Paul wrote Ephesians while imprisoned, likely toward the end of his life, addressing the church in Ephesus, the fourth largest city in the Roman Empire and a center of idol worship. Paul had a strong bond with this church, visiting often and spending more time there than with any other congregation.
Though the exact purpose of Ephesians remains somewhat unclear, the letter serves as a comprehensive guide for believers' spiritual development. It stands as a profound declaration of Christian doctrine, functioning essentially as a manifesto for the church. The epistle is divided into two sections: the first half discusses Christ and the blessings of salvation, while the second half applies these teachings to everyday Christian life.
The letter shows how the gospel changes every part of believers' lives, within the church, in relationships, and in daily actions in a secular world. Despite Ephesus being notorious for its corruption, perversion, immorality, and idolatry, Paul never suggested abandoning the city. Instead, he established a thriving church there.
In Ephesians, Paul shows how Christ and the richness of the gospel change believers' lives, helping them live faithfully in a wicked society.
The Big Idea of Ephesians
S: What difference does the gospel make?
C: It creates a new humanity and changes how we live.
BI: The gospel creates a new humanity and changes how we live.
Unpacking the Gospel (1-3)
Praise to God (1:1-14)
S: Why should believers praise God?
C: Because the Triune God chose us, redeemed us, and sealed us.
BI: Understand what God has done for you and worship.
Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom (1:15-23)
S: How should we pray for believers?
C: Pray that they know hope, riches, and power.
BI: Pray that we understand all that God has done for us in Jesus.
From Death to New Life in Christ (2:1-10)
S: How did God save us?
C: By his grace, he made us alive and equipped us to serve him.
BI: By his grace, God makes dead people live and equips them to serve him.
From Alienation to Reconciliation (2:11-22)
S: What else did God do when he saved us?
C: He made us part of his people.
BI: We don’t just get saved; we also get a family.
Paul’s Ministry (3:1-13)
S: Why did Paul suffer?
C: To play his part in God’s unfolding plan.
BI: It’s worth suffering to play our parts in God’s unfolding plan.
Prayer to Live in Light of the Gospel (3:14-19)
S: What should we pray for the church?
C:/BI: Pray that we comprehend God’s incomprehensible love.
Living in Light of the Gospel (4-6)
The Church and Its Mission (4:1-16)
S: How should we respond to the gospel?
C: By helping the church grow in unity and maturity by using our gifts.
BI: In response to God’s grace, help the church grow with your gifts.
Putting Off the Old, Putting On the New (4:17-5:21)
4:17-24; 5:3-21
S: How should we live as Christians?
C: By putting off the old and putting on the new.
BI: Abandon your old life and adopt the new life God has given you.
4:25-5:2
S: How should we relate within the church?
C: With behaviors that honor God.
BI: Relate in godly ways within the church.
The Gospel and Relationships (5:22-6:9)
S: How does the gospel change our relationships?
C: It calls us to selfless love and service.
BI: The gospel calls us to selfless love and service in our relationships.
Spiritual Warfare (6:10-24)
S: How should we respond to spiritual attack?
C: By standing with God’s armor.
BI: Expect spiritual attack, and take your stand with the resources God provides.
