Bible Study - Ephesians - 4

This swap is adapted from Max Lucado's Life Lessons bible study on Ephesians. This is Lesson 4 of 12 and I will host one swap per lesson. Each lesson varies in length.

You may handwrite or type your swap and use any medium or type of paper you prefer (eg. lined note paper, journal, etc.). Just make sure that it is legible and can be read. Follow the prompts and answer the questions below! Enjoy & message me if you have any questions!

LESSON 4: FAMILY TIES AND RACIAL BLURS

REFLECTION QUESTION: In Paul's day the early Christians wrestled with prejudice and racism and pride. In our day people in the church are not perfect either. For a few moments, consider the relationships you have within the family of God. Do you put up walls and barriers? How have the good parts of these relationships and experiences shaped you as a person?

OBSERVATION: Read Ephesians 2: 11-22.

EXPLORATION QUESTIONS: 1. List some characteristics that would have separated Jews from Gentiles.

1. What is Paul describing when he says that Christ in our "peace?"

2. Before Christ's death the Jewish nation judged their righteousness by their obedience to numerous laws, regulations, and sacrifices. In what way did Christ's life and death challenge that concept of righteousness?

3. Christ's death and resurrection changed the way we approach God-- from his creatures to his children. Describe the difference. (For additional help, look at Romans 8:13-17).

4. This passage describes the church of Christ as a building of many stones. How does that analogy work well in describing church today?

REACTION QUESTIONS: 1. What were the racial implications of the peace that Christ brought?

1. One of the efforts of Christ was to end racially based and culturally based hatred. In what ways can the church today help that effort?

2. List the best benefits you have discovered in belonging to God's family.

3. How did Christ's death give us the right to come to God as our father?

4. What barriers to unity in Christ have you seen in your own church?

5. What's important about the fact that Jesus is the cornerstone or the church? How can that fact lead to more unity among believers?

JOURNAL QUESTION: What are my privileges and responsibilities in belonging to God's family?