Engage the Spirit – Study #8
BEGIN WITH YOUR HEART
Paul is convinced that strength for the Christian life only comes from the personal indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Begin by praying as individuals and as a group, ask the Spirit to reveal what part of Jesus’ character needs to be strengthened in you this week?
A LOOK IN GOD’S WORD
The book of Ephesians is split into two distinct parts. The first half of the book (1:1-3:21), is joined to the second half (4:1-6:24) by the word, “therefore” in 4:1. The first half is a theological instruction (i.e. What is right belief?). With the second half being the application of that instruction (i.e. How this shapes your life.) As a group read through chapter 4, and use the OPA Bible study method to understand how the strengthening of the Spirit should be applied in your life this week:
Observation: (What stands out to you after reading this passage? What questions do you have?) Make a list of 5-10 observations. Often, it is helpful to read and then re-read a passage while trying to make observations.
Principles: (From your observations, what are 2-3 principles that seem to emerge?)
Application: (From your 2-3 principles, what is one action step you can apply to your life this week? Remember, ask the Spirit to reveal this to you personally, and then to strengthen you for the work ahead.)
MY LIFE- OUR MISSION
MY LIFE – Where are the most natural avenues for me to share about a God who creates & restores? Who are in those places? Consider: Home, work, & play (gym, community activities, sports leagues, reading groups, clubs, etc.)
YOUR FAMILY – At a dinner table this week, review the 6 LIFE QUESTIONS. Explore with your family members their understanding of what each question means. Which question(s) resonate best with you…and your kids? Do you think it might help to discuss these together as a family each week?
OUR MISSION – Our LIFE QUESTIONS help us assess if our every-day walk with God is engaging in our church’s mission. The more regular our meeting with God, the more we ask for the Spirit’s flowing presence, the more we share our tough stuff with spiritual accountability partners, the more we “put out the welcome mat” to people not yet in God’s family…well, the more the Lord connects people to life-defining relationships in Christ. Right? Let’s lean into our Father’s provisions, and these great questions, together!!