree with one another about a current issue?
  • Growth in Jesus requires speaking the truth in love (see Ephesians 4:15). Think about the two groups that came to mind in the question above. What happens in these groups when truth is not spoken in love or when love is spoken without truth?
  • Consider the needs of the person or group that has opposite views from you. What truthful and loving words do you think would most benefit them today? Think about Ephesians 4:29.
  • Take note of the dangers of dealing with anger inappropriately (see Ephesians 4:25-31). How do you think fractured communication can make us vulnerable to the devil’s work and grieve the Holy Spirit?
  • Reflect on Jesus’ example of sacrificial love (see Ephesians 4:32-5:1-2). Who needs your forgiveness today? Take time to pray for them.