There is a short introduction available for the book of Ephesians. You can read it here.
Spiritual Blessings in Christ - Ephesians 1:1-14
Understand It
- How was Paul made an apostle? (1:1)
- To whom was the letter addressed? (1:1)
- What greetings did Paul extend to the believers at Ephesus? (1:2)
- How has God blessed believers? (1:3)
- When did God’s work of election take place? (1:4)
- What is the purpose of God’s election? (1:4)
- What did God determine beforehand for those who believe in Christ? (1:5)
- What is the goal of God’s election? (1:6)
- What is redemption? (1:7)
- What does the work of Christ do for the believer? (1:7)
- What has God given the believer? (1:8-10)
- When will everything be brought together? (1:10)
- How did God’s plan include people of different cultures? (1:11-12)
- What is the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of those called to receive spiritual blessings in Christ? (1:13-14)
Apply It
- How can you say thank you to God this week for what He has done for you?
- What do you need to do differently to live for the praise of God’s glory this week?
- In the days ahead, how can you share with other people those blessings God has given you?
Thanksgiving and Prayer - Ephesians 1:15-23
Understand It
- What motivated Paul to pray for the Ephesians? (1:15-16)
- What did Paul ask God to give to the Ephesian Christians? (1:17)
- What is the purpose of having wisdom and revelation? (1:17)
- Why did Paul ask that the Ephesians’ hearts would continue to be enlightened? (1:18)
- What kind of help is available to all Christians? (1:19-20)
- How is God’s power at work in all creation? (1:21)
- How does God’s power reach across time? (1:21)
- What did God place under Christ’s control? (1:22)
- What appointment did God give Christ? (1:22)
- What is the church’s relationship to Christ? (1:22-23)
Apply It
- Since God’s power is available to you, what do you need to do to take hold of it this week?
- What people in need could you remember in your prayers this week?
