Rooted: Identity, Family, and Purpose in Christ week 2

Knowing the Power that’s Already at Work

Ephesians 1:15–23

Icebreaker

Who has influenced your faith the most, and how did they help you grow?

This connects naturally to Paul’s prayer for the church.

1. A Prayer That Shapes Faith (vv. 15–16)

Ephesians 1:15–16 NASB95

15 For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints, 16 do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers;

Observation

Paul isn’t correcting problems—he’s encouraging healthy believers.

Faith in Jesus produces love for people.

Discussion

Why do you think Paul still prays for people who are already doing well spiritually?

What does it look like when faith and love get separated in real life?

As parents, singles, or leaders—how can gratitude shape the way we pray for others?

Application

Who is someone in your life or church you should thank God for this week?

2. Knowing God, Not Just Knowing About God (v. 17)

Ephesians 1:17 NASB95

17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.

Key Insight

Paul prays for spiritual insight, not more information.

Christianity is relational, not just intellectual.

Discussion

What’s the difference between knowing facts about God and truly knowing Him?

How do busyness, stress, or parenting fatigue affect our spiritual attentiveness?

Where do you most need wisdom right now—family, work, finances, relationships?

Application

What would change this week if you prayed for wisdom instead of just for solutions?

3. Three Things God Wants Us to Know (vv. 18–19)

Ephesians 1:18–19 NASB95

18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might

A. The Hope of His Calling

Not just heaven someday—but purpose today.

Discussion

How does remembering God’s calling change how you see your current season of life?

What hope do young families and single parents especially need to hear?

B. The Riches of His Glorious Inheritance

God doesn’t just give an inheritance—He calls us His inheritance.

Discussion

How does it change your view of yourself to know God values you deeply?

What lies about worth or failure do people in our culture believe?

C. The Greatness of His Power

This power is already at work in believers, not waiting to be activated.

Discussion

Where do you feel weak, overwhelmed, or “outmatched” right now?

Why do we often live as if God’s power is unavailable or insufficient?

4. Resurrection Power in Real Life (vv. 20–23)

Ephesians 1:20–23 NASB95

20 which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, 23 which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.

Truths to Highlight

Jesus reigns above every authority—spiritual, political, cultural.

The church is His body—Jesus chooses to work through imperfect people.

Discussion

What “powers” today seem intimidating or overwhelming?

How does knowing Jesus is head of the church bring comfort or challenge?

What responsibility do we carry as Christ’s body in our community?

Application

Where might God want to use you—not just pastors or leaders—to show His power?

Closing Reflection & Prayer (5 minutes)

Group Prayer Prompt

Pray for:

Open eyes (clarity, discernment)

Renewed hope

Confidence in God’s power at work in everyday life

Optional Take-Home Challenge

Each day this week, pray Paul’s prayer (vv. 17–19) for:

Yourself

Your spouse or kids

One person in your group or church