Grace at Home Study Guide

United in One: Ephesians 2:11-13

In this sermon, Pastor emphasizes the importance of unity in Christ, highlighting our shared identity as believers, regardless of our backgrounds. He illustrates this concept by referencing the Ephesians passage that reminds Gentiles of their former state of separation from God's promise and hope, yet now brought near through Christ's sacrifice. The message underscores that all believers, Jew and Gentile alike, are united in one body, eliminating divisions and promoting love and mercy. Ultimately, Pastor calls for a deep acknowledgment of our unity and collective purpose in the church as a reflection of God's grace.

Rewatch the Sermon

Questions

 
1. What does it mean to be 'united in one' as believers, and how does this principle relate to the way the church functions today?
Context: Pastor talked about how being united in Christ unites us to each other as members of one body, emphasizing the importance of unity in the church.
Application Question: In your own life, how can you promote unity among your friend group or in GCCSB as a whole?

2. Why do you think it's important for Paul to remind the Gentiles of their former condition before coming to Christ?
Context: In the sermon, Pastor pointed out that Paul encouraged the Gentiles to remember they were 'far off' from God's promises and had no hope before accepting Christ.
Application Question: How can reflecting on your own past sinfulness and God's grace shape your interactions with others today?

3. How does the concept of being 'strangers to the covenants of promise' help us understand the significance of salvation through Christ?
Context: Pastor explained that before Christ, the Gentiles were strangers to God's promises, but now they are included through faith in Jesus.
Application Question: Can you identify a time when you felt left out or excluded? How does that experience influence your view on inclusion in the church? How do you seek to reconcile and build godly relationships?

4. What are the five key things Pastor listed that Gentiles were without before accepting Christ, and why are these significant to our understanding of grace?
Context: Pastor highlighted that before Christ, Gentiles had no _______, no _________, no _________, no _______, and no _______, stressing our dependence on God's grace for salvation.
Application Question: How does acknowledging these realities inform your gratitude towards God for your salvation?

5. In light of the sermon, how can you avoid becoming self-centered thus fracturing unity within the body of Christ?
Context: Pastor mentioned that sometimes church members can act as barriers instead of inviting others in, referencing how self-righteous or self-centered attitudes can alienate others.
Application Question: What practical steps can you take to ensure you're cultivating a heart posture of humility and love in your interactions with others?

Prayer Prompts

Ask God to help you apply the teachings of Ephesians in a practical way this week. 
• Pray for opportunities to serve and love selflessly, reflecting the love of Christ. 
•  Ask God to reveal any areas of hypocrisy in your walk. 
• Pray for a disciplined prayer life and regular meditation, allowing God to guide and shape our hearts.