One Man Study #2

David Staff   -   September 13, 2020

By Grace to Good Works

Ephesians 2:8-10

Exploring the 2nd chapter of Paul’s letter to Ephesus, we discover that it matters to God what you and I think about our salvation.  It matters to the Lord if we have this right – that we are clear about HOW our rescue came to be and WHAT God purposes once we have been raised to life.

If we don’t understand HOW this came to be, we can become Christians re-trapped in pride.  If we don’t understand for WHAT God has created us, we can become Christians living in selfishness.

The objective of this group study:  Focus on being difference makers through the impact of good works. 

GETTING STARTED:  In your formative years, did anyone model for you what it meant to impact others through good works?  It is likely some will say “yes” and others “not really.”  Have people share from both sides of the answer.   What was powerful about someone committed to “doing good” toward others?  (and conversely)  Without a model, did you sense something important was missing from your life?

IN THE WORD:  This week’s teaching raised the question – What are the good works God prepared beforehand that we should do?  What do the Scriptures suggest for good works?

#1   The Good Work of Abiding in Christ – John 15:1-14

  • From Jesus’ words here, what does “abiding” mean? How do you do this?
  • Why is this “abiding” so critical to everything else?
  • What does Jesus mean by “bearing much fruit”? Do you consider yourself “fruitful” these days?

#2   The Good Work of Loving your Fellow Christians – John 13:2-14, 33-35, cf. 1 John 4:7-21

  • The Spirit uses the Apostle John , more than other apostles, to emphasize the importance of love between Christians. What do you think he remembered about Jesus washing his feet?  How was that an act of love?
  • From your understanding of Scripture, what does it mean to “love” other Christians?
  • What stands out about love in 1 John 4? Do you think you love other believers well?  How?

#3   The Good Work of Commending the Gospel thru goodness to others – Matt 5:13-16, Gal. 6:10, Lk 10:25-37

  • According to Matthew 5, how important are good works to God’s reputation?
  • 6 and Luke 10 talk about taking the opportunity presented to do good to others? When is the last time the Spirit gave you such an opportunity?  Did you take it?

INTO LIFE:   DON’T SKIP THIS STEP…discuss

  • Which of the 3 “good works” areas above needs immediate attention in your daily living and walk?
  • What are you going to do about it?
  • Who will be your encourager and hold you accountable?
  • Do you think it will make a small – medium – or big difference in your life going forward?

Matthew 5: 14  “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. (Jesus)

 

 

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