Introduction // 5 minutes
Describe a time you took on a D.I.Y. (do it yourself) project that didn’t go as planned. Examples could include home or car repair.
Leader Note: Most projects start out with the best intentions in mind. However, we have all experienced those moments when we come to realize that we are in over our heads and need help!
Observation // 15 minutes
Read Ephesians 2:1-9
What does a “dead in sin” life look like?
Leader Note: The temptation at this point may be to pull from personal examples or stories. Encourage your group to stay in the passage, responding to what is written only.
Sample Answers May Include…
- Full of transgression and sin (v1)
- Following the ways of the world (v2)
- Living to please the fleshly desires (v3)
- Deserving of God’s wrath (3)
What does an “alive in Christ” life look like?
Sample Answers May Include…
- A recipient of grace (v5)
- United with Christ in His life and resurrection (v6)
- A living expression/example of God’s love for generations to see (v7)
- Dependent on God’s grace versus our works (v8-9)
- Purposefully and thankful (v10)
Understanding // 20 minutes
What is celebrated more in our culture, works or grace? Give examples.
Commentary: There is a clear connection scriptural between grace and works. We live out/express the grace we have been given through the actions of our lives (see Romans 12:1). The starting place must always be grace. We don’t work to earn grace rather we live out of the grace we have received. The system of our world is often flipped from this understanding. We work in order to receive.
What are some of the ways people try to earn God’s acceptance?
Commentary: This passage tells us that because of our sin we are dead to rights or “deserving of wrath” (v3). Dead things need more than repair or resuscitation they need new life, a new way of being and doing that cannot be found in and of themselves. We tend to rely on our good works, right moral living or self-perseverance in order to gain God’s grace. This passage reminds us that salvation cannot be obtained through any amount of “right living” or “self repair.”
Application // 20 minutes
In what ways are you attempting to earn God’s acceptance?
What would need to change in your heart and thinking to move from a posture of earning to receiving God’s grace?
Live It Out // 10 minutes
How might a deeper understanding and acceptance of God’s grace impact your life and the lives of others?
Prayer: Father we thank you for your great love for us. We thank you that while we were still sinners and far from you, you sent your son to die for our sins. Help us to more fully understand and accept this gift of grace. Give us courage to live lives of thankful praise as a response for all that you have done for us. Amen!