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Ephesians 6:21-24
“Still Science Fiction”
It's been almost sixty years since Captain Kirk first told Scotty to "beam" him up. I think the younger me hoped scientists would have made some progress by now! But teleportation technology is still science fiction, so we call long-distance friends and tell them to "Give everyone there our love!" Since we can't be there, we want someone to express our friendship and blessings.
In Ephesians 6:21-24, Paul closes by commending his letter-carrying emissary. Tychicus is more than a mailman. Along with the letter (and probably letters to Colossians and Philemon, too), the "faithful minister" comes with two purposes: "that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts" (Eph. 6:22). In the letter's last two sentences, Paul prays a blessing for them that summarizes the whole book (Eph. 6:23-24).
God wants every Christian's life to overflow with peace, love, faith, and grace.
THE BIG IDEA
What's the good news? Why do we rejoice in Christ? In short, because of the peace. The grace. The love. All received through faith in the one who died for us, rose again, and reigns "in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion" (Eph. 1:20-21).
Jesus "preached peace" and "he himself is our peace" (Eph. 2:17, 14). He united Jews and Gentiles, reconciling "us both to God in one body through the cross" (Eph. 2:16). Redemption, adoption, inheritance, and all spiritual blessings (Eph. 1:3-14) come "by grace ... through faith" (Eph. 2:8). It's "because of the great love with which he loved us" that he "made us alive together with Christ" (Eph. 2:4-5).
These four heavy words have had starring roles in Ephesians, so it's fitting that they're named as the book ends and the credits roll. We pray that they may have a starring role in you. Grace, peace, and "love with faith ... be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible" (Eph. 6:24).
What has this study taught you about God's love and grace?
THE BIG QUESTION
Conclusion
Abound in Grace and Peace
INTRODUCTION
Launch the study with a CONVERSATION STARTER on the Big Idea.
Read or watch “Still Science Fiction” (above). What do you take from that Big Idea and Big Question? ICE BREAKER — Get everyone engaged and talking.
When was the last time you snail-mailed someone a letter?
ACT I
FINDING JESUS — Ephesians 6:21-24
What does this passage teach you about Jesus?Of all that Paul tells us about Christ’s work and character, what strikes you the most?Why?How can reflecting on and applying this passage draw us closer to Christ?
ACT II
HEAVY WORDS — Peace, Love, Faith, and Grace
These four words have been key themes throughout the entire letter, and now Paul features all four with his conclusion in the last two verses. Peace (Greek: eirene) — What key verses in the book have featured this word?
What other Bible passages come to mind? How would you put the Bible’s teaching on peace into one sentence?Love (Greek: agape) — What key verses in the book have featured this word?
What other Bible passages come to mind? How would you put the Bible’s teaching on love into one sentence?Faith (Greek: pistis) — What key verses in the book have featured this word?
What other Bible passages come to mind? How would you put the Bible’s teaching on faith into one sentence?Grace (Greek: charis) — What key verses in the book have featured this word?
What other Bible passages come to mind? How would you put the Bible’s teaching on grace into one sentence?ACT III
REACH OUT — Connect with each other with this question.
What's one way this study of Ephesians will have a lasting impact on you?
WRAP UP
THE CHALLENGE — Ready to put it into practice?
Pick a favorite verse in Ephesians and memorize it.REQUEST — Go to God in a closing prayer.
"May all who love you enjoy peace, grace, and love with faith" (cf. Eph. 6:23-24).