Study Questions: Ephesians #7
A Christlike Posture
Ephesians 4:1-7 (CGS#7)
INTRODUCTION: This week, we will turn into chapter four of Ephesians. We will find that Paul makes a vital pivot in this chapter. In chapters 1-3, he gave us the theological footing to understand both God and ourselves. Now, in chapters 4-6, Paul will work out the ethical and moral expectations that come with a redeemed life. As we turn our gaze to those practical outcomes, we must not forget the truth that he left us with at the close of chapter 3, God’s strength makes the Christian life possible. We must keep this square in our minds as we work through the remaining portions of the letter. Why? Because we will always be tempted to try to live like Christ under our own power. It is the “I’ve got this” syndrome where we know we needed help at one point, but now we’re all good. The truth is, we will never stop needing God’s power to live Godly lives. And the good news from chapter three is that God never tires of giving us his strength.
So, what will Paul begin with as he now focuses on the practical realities of our salvation? Well, in the first seven verses of chapter four, we will be greeted by a core truth (that we’ve already heard) and three virtues that resemble the character and posture of Jesus. The core truth is that we, as believers, are to walk in a different way than the world around us. Why? Because we have gone from walking in the way of this world to being alive in Christ (cf. 2:1,5). This is something we’ve heard multiple times in the letter. You were something before, and now, in Christ, you are something new. Paul holds that idea and stresses that we are to walk in that something new! This means that Christianity is not merely about some insurance that gets us out of eternal separation from God. Yes, we are saved for eternal life, but we are to walk in that eternal life here and now. Our salvation in every way imaginable is to be realized in practical outcomes. The temptation can be to let spiritual things live in a corner of our lives that is not associated with “real” life. Or that only mystically spiritual people are the ones who live out the virtues of faith. But Paul won’t let us get away with that type of thinking. Our salvation has implications for eternity and for the here and now. So, Paul stresses three virtues that are to be visible in the life of every believer. Why? Because they were visible in Jesus, and we are coming into conformity with Christ and are to bear fruit that looks like Jesus (cf. 2:10-11). That means we are exhibiting the fruit of humility, gentleness, and patience. Humility is a willingness to think of myself less often and be focused on serving others. This is not a neglect of personal needs or worth. Humility is rooted in a genuine concern for others. That concern results in a posture of gentleness where we remain self-controlled and tempered even in the face of challenges. Finally, through the perspective of humility and the posture of gentleness, we extend patience to those around us. The challenge is that we often think of patient people as unbothered people. However, that’s not true. Extending patience is more about seeing the bigger picture in someone’s life in the midst of something that does bother you and choosing to work for their greatest good instead of the opposite. These are not easy virtues to live out. That is why we cannot forget that we have been called to them (they’re not optional), and God gives us strength to live them out. Paul will continue to flesh these virtues out in various situations throughout the remainder of the letter. That is why we need to understand them and to be reminded that the reality of salvation results in a Christlike posture.
GETTING STARTED – As a group, take time to answer this question. Of the three virtues that Paul talks about (humility, gentleness, and patience), which one comes most naturally for you, and which one is most challenging for you?
IN THE WORD – Let’s dig back into the passage(s). It is important to strengthen our muscles in reading God’s Word. On Sunday, we walked through the passage in the sermon. Hopefully, that helped you to see the landmarks of the passage with fresh eyes. Now, with your group, go back through it and see what God is saying to you specifically.
First, before you read the passage, take a moment to ask God’s Spirit to quiet your mind and heart and to illuminate the text to you. Second, read the passage aloud to the group. Then, follow the simple method below. (O.P.A)
Observe: Make 8-10 observations from the passage. Pay close attention to observe and note repeated words and phrases, names, places, and themes.
Principles: From your list of observations, what patterns or big ideas do you see emerging? Can you distill it down into 2-4 big idea truths?
Apply: Moving from your list of principles, it is time to apply God’s Word. Remember, we believe that God’s Word is living and active and that it can change the way we live Monday- Friday. What is one tangible way to apply a truth from your list above?
Note: Another way to approach your time together is to talk through the following questions.
- Paul talks about our lives being a calling. Do you think of your life in the same way? If so, how is that expressed tangibly? If not, how do you define your life?
- Paul is resolute and clear in this passage that to live as a Christian is not an optional pursuit for Christians. What challenges you in this passage? What inspires you in this passage?
- How do you see the virtues of humility, gentleness, and patience exhibited in the life of Christ?
- Too often, we can look at the three virtues that Paul lists and misunderstand or misapply them. Which one do you struggle to understand the most? How does Jesus’ life help clarify that for you?
- How does the right application of those three virtues lead to peace and unity within the church? What is your active role in unity look like?
Remember pastor Brent’s questions of examen from Inspire Sunday’s Q&A? Consider utilizing them in the evening this week to help you connect with God and be purposefully responsive.
- Where did I see God today?
- Where did I miss God today?
- What do I need from God tomorrow?