An Intro to Ephesians
Read Ephesians 2:8-9
Today’s Truth
Ephesians is one of four letters written by Paul while he was in prison (the others were Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon). Ephesus was the city from which reports of Paul’s preaching and a circular letter were passed on to other Asian churches.
Because of the city’s interest in magic and the occult, Paul makes a strong case for the supreme power and authority of God over all things to keep the Ephesians grounded in the faith.
This book was written around AD 62, when Paul was imprisoned in Rome and awaiting trial. The book of Ephesians connects the glorious, mind-stretching truths of the gospel (chapters 1-3) to the down-to-earth application of these truths in our daily lives (chapters 4-6).
Discussion Questions
- Ephesians 2:8–9 is often seen as the heart of the letter. What does it teach us about God’s grace?
- How does understanding salvation as a “gift” affect the way we live and relate to others?
- How might a deeper understanding of our spiritual identity change our daily outlook?
Application
As Paul walks us through the all-encompassing impact of God’s work and gift of salvation on our everyday lives, we’re reminded that we’ve been made alive in Christ! And as God’s children, we must put away the weight of sin that holds us down, submit to one another out of love from and for Jesus, and stand firm amidst the spiritual battles that surround us.
