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Ephesians 3:1-13
“Hidey-Hole”
Ever since I was little, I've wanted a house with a secret hiding place — a hidey-hole where I could safely escape from the world. But sadly, in the past 20 years of homeownership, none of my stock-standard builder-grade homes had such a feature. That is, until now! During a recent renovation, we created a custom cabinet reserved for our robotic Roomba vacuum. Though typically out of sight, words can't express my extreme elation every time it emerges from its secret cubby to clean our house.
Here in Ephesians 3:1-13, Paul reveals the good news that's been under wraps — "the mystery hidden for ages, in God" (Eph. 3:9) — specifically, "that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel" (Eph. 3:6)!
Paul's suffering and imprisonment paled compared to the privilege of preaching God's eternal plan to the Gentiles.
THE BIG IDEA
Sitting in jail, the apostle knows he's "a prisoner of Christ" (Eph. 3:1) rather than Rome. He's in chains because his Jewish contemporaries couldn't conceive of co-mingling with these "horrible heathens." But God, being rich in grace and mercy, made Paul his minister — a servant sent with unsearchable saving news for those "who once were far off" (Eph. 2:13; 3:7-8).
Paul's message echoes the past two chapters, connecting his discussions of enlightenment (Eph. 1:18), grace (Eph. 2:4-6), oneness (Eph. 2:14-15), and the incredible blessings found in Christ (Eph. 1:10). So like a lightbulb turned on in a dark room, we stand in shock and awe, seeing God's incredible wisdom on full display (Eph. 3:9)! And it's not just us, but the "rulers and authorities in the heavenly places" also marvel in amazement at God's work in the church (Eph. 3:10)
So rather than wallowing in self-pity, Paul calls us to join him in faith and boldness (Eph. 3:12), rejoicing in the glory and salvation the gospel brings to believers of every nation.
How does God's revealed mystery give you boldness and confidence?
THE BIG QUESTION
Eternal Purpose
Be Bold in God's Salvation
INTRODUCTION
Launch the study with a CONVERSATION STARTER on the Big Idea.
Read or watch “Hidey-Hole” (above). What do you take from that Big Idea and Big Question? ICE BREAKER — Get everyone engaged and talking.
What's the best surprise moment you've been on the receiving end of?ACT I
FINDING JESUS — Ephesians 3:1-13
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
THE A-TEAM — Paul's Gentile Impact
We’ve found that drafting your “fantasy team” of certain Bible people and topics can make for a fun and edifying way to discuss Scripture. So prepare by making your “draft board” below, listing your top examples of Gentiles impacted by Paul in the Bible. As you think about individuals and groups associated with the “apostle to the Gentiles,” consider all those he converted, taught, worked with, and shone God’s light upon. If you get stuck, you can always use a Bible reference book or a search engine to look for ideas. As you build your list, note why you would choose it and what it’s about. #1 #2 #3 #4 #5If you’re studying in a group, break into groups and work together to choose your
“A-Team” of Gentiles impacted by Paul, tracking each team and discussing each pick as they’re made. And remember to be ready for the other team to “steal” your top choices! We recommend doing 3 rounds of “draft picks.” At the end, review the two teams and acknowledge all of the great examples of praise songs in Scripture. Then discuss: Who almost made the cut? What lessons or insights do you take from the exercise as a whole!ACT III
REACH OUT — Connect with each other with this question.
What do you take away from Paul's positivity in prison?WRAP UP
THE CHALLENGE — Ready to put it into practice?
Ask a believing friend to join you in talking to a stranger about the Lord.REQUEST — Go to God in a closing prayer.
"May your wisdom be shown to all through your church" (cf. Eph. 3:10).
NEXT SESSION — Christ’s Love
Prepare by reading Ephesians 3:14-21.