Connected Christians put on a show

Based on Ephesians 3:1-13

For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—

2 Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me for you, 3 that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. 4 In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. 6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.

7 I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. 8 Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. 10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11 according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. 13 I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

  1. “I’m not _____ enough.” What are some “enoughs” many people say today?  

  2. Are you well connected to others currently or not? What has that done to your shame?  

  3. Verse 2. What does Paul tell us about the gospel when he says that he has been asked to administer God’s grace?  

  4. Verse 6. What is the mystery in these verses? Why isn’t the mystery the forgiveness of sins or Jesus’ death on the cross?  

  5. Ancient mystery religions promised strong connection to people with participation in secret societies. At the same time, the most prominent organization at Paul’s time that wanted to connect people together (in the same manner as Paul uniting Israelites and Greeks), was the Roman Empire. What is Paul saying about both and about the gospel as a 3rd way?  

  6. Verse 12 Are you bold and brave to come before God?  

  7. How could these words from Paul help you connect to some people around you?