becoming a people of grace: an exposition of ephesians j i bpg becoming a... · the heart of the...

The Heart of the MatterIn Paul’s collected letters, he spent a great deal of time fighting off various troubles in the churches — false teaching, dissension, legalism, and immoral lifestyles. However, when he wrote to the church at Ephesus, he avoided all that. Instead, Paul offered a view of what Christ did for us and why. His letter provides us with a higher perspective — a new vision of our purpose and calling as the body of Christ and how we are to live it out. It blends some of the loftiest theology in Scripture with some of the most practical teaching. And it shows us the deeper reality of God’s all-encompassing rule and how our daily, seemingly mundane lives contribute to the accomplishment of His glorious plan.

Discovering the Way1. The World in Which the Letter Was WrittenPaul wrote this letter while under house arrest in Rome, addressing it to a city rife with the worship of false gods.

2. Our Relationship with God and with One Another (Ephesians 1:3 – 9; 4:1 – 3)The book of Ephesians divides nicely into two sections, the first detailing our position in Christ, and the second detailing what we have been called to do.

Starting Your JourneyThe letter to the Ephesians offers us a reminder, a relief, and a reassurance.

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Paul: A Man of Grace and Grit

by Charles R. Swindollhardcover book

The Grace Awakening Devotional

A Thirty-Day Walk in the Freedom of Graceby Charles R. Swindoll

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Becoming a People of Grace

An Online Course on the Book of Ephesians

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Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansEphesians: A Life-Changing Letter

An Overview Of ephesiAnsij

The Heart of the MatterThe books of Scripture certainly stand among the relatively few works worthy of being absorbed into our minds and hearts. They lie on a separate, distinct plane above all others. Not only are they wholly accurate and infallible, but they also come from the very mouth of God — they contain His words, not just those of the human authors who penned them. As such, God designed the Scriptures to nourish us and to penetrate every cell of our souls. He wants the words to fill us and become part of our deepest being. The book of Ephesians is no exception.

Discovering the Way1. The Basics of the Letter (Ephesians 1:1 – 2)In these early verses, Paul identified himself and his recipients and offered a special greeting to his fellow believers.

2. What God Has Done for Us (Ephesians 1:3 – 14)As Paul praised God, our attention should focus on how God has worked on our behalf.

Starting Your JourneyGod’s work in us results in Him being glorified through our salvation.











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Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansUnloading the Theological Truck

EphEsians 1:1 – 14ij

The Heart of the MatterComplaints and grumbling come so much more easily to us than praise and thanksgiving — this in spite of the fact that God has lavished us with His goodness and mercy. His ultimate act of love is His plan to save us from our sins. God has consistently acted on our behalf to bring us to Himself and, ultimately, to “seal” us — to make our salvation sure. In a world that seeks to undermine our confidence in the unseen, God assures those who believe in His Son that they will be forgiven and saved to spend eternal life with Him. For this, He deserves our praise!

Discovering the Way1. A Doxology of PraiseThis passage of praise is structured around the triune God — Father, Son, and Spirit.

2. Ten Reasons to Praise God (Ephesians 1:3 – 14)From choosing to redeeming, from forgiving to sealing, God has done so much for His people. Our response? Praise Him.

Starting Your JourneyThe reasons we praise God all begin with Him, so He gets all the glory. And because the reasons all center on Christ, they all depend on His death.











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Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansTen Reasons to Give God Praise


The Heart of the MatterPraying is usually one of the last disciplines we master. Have you found that true in your life? God’s people can share their faith with others, open God’s Word to read and study it with delight, and even stand up to teach or offer devotional thoughts on a passage from its pages. But praying is another animal, isn’t it? Devoting ourselves to prayer in private can seem boring and unhelpful because it may not yield tangible and immediate results. However, if we pray in faith — like we really mean it — the benefits, tangible or not, will be more than apparent.

Discovering the Way1. Paul Praised God for the Ephesians (Ephesians 1:15 – 16)Paul thanked God for the Ephesians’ loyalty to Christ and for their love for others.

2. Paul’s Petitions for the Ephesians (Ephesians 1:17 – 19)Paul asked God to grant the Ephesians a greater knowledge of Christ and that their hearts might be enlightened.

Starting Your JourneyCommit to praying regularly for knowledge and enlightenment that God might work through you in a more powerful way.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansPraying Like We Mean It

EphEsians 1:15 – 19











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The Heart of the MatterMany Christians live every day disconnected not only from one another but also from God. This can lead to dysfunction in every area of life. However, when we accept Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, we gain access to a source of power beyond our comprehension. The might that carved the Grand Canyon, that showered the earth with dazzling oceans, and that rolled the stone away from the tomb is at our disposal. This power stands ready to enable us to overcome temptation. It’s available when depression overtakes us or when life’s troubles overwhelm us. But if we don’t connect to it, we’re only as good as a waterless sprinkler or a darkened lamp.

Discovering the Way1. The Availability of God’s Power (Ephesians 1:18 – 19)Paul prayed that the Ephesian believers would receive the power of God.

2. The Demonstration of God’s Power (Ephesians 1:20 – 23)Paul taught that God demonstrates His power by raising Christ from the dead, seating Christ at His right hand, putting all things in subjection under Christ’s feet, and placing Him as head over all things in the church.

Starting Your JourneyStaying connected to God’s power means recognizing the positive changes He has wrought in us and accepting our weaknesses to more fully depend upon Him.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansWhat Is Christ Doing Now . . . and Why?












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The Heart of the MatterContrasts dot the landscape of Scripture. Light and dark. Heaven and hell. Love and hate. Faith and works. Freedom and bondage. Life and death. Between every one of these contrasts, God alone makes the difference. Between love and hate stands God. Between heaven and hell stands God. Likewise, were it not for what God has done for us in Christ, death would be all we had to look forward to, while life eternal with Him remained a distant dream. Because of God’s work on our behalf, Christians now have the hope of redemption by grace through faith.

Discovering the Way1. A Study in ContrastsThe Bible is filled with contrasts, none more significant than God’s merciful choice to bring believers from death to life.

2. From Death to Life: Five Questions (Ephesians 2:1 – 10)Answering these five significant questions allows us to see clearly God’s action on our behalf: What was life like? What did God do? Why would God ever do that? How can this be? What difference does this make?

Starting Your JourneyDon’t be fooled into thinking that those without hope in Christ have found lasting fulfillment. Instead, remember that lasting relief only comes by grace through faith.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansYou Were Dead . . . But God!












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The Heart of the MatterLike a bell, God’s grace rings through the pages of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, and nowhere louder than where Paul taught that we have been saved from our sins and trespasses by grace through faith. This salvation comes to us as a gift, lest we come to believe we can earn our way to eternal life with God through our works. However, that’s not to suggest that good works are unimportant. On the contrary! They stand as a testimony to the saving work God has already done in our lives.

Discovering the Way1. Salvation Is All by Grace (Ephesians 2:8)God provides salvation to us at His initiative, freely offering faith through the sacrifice of His Son.

2. Salvation Is All a Gift (Ephesians 2:9)Because salvation is a gift from God, our works give us no reason to boast in our treasured status as one of God’s children.

3. Salvation Leads to Good Works (Ephesians 2:10)We are not saved by good works. Rather, we are saved for good works.

Starting Your JourneyGod offers us the free gift of salvation through His Son. It only remains for us to receive the gift and walk according to the salvation we have received.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansGod’s Artwork on Display












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The Heart of the MatterThe book of Ephesians makes clear that we were once dead in our sins, but that God has made us alive through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. Instead of living our lives without Christ and without hope, the sacrifice of Jesus has brought peace between God and people by breaking down the barrier between us. In this, He has also reconciled Jews and Gentiles, building us into one body who can worship God together in His Son and by His Spirit.

Discovering the Way1. Where We Were (Ephesians 2:11 – 12)Five terms describe life prior to receiving Christ: Christless, stateless, friendless, hopeless, and Godless.

2. What Difference Christ Made (Ephesians 2:13 – 14)Christ has brought peace between people and God as well as Jew and Gentile by breaking down the dividing wall between us.

3. Why We’re Grateful (Ephesians 2:15 – 16)We are grateful because Christ’s work has reconciled us to God and to all people who believe in Him.

Starting Your JourneyTwo questions should remain in your mind as you think about this passage: First, do you really believe what you read here? And second, do you really live it out?

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansBreaking Down the Barrier












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The Heart of the MatterJesus Christ has reconciled us to God through the perfect and willing sacrifice of His life — what a glorious truth! Yet our acceptance of God’s gift of salvation and our reconciliation with Him merely inaugurates our relationship. Our newfound faith promises to change us in profound ways, not only in our character but also in the way we relate both to God and to His people. Because Christ brought peace, we now have access to God through Him, joining other believers as part of His family on earth.

Discovering the Way1. Christ Brought Peace (Ephesians 2:17)Jesus Christ has built a bridge of peace between God and humanity.

2. Four Common Features in God’s Household (Ephesians 2:18 – 22)All members of God’s church have four things in common that characterize and unite believers: access, citizenship, family, and dwelling.

Starting Your JourneyAs members of God’s household, we need to ask ourselves three questions about the reconciliation He provides in Christ: Do you believe it? Have you received it? And finally, are you living like it?

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansGod’s Household












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The Heart of the MatterSometimes it’s easy to get discouraged when life dishes out more than our share of troubles. But Paul, who was put in chains for faithfully preaching the gospel wherever he went, could rejoice and rest contentedly in God. He knew that all things that come to us first pass through the hands of God, a fact that gave him great comfort and allowed him to go on preaching the union of the Jews and the Gentiles in Christ. Paul’s example and his message provide reason for us to feel secure in God’s hands, that we might not suffer discouragement before Him.

Discovering the Way1. The Revelation of the Mystery (Ephesians 3:2 – 6)God revealed the newfound unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ.

2. The Declaration of the Mystery (Ephesians 3:7 – 10)God chose Paul to declare this message, that the mystery might be known throughout the heavens and the earth.

Starting Your JourneyBecause we have been united with God and made one with His followers, we need to remember three truths that will encourage us. First, the message of the church has eternal roots in God. Second, those roots give us a secure relationship with God. And third, that relationship guards us from discouragement before God.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansThe Mystery, the Ministry, and Me












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The Heart of the MatterWhat do you do when you lose heart? When the wind goes out of your sails and your morale drops to a new low? When life has weighed you down once again and those times of encouragement and joy seem no more than a distant memory? Paul, sitting in a Roman prison and yet filled with the joy of the Lord, was concerned about the Ephesian believers falling into discouragement over his fate. He wanted none of that! So he prayed to God on their behalf that they would be filled with the love of Christ and the strength of His Spirit.

Discovering the Way1. Paul Prayed to the Father (Ephesians 3:14 – 15)Paul’s prayer took place on his knees, indicating his submission to the authority and power of God.

2. Paul’s Petitions for the Ephesians (Ephesians 3:16 – 19)Paul addressed four areas — physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual — in his prayer that the Ephesians might not lose heart.

3. Paul Praised the Father (Ephesians 3:20 – 21)Paul recognized the great power of God that works for us and in us, bringing glory to Himself.

Starting Your JourneyIf you struggle with discouragement, then claim God’s strength, remember that you’re loved, and seek His fullness.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansPaul on His Knees . . . Again












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The Heart of the MatterMany of Paul’s letters begin with doctrinal truths, instructing readers in basic Christian beliefs. Then, after the reader has a clearer understanding of faith in Christ, the second half of the letter deals explicitly with how to live out the Christian faith in the world. The two sections are often joined by a single verse. These “hinge” verses can be clearly seen in Romans (12:1), Galatians (5:1), and Colossians (3:1). The same is true for Ephesians, where in 4:1 we see the beginning of a highly practical section, one that teaches believers how to apply the great truths of God’s sovereignty and salvation in day-to-day life.

Discovering the Way1. How to Walk in Unity (Ephesians 4:1 – 3)Paul described four character qualities that we must possess and pursue to walk in unity with others: humility, gentleness, patience, and tolerance.

2. Why We Walk in Unity (Ephesians 4:4 – 6)Paul used the term “one” seven times in this passage to describe certain beliefs and practices that should unite believers.

Starting Your JourneyIf we mean to actually live in unity and not just talk about it, we must commit ourselves to walking together with other believers, even in the midst of the disagreements that inevitably arise.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansA Worthy Walk

EphEsians 4:1 – 6











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The Heart of the MatterMany of God’s people live like simple sheep rambling across the land — grazing here and there, eking out an existence, and hoping that one day we will be transported to a better life, from a life on earth to one in heaven. Too often, though, we don’t realize or remember to drink from that great pool of resources available to us. We need to remember that God’s power in the resurrection also works in us, and we need only access His power through the gifts He gives us by His Spirit.

Discovering the Way1. What Christ Did for Us (Ephesians 4:7 – 10)Christ gave us His grace, He defeated His enemies, and He gave gifts to His people.

2. The Gifts Christ Gives Us (Ephesians 4:11)This passage lists four particular gifts that God has given to His people: apostleship, prophecy, evangelism, and pastoring-teaching.

Starting Your JourneyWe have all been gifted by God, and our best possible contribution to the church is to exercise that gift.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansHis Gift and Our Gifts












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The Heart of the MatterIn recent decades, many churches have taken on a corporate mentality that suggests everything should be slick, efficient, and planned for the greatest profit or expansion. We have begun to lose a sense of family or “body life,” where each of the members is an integral and related part with all the others. This has left churches increasingly disconnected and diseased. We need an infusion of healthy thinking that will bring us together, so that many individuals can work together as one for our common purpose of bringing glory to God.

Discovering the Way1. God Gifts Us to Equip the Saints (Ephesians 4:11 – 12)Through faithful instruction from the Scriptures, God’s people will be equipped for the work of the faith.

2. God Gifts Us to Serve (Ephesians 4:13 – 15)As believers serve the church with their unique gifts, the body of Christ stays healthy and unified.

3. God Gifts Us to Build the Church (Ephesians 4:16)The ultimate result of spiritual gifts is the strengthening and maturity of Christ’s body.

Starting Your JourneyWe must each commit to using our gifts and benefiting from the gifts of others, so that we might grow to better emulate Christ both individually and as a church.










A Thirty-Day Walk in the Freedom of Grace





Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansBody Life at Its Best

EphEsians 4:12 –16ij

The Heart of the MatterImage is everything — or so the saying goes. We live in a world consumed with how things look rather than what they are. Often, the same is true of ourselves, when we worry about our appearance to others rather than our hearts, which guide our thoughts and deeds. Paul was aware of this tendency in people, so he encouraged the Ephesian believers to throw off the old self — the one stuck in darkness, callousness, impurity, and greed — and put on the new self — the one characterized by holiness and righteousness. Only in this way will we begin to look like Christ’s followers, inside and out.

Discovering the Way1. The Old Wardrobe (Ephesians 4:17 – 19)Before we believed in Christ, we walked in the old self, with darkened minds and calloused hearts, leading to sensuality and impurity.

2. The New Wardrobe (Ephesians 4:20 – 24)Believers, on the other hand, have learned the truth about Jesus Christ, so we are to put on the new self of righteousness and holiness.

Starting Your JourneyIf we want to change our wardrobe, we must realize that the old self is corrupt and the new self is Christlike, and we need to present ourselves daily to God for His service.















Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansHere’s How to Get Dressed


The Heart of the MatterSometimes we sin in ignorance — we didn’t know it was wrong at the time — and when we discover the error of our ways, we feel terrible and quickly seek God’s forgiveness. More often, though, we sin knowing full well the significance of our actions. But because we have done it for so long, we have no plans to stop, even though it hurts us and those we love. Old habits are so hard to break, and often we have no desire to break them either. However, God’s saving grace provides us freedom, and in the power of His indwelling Spirit, we can break those old habits and devote ourselves to Him.

Discovering the Way1. The Result of a Renewed MindWith a renewed mind, we also receive freedom, that we might now have the opportunity to pursue a life in God.

2. Living Free (Ephesians 4:25 – 32)Paul listed five particular areas of sin that those in the new self must avoid: lying, uncontrolled anger, stealing, unwholesome speech, and an absence of forgiveness.

Starting Your JourneyThe freedom that comes to us through God’s grace allows us to throw off the sin that so easily entangles us.















Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansSteps That Lead to Freedom


The Heart of the MatterBelief and behavior always go hand in hand — in that order. What we do is always based on what we believe . . . about God, about ourselves, about others. However, some will suggest that what we do is not as important as what we believe. Others will suggest that belief is not as important as action. But belief without deeds is hypocrisy, while action without beliefs ends in confusion. After discussing right belief in the first half of the book, Paul shifted his focus to action, calling Christians to pure living.

Discovering the Way1. A Living Picture of Love (Ephesians 5:1 – 2)We are to model our lives after God as revealed in Christ, offering ourselves to God that we might be used by Him.

2. Strong Words against Love’s Enemies (Ephesians 5:3 – 7)Many temptations and sins sit along our paths, endangering the purity of our love and our lives, so we must avoid those who would lead us astray.

Starting Your JourneyWe are not to take part in the sins of the sexually immoral and the filthy talkers; instead, we should show a clear distinction between our behavior and theirs.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansA Stirring Summons to Purity

EphEsians 5:1 – 7















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The Heart of the MatterThe apostle John wrote of the true Light that enlightens every person and through whom the world was made ( John 1:9 – 10). Later in the book, Jesus identified Himself as the light ( John 9:5), something God did throughout the Old Testament (Psalm 104:2). Christ is the light of God made tangible for His people to see and to follow. Paul discussed this idea in his letter to the Ephesians, calling believers “Light” and telling us to “walk as children of Light” (Ephesians 5:8). In other words, Paul wanted us to imitate God by imitating God’s Son, a point Paul elaborated further in this passage.

Discovering the Way1. Light in ScriptureGod’s first spoken words in the Bible involve the creation of light. He then identified Himself with light throughout the Scriptures.

2. Reflectors of Light (Ephesians 5:6 – 14)Because we have been brought out of darkness and into the light, we are to avoid the ways of darkness and reflect the light that Christ has brought into the world.

Starting Your JourneyIf we are to live out the Christian life faithfully, we need to wake up to the reality of the world, embrace Christ, and live life for Him — allowing Him to shine through us day after day.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansThis Little Light: Is It Really Mine?
















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The Heart of the MatterAt various points in our lives, when mundane, day-after-day events wear down our defenses or when trials and tribulations of all kinds knock us around, getting back to the basics can help. When we stumble over many obstacles or when we’ve lost our clarity to a settling fog, we can stop and steady ourselves with those things that are absolutely foundational. Paul knew that, and in the midst of describing the life and deeds of a Christian, he offered five foundational actions that bring us back to the basics of what it means to follow Christ.

Discovering the Way1. The Basics of the Christian LifeApplying ourselves to the basics of Christianity will yield positive results in our lives.

2. Five Fundamentals (Ephesians 5:15 – 21)We can identify five areas that define the fundamentals of the Christian life: conduct, time, decision-making, control, and submission.

Starting Your JourneyWe need to evaluate ourselves in each of these five areas and be encouraged to pursue Christ through them with commitment and passion.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansThe Christian Life 101
















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The Heart of the MatterAncient maps made before the earth had been circumnavigated often portrayed the unexplored areas with fire-breathing dragons. These scaly, frightening figures served to represent the fears of the people, as if to say, “Here be dragons.” In our current cultural climate, one in which egalitarianism is valued above all else, Ephesians 5:22 – 6:9 presents unfamiliar, often unexplored territory in the oceans of marriage. It is to such concepts as authority, submission, and daily self-sacrifice that we come, cautiously and thoughtfully, knowing that “here be dragons.”

Discovering the Way1. The Broader Context (Ephesians 5:21)When coming to this marriage and family passage from Ephesians, we must keep in mind that all of the relationships should be considered in light of our mutual submission to one another.

2. A Word to Wives (Ephesians 5:22 – 24)Wives have been called to honor the Lord by submitting to their husbands. This command does not change that women and men are of equal worth to God, though their roles are different.

Starting Your JourneyIn order to live out these biblical guidelines, we must allow the Scriptures to guide our thinking above all else — beginning with our thinking about God and what He has done for us.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansThe Most Challenging of All Relationships (Part One)
















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The Heart of the MatterHave you ever noticed that the valuable things of this world take time to accomplish? Often, the more valuable they are, the more time they take to maintain and to appreciate. Marriage is one of the most valuable relationships God has given us. But in our fast-paced society, people seem less and less likely to give marriage the time it needs to grow and mature into something beautiful and holy. Instead, we give up on the pattern God instituted, looking for quick fixes and easy outs. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians reminds us that there is a better way.

Discovering the Way1. Love Your Wife as Christ Loves (Ephesians 5:25 – 27)We should adopt four characteristics of love that Christ emulated for us in His life: sacrifice, sanctify, forgive, and honor.

2. Love Your Wife as Yourself (Ephesians 5:28 – 33)To love our wives as ourselves, we must be willing to nourish and cherish them in all things.

Starting Your JourneyGood marriages cannot be cultivated in a hurry. They take both parties working with equal commitment and effort, and they take on sacred depths when lived well.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansThe Most Challenging of All Relationships (Part Two)
















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The Heart of the MatterWhen people hear the word parenthood, in rush all kinds of thoughts and feelings — some positive and some negative. One may remember the joy of having a faithful dad or the comfort that comes with a diligent mom. Another may remember the horrors of an abusive father or the loneliness created by an absent mother. However, the Scriptures hold out hope to every parent who is listening: no matter what kind of home you came from, it is not too late to start doing right in that all-important parent-child relationship.

Discovering the Way1. A Helpful Backdrop (Proverbs 22:6)The Bible calls parents to be sensitive to each individual child’s needs and bents, directing and guiding him or her in a way that’s appropriate for the child.

2. Instruction for Children and Parents (Ephesians 6:1 – 4)The Scriptures call children to obey and honor their parents, while parents should nurture their children through discipline and instruction.

Starting Your JourneyNurturing our kids comes when we help them to know who they are and when we as parents take our time with them.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansSecrets of a Nurturing Home

provErbs 22:6; EphEsians 6:1 – 4















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The Heart of the MatterToo often we divide the realm of the sacred from that of the secular. We seem to believe that certain subjects are more worthy, more special, and more godly than others. For instance, we sometimes believe that it’s the pastors or missionaries of the world who are doing the truly significant work, while our daily nine-to-five stints in the cubicle don’t make a lick of difference. That is simply not true! We have each been called by God to our work — vocational ministry or not — and therefore each of us plays a significant role in God’s kingdom simply by fulfilling that calling. Let’s take a look at what the book of Ephesians has to say about your place in the workplace.

Discovering the Way1. The Submission of Employees (Ephesians 6:5 – 8)Paul addressed four areas that employees should focus on as we make ourselves subject to our employers: response, motive, perspective, motivation.

2. The Submission of Employers (Ephesians 6:9)Likewise, the Bible calls employers to treat their employees in the same way, testifying to an underlying dignity for all people.

Starting Your JourneyA distinction does not exist for how we should live between the sacred and the secular realm. It’s all God’s, so whether we are employees or employers, we must commit to live for Him.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansHonoring God in Our Occupations

EphEsians 6:5 – 9















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The Heart of the MatterWhen we entered into the Christian life, we didn’t step onto a playground; we walked into a battleground. We may not have heard the bombs bursting in the distance or seen the flash of the bayonets right in front of us, but we have most certainly been in harm’s way. Satan’s schemes are many, and while we don’t often speak of them, we must always be on the alert to protect ourselves against them. Thankfully, God has graciously given us the means to defend ourselves against the attacks of the Evil One, a topic Paul raised near the end of his letter to the Ephesians.

Discovering the Way1. Our Strength Is in the Lord (Ephesians 6:10)The strength for the battle comes not from within ourselves but from God who gives us the power to resist.

2. Our Protection Is in the Lord’s Armor (Ephesians 6:11)Recognizing the threat against His people, God has provided us armor that we might stand firm amidst the attacks of Satan.

3. Our Strategy Responds to Satanic Methods (Ephesians 6:12 – 13)While Satan is alive and well, we can take comfort in four particular limits to his destructive work. First, no satanic assault is stronger than the Lord God. Second, no satanic scheme can penetrate the armor of God. Third, no satanic mafia can defeat the work of God. Finally, no satanic evil can withstand the prayers of God’s people.

Starting Your JourneyWe live in a world where Satan regularly marshals attacks against believers; therefore, we must support one another through regular prayer.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansStanding Firm against Satanic Schemes
















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The Heart of the MatterWhen we come to a passage such as Ephesians 6:13 – 20, our tendency is to think that we need to be strong in ourselves, that we need to get ourselves in shape for the battle. Wrong. We are actually mere sheep — we can’t fight, we don’t run very fast, and we don’t come across as very menacing to our enemies. And it is precisely because we are sheep that God’s armor is so important in our lives. He provides us access to His armor that we might have a chance of success in the battle against evil.

Discovering the Way1. The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:13 – 17)God’s armor, which Paul described as six separate pieces — clothing of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and sword of the Spirit — serves to protect us from the Devil’s attacks.

2. The Christian’s Battle Cry: Pray! (Ephesians 6:18 – 20)With the battle raging all around, Paul advised the believers at Ephesus to trust in God through prayer.

Starting Your JourneyBecause of God’s gracious provision of armor, we can rely on Him to see us through the trials and temptations that come.

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansStrong Armor for Weak Sheep
















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The Heart of the MatterEnoch. Moses. Caleb. Paul. When we think about these men, we recall how they lived fully and finished well. We remember them for their faithfulness to God, but how did they remain faithful? What makes a person walk with God for three hundred years or do his best work in the last decades of life? We attain some insight into these questions in the final verses of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, where he provided four guidelines for finishing well.

Discovering the Way1. Stay Strong in Prayer (Ephesians 6:18 – 19)Prayer is the basis for our continued strength in this world.

2. Be Bold in Courage (Ephesians 6:19 – 20)Paul’s circumstance as he wrote this letter — he was a prisoner for the gospel — reminds us of the significance of being brave enough to speak the truth.

3. Cultivate Closeness with Faithful Friends (Ephesians 6:21 – 22)Paul had numerous friends that he looked to for support — not to mention those younger than him whom he mentored and trained.

4. Let Love for Christ Abound (Ephesians 6:23 – 24)Rather than worrying over our circumstances, Paul set an example of loving — no matter the trial that he faced.

Starting Your JourneyThe church at Ephesus unfortunately did not hold strong to Paul’s final word. Will you?

Becoming a People of Grace: An Exposition of EphesiansHere’s How to Finish Well

EphEsians 6:18–24















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becoming a people of grace: an exposition of ephesians j i bpg becoming a... · the heart of the...

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