Ephesians Bible Study Week 1

Steps to Walk through for Bible Study

Who is the author

Who is the audience

What is the purpose of the book

What is the meaning for the original audience

What is the application for today

Read Ephesians 1:1-2

Who is the author?

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s Will

Apostle- One who was taught/lead by Jesus

Follow of Christ Jesus

Not by His desire/calling, but by God’s Will

Former persecutor of the church which practically illustrates God’s grace

Apostle/missionary to the Gentiles

Potentially written while Paul was imprisoned in Rome approximately 61- 62 AD.

Who is the Audience?

to the faithful saints in Christ Jesus at Ephesus.

Letter was also passed to many other churches, particularly among communities just outside Ephesus

What is the purpose of the Book?

Perhaps to Preach God’s power over authorities, power, and spiritual forces

Intense spiritual warfare in Ephesus.

Ephesus is known for paganism

Culture steeped in materialism, sensuality, superstition, and idolatrous practices

Ephesus was also home to the Roman emperor cult.

Instruction and Leadership for the early church

Both Jewish and Gentile believers coming together

Due to the number of new believers, persecution forcing Christian Jewish out of Jerusalem.

Read Revelation 2:1-7

-What was the complaint levied against the church in Ephesus?

4. What is the meaning to the original audience?

Read Ephesians 1:3-14

-Essentially what is Paul doing as he opens his letter? (Worship)

-What word or phrases point to this idea in verses 3-14?

Examine Ephesians 1:3-6 (Chosen by the Father)

-What does it mean to be Chosen?

-What other times does the Bible address people being chosen?

-Genesis 12:1-3- Abraham

-Deut. 7:6-8; Isaiah 42:6-8- Israel

-John 15:16- Twelve Disciples

-1 Cor. 1:28-29- Insignificant and despised

-What are the two things that happen through God’s election/chosing us? (Holiness, adoption)

-What does it mean to be Holy?

-What do you gain through adoption and for what purpose?

-For God’s Glory: Vertical connection to God as father, but also horizontal connection to brothers and sisters in Christ.

Examine Ephesians 1:7-10 (Redeemed by the Son)

-In verses 7-8, what do believers receive through the son? (forgiveness, Grace, wisdom and insight)

-What is the purpose of this wisdom and insight? (Revelation) vv. 9-10

Examine Ephesians 1:11-14 (Assured by the Spirit)

-What work of the spirit is displayed in verses 11-14 and what is the importance of each

-Sealing

-Guarentee

-What is the significance of the closing phrase “to the praise of His glory?”

5. What is the application for today?

Personal Reflection:

What does this passage have to say about worship? How does it move you to praise God?

2. Why should we reflect deeply on the doctrine of adoption? What practical benefit might a deep understanding of this doctrine have?

3. How would you explain to a non-Christian what Christ did to accomplish your redemption?

4. How does knowing that God works all things according to the council of His will affect you? Why is it important to reflect on this truth?