Welcome back to the Life Transformation Group Study!
(If you’re new, or need a refresher on the method, see this post)
To begin, we will read through the entire book of Ephesians at least once, but as many times as possible.
Ideally, you will read through it in one sitting to gain a full understanding of the context. Familiarize yourself with the book as a whole. Remember, it’s important to understand the bigger picture before examining the details.
Tip: Try reading from a couple of different trusted versions, such as the ESV, CSB, and NKJV if you have access to them. This can expand our understanding.
This is also the time to:
Write down any questions that came to mind as you read
Make a note of any words you don’t understand or would like to understand more deeply as we go through each chapter.
Perhaps jot down anything you notice regarding things that are:
Emphasized
Repeated
Related
Reminder: Filter your study through the lens of the 5 P’s: Purpose, Perspective, Patience, Process, and Prayer (You will find these described in the handout available here)
Once you’ve got a feel for the overall book, it’s time to write your first General Statement (or paraphrase, summary, etc.—however you need to think of it!).
Day 1:
▲ Make a general summary statement/paraphrase of what you think this portion of Scripture is about.
I think this book is about_____
This can be one sentence or several paragraphs—you get to decide based on the time you have. (You may start small and build up to adding more as you gain experience and ability. It’s like building a muscle!)
Next, we’ll check study notes or reference materials to determine the 4 A’s.
The 4 A’s:
Authorship: Who wrote it? When?
Audience: Who were the original readers?
(Remember, we want to understand it first through the lens of the original readers at that time and place before seeing how it applies to us now in this time and place)
Architecture: What genre is it? What structure is used?
7 types of literary genres: Old Testament narrative (law & History), poetry, Old Testament Wisdom, Old Testament prophets, New Testament narrative, letters, and apocalyptic
Keep in mind that a book may fall into more than one category: For example, Ezekiel is prophetic and narrative–even apocalyptic.
Aim (purpose): Why was the book written?
* Remember, for the first session of a new book, we look at the broader view of the following questions before getting more detailed as we go chapter-by-chapter.
Day 2:
↑ What does this teach me about God?
Day 3:
↓ What does this teach me about man/humanity?
Day 4:
† What does this teach me about Christ (or how does this point me to Christ?)
Day 5:
✓How can I apply this to my life?
Questions to consider for application:
From “Living by the Book”
Is there an example for me to follow?
Is there a sin to avoid?
Is there a promise to claim?
Is there a prayer to repeat?
Is there a command to obey?
Is there a condition to meet?
Is there a verse to memorize?
Is there an error to mark and avoid?
Is there a challenge to face?
As you consider these questions, ask the Holy Spirit to highlight which is most relevant for you at this particular moment in your life.
↓ Verses for the Ephesians Scripture Memory Challenge:
Paul’s Prayer for the Ephesians
... for this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I ask that out of the riches of His glory, He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Then you, being rooted and grounded in love, will have power, together with all the saints, to comprehend the length and width and height and depth of the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 3:14-21
(feel free to use your preferred version)
Accountability questions:
In what ways has God blessed me? How have I shared my blessings?
Options to Go Deeper:
*The Go Deeper options are not a requirement, but simply resources for anyone with time and interest to go a little deeper. Choose one or all—whatever works for you!
One Hour. One Book.
(This ↓ is fascinating and well worth the time investment!)
The Bible Project:
Spoken Gospel:
A prayer for the week:
Father,
As we begin to study your Word in the book of Ephesians, please open our hearts to the truth you have for us during this study. We ask that you open our spiritual eyes and ears to see and hear what you would have us learn. Guide us and grant us discernment, Lord. Give us soft hearts toward you and others. May we be transformed more and more into the likeness of Jesus.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
Blessings🤍