2025.01.19_GOD_S_PLAN_2_man.docx

**Bible Study Discussion Guide**

**Bible Reading:**
- Ephesians 2:1-22

**Observation Questions:**
1. What does Paul mean when he says we were "dead in our transgressions and sins" in Ephesians 2:1?
2. How does Paul describe the transformation that occurs through God's grace in Ephesians 2:4-5?
3. What barriers does Paul say are broken down through Christ in Ephesians 2:14-16?
4. According to Ephesians 2:10, what are we created in Christ Jesus to do?

**Interpretation Questions:**
1. How does the concept of "flipping the script" relate to the transformation described in Ephesians 2:1-5?
2. In what ways does the unity described in Ephesians 2:14-16 challenge cultural and social norms?
3. What does it mean to be God's "handiwork" as mentioned in Ephesians 2:10, and how does this shape our understanding of purpose?
4. How can believers remain aware of the grace they have received, as emphasized in the sermon?

**Application Questions:**
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "script flip" in your life. How did God's grace play a role in that transformation?
2. In what ways can you actively contribute to unity within your church community, breaking down barriers as described in Ephesians 2:14-16?
3. Identify a specific good work that you feel called to pursue. How can you take steps this week to align your actions with this purpose?
4. Consider your current spiritual practices. How can you ensure that you remain aware of the grace you have received and the new life you have in Christ?
5. Think about a cultural norm or conventional wisdom that you feel called to defy in order to live more fully as a follower of Christ. What steps can you take to seek God's guidance in this area?
6. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of belonging and community within your church, reflecting the unity and peace described in Ephesians 2?
7. What specific distractions or habits might be preventing you from living intentionally in your new identity in Christ? How can you address these challenges this week?

Day 1: The Transformative Power of Grace
In Ephesians 2:1-22, we see the profound impact of God's grace on our lives. Once, we were spiritually dead, separated from God by our sins. But through Jesus Christ, we have been made alive, experiencing a complete renewal of our identity and purpose. This transformation is not merely a change in status; it is a radical shift in our entire being. We are called to embrace this new life, living out the grace that has been bestowed upon us. As we walk in this new identity, we are reminded that our lives are a testament to the power of God's grace, which has made us who we are in Christ.

Ephesians 2:4-5 (ESV): "But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved."

Reflection: Consider an area of your life where you still feel "dead" or unchanged. How can you invite God's transformative grace into that area today?


Day 2: Unity Beyond Boundaries
God's plan for humanity is one of unity and reconciliation. Through Christ, the barriers that once divided us—ethnicity, culture, social status—are broken down. We are called to be one body, a new humanity united in Christ. This unity is not just an ideal but a reality that we are to live out daily. As members of this diverse body, we are to reflect the peace and reconciliation that Christ has achieved for us. Living in harmony with others, despite our differences, is a powerful testimony to the world of God's inclusive love and grace.

Ephesians 2:14-16 (ESV): "For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility... that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace."

Reflection: Think of someone from a different background or culture in your community. How can you reach out to them this week to build a bridge of understanding and unity?


Day 3: Living with Divine Purpose
As God's workmanship, we are created in Christ Jesus to do good works. This means that our lives have a divine purpose, and we are equipped to fulfill it through the power of the Holy Spirit. Our actions should align with God's will, allowing us to live a life that is pleasing to Him and impactful to those around us. Recognizing our purpose in Christ gives us direction and meaning, motivating us to live intentionally and make a difference in the world.

Ephesians 2:10 (ESV): "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

Reflection: Identify one specific good work that you feel called to pursue. What steps can you take this week to begin walking in that purpose?


Day 4: Staying Aware of Grace
It's easy to become complacent in our faith, especially if we've been believers for a long time. However, we must remain aware of the incredible grace we've received and the new life we have in Christ. By staying connected to God through prayer and reflection, we can ensure that our lives are aligned with His purposes. This awareness keeps our faith vibrant and our hearts open to the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV): "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."

Reflection: Set aside time today to reflect on the grace you've received. How can you cultivate a deeper awareness of this grace in your daily life?


Day 5: Defying the World with Faith
Living as a follower of Christ often means going against cultural norms and conventional wisdom. We are called to live defiantly, seeking God's guidance and wisdom rather than relying solely on our understanding. By doing so, we can navigate life's challenges with faith and integrity, knowing that God's grace is sufficient for us. This defiance is not about rebellion for its own sake but about choosing to live according to God's truth, even when it contradicts the world's values.

1 Corinthians 1:25 (ESV): "For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men."

Reflection: Identify one area where you feel pressured to conform to worldly standards. How can you choose to live according to God's wisdom instead?

1. "God has made us something we can never be without Him. We were dead, but God flipped the script and made us alive in Christ."


2. "In Christ, anything that could separate us from one another has been destroyed—social, ethnic, cultural, language, political, financial—no one is left out or excluded."


3. "We were dead without a prayer in the world, but God made us alive. We were excluded without a pathway to belonging, but Christ opened the door wide."


4. "God's plan includes us, people who were not originally included. The nation God is forming comprises people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation."


5. "We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."


6. "Choose to live defiantly by seeking God through prayer, asking Him to order your steps and to grant you wisdom the world will not provide."


7. "We were made to live in relationship with God and to cooperate with His desires in the world. Cultural expectations will not always lead us to follow His plan."


8. "If you came to Christ as an adult, you know the difference between your old life and the new life. You experienced what Paul is talking about."


9. "God gives us the power to pursue what is good and pleasing to Him as we cooperate with His Holy Spirit."


10. "We may never know what life would be like without Him, but we cannot know the fullness of His glorious riches in Christ if we hold onto things that keep us from pursuing Him."