Ephesians 2:1-10 (NIV)

Today’s passage is one we might have heard a lot if we grew up in church. But whether you’re familiar with it or not, remember Paul’s prayer at the beginning of the letter--for the Ephesians, but also for us--that the eyes of our hearts would be opened--to know the hope we’re called to, the riches of his glorious inheritance in us, his incomparably great power for those who believe. Ask the Holy Spirit to open the eyes of your heart today.

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1. What descriptive words or contrasting ideas stood out to you in this passage?

2.  Before the gift of Jesus, we followed the way of the world. We listened to and followed our own desires and thoughts above all else. But even now in Christ, we can’t pretend that this isn’t still a temptation. What areas of your life are you tempted to choose what you want, even if you know it’s leading you away from Jesus?

3. It might seem like this passage is meant to tell us how terrible we are. But while we indeed are hopeless without God, that’s not where the passage leaves us. No matter how wretched we are or have been, the goodness of God’s love--demonstrated in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus--is more powerful, more merciful, and more beautiful than we could ever imagine. In what areas of your life do you need to receive the kindness and goodness of the Lord?

----------GO DEEPER----------

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