Parkside Mission

6 Prisoner, Preacher & Man of Prayer Ephesians 3:1–21 Purpose: To look at the purpose of the church and its role in fulfilling God's plan. v. 1-13 The ministry of the new covenant, revealing that all may have access to God in Christ. v. 14-21 Prayer for the church to know and experience the love of and fullness of God. What do you think of when you hear the word church ? A building on the corner? A stuffy group of religious hypocrites? A vibrant fellowship? Paul's special ministry enables him to enlarge our conception of the church. In this passage he clarifies and exalts its place in God's plan. 1.   Think of two or three adjectives that summarize your attitude and experience of the body of Christ. Explain. 2.   Read Ephesians 3:1–21. What gifts of God's grace does Paul say he has received (vv. 2–3, 8)? 3.   Explain the meaning of the mystery revealed to Paul (vv. 2–6). How is it connected with the ministry given to him (vv. 7–13)? 4.   ...

1 The New Community - Christ and the Church    Ephesians 1–3 Purpose: To gain an overview of the main aspects of Paul's letter to the Ephesians. To gain a greater love for God's word. Everyone needs community. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Spirit have enjoyed community in their relationship for all eternity. Paul's Epistle to the Ephesians reveals the amazing fulfillment of the once hidden plan of God for His glory through His beloved people, the church…the new community of God. In this study we'll look over the first half of the letter to orient us to some of the basic issues that will come up in later studies. Most importantly, it will help us put those issues in the context. 1.   What do you think real community should be like? What have been your experiences with community?   2.   Read Ephesians 1–3. What are some of the main topics Paul covers in this letter? 3.   Although virtually nothing is stated directly about the people...