Chapter Summary

Believer's position in grace. The prayer for knowledge and power.

Discussion Questions for Ephesians, Chapter 1

1. Paul's letter to the Ephesians opens up in a much more encouraging manner than some of the other books. Why was this church more willing to listen and obey than some of the other churches? What other letters were written to the people of Ephesus? Why is this an important detail?
2. Do verses 3-14 affirm Calvinism? Why or why not? Who is the subject of this passage, Jesus or us? How does knowing the subject of this passage affect the way we interpret this passage?
3. Does the Bible have a clear answer on Calvinism vs Arminianism? Why or why not? Is there a better way to understand this passage?
4. How many times does the phrase "In him" or "In Christ" (or similar phrases) appear in this first chapter? What does it mean to be "In him"?
5. With Christ as the center of verses 3-14, He is the source of all blessing. How has the Lord blessed you? How can you bless the Lord?
6. How is the Holy Spirit " the downpayment of our inheritance" (verse 14, CSB)? If the Holy Spirit is the downpayment, what does the fullness of that downpayment look like?
7. How might the Ephesian church been a blessing to Paul during this time in his life? How can living a faithful life give hope to those that have poured into you?
8. What is the "wealth of *his* inheritance" mentioned in verse 19 (CSB)? As adopted children, how do we also get to partake in this inheritance?
9. If Christ is above every ruler, why do we still have bad rulers? Why doesn't the Lord punish these bad rulers?
10. Who is the head of the Church? Who is the head of your church? What makes this person head of your church?

Key Words/Phrase

Spiritual blessings, v. 3.

Characters

Christ, God, Holy Spirit, Paul.

Strong Verse(s)

3, 4, 7, 13, 14, 22, 23.