As a congregation we are encouraging personal Bible reading at home. Take October to read and live with Paul's letter to the Ephesians. Below are some things to ponder.
Chapter 1 (Week 1)
1. We've all heard the advice to, "count your blessings.? What are some of the blessings Paul rattles off in verses 1-14 that we have as Christians?
2. Herdsman, loggers and big business often brand or mark their products or goods as a sign of ownership. In baptism we are "branded" with the cross, and in verse 13 Paul says we are marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit and given a pledge of a great inheritance? Does it affect how you live now? Should it?
3. How many times are the words, "good pleasure" used to describe God? How does this opening section counter the notion that God is disinterested in us, or a "grumpy old man" out to get us?
Chapter 2 (Week 2)
1. How does it feel to know that you are saved not by your own works or your own doing? (see vs. 8-9)
2. Are we still to do good works and lead good and holy lives? Why?
3. Paul says that Jesus breaks down the walls that separate Christians. Has that been true for you? Why or why not?
Chapter 3 and 4 (Week 3)
1. Paul says his ministry is to the Gentiles and that he is a servant of the Gospel to bring them the Good News. What ministry has God given you? Do you try to reach others with the Good News?
2. If you do feel a passion toward a particular segment of the population and want to reach them with the Good News, where will you get the power to minister them (see vs. 7-9)? If you don't feel a passion to tell others, maybe you should talk to God and listen for a reply!
3. Paul seems to have a solid theology of the Church and holds it in high regard. What is the basis of this for Paul? How do you regard The Church?
4. (Chapter 4) Paul speaks about "calling" and "gifts" here. What is your calling, what are your gifts, how are you using them in The Church and for the world?
5. (Chapter 4) In 17-25 Paul speaks about the old life and the new life. What was your "old life" and what joys and struggles do you find in your new life?
Chapter 5 and 6 (Week 4)
1. In verses 3-14 Paul speaks about obscene and vulgar talk, light and darkness. In baptism we are commissioned to, "let the light of Christ shine before others so that they may see our good works AND glorify God." Is your light shining or is it under a bushel? Are you trying to find out what is pleasing to the Lord and are you living that way (v.10)?
2. Are you making the most of your time here on earth as a Christian and servant of the Lord? What would it take for you to be more if an "imitator of God" (v. 1 )?
3. What is the basis of husbands and wives submitting to each other? I submit that that is the key and secret to a happy and successful marriage...but probably not many do it!
4. (Chapter 6) What is the basis for parents and children to build a trusting and loving relationship?
5 (Chapter 6) What role do you dad's take in bringing up your children in the Lord and instructing them in the teachings of Jesus and in the discipline (routine) of The Church?
Have you put on the armor of God? Can you discover what the only "offensive" weapon is? (see verse 17b)