Ephesians 2:1-10–Questions

1.  In the first 3 verses, Paul goes to great lengths to describe our lives prior to receiving God’s grace. What words does he use to do this? According to Paul, how did each of these affect our lives prior to accepting God’s grace?  What are some of the other biblical descriptions of our lives prior to receiving God’s grace?

2.  In verses 4-6,  Paul describes how we are changed by God’s grace. What images does he use to describe the changes? What are some other biblical descriptions of our lives after we’ve been changed by God’s grace?

3.  When Paul says that our salvation is not from ourselves (verses 8-9), is he saying that we play no role in our salvation? Explain.   Does verse 10 contradict verses 8-9?

4.  Ephesians seems to make it pretty clear that we can do nothing to earn God’s favor and love–it’s simply a gift we are offered to receive.  But we humans tend to slip back into thinking we can earn God’s love.  When do you most often do this?  In what area of your life? When has God reminded you that He loves you unconditionally, and that you can’t (nor do you need to try to) earn His love?

5.  Take a few moments to consider how God’s grace is compelling you to “do good works”  this week.  How are you going to carry out these good works?