The answer to our search for identity isn’t to try harder, but to comprehend more fully and clearly the completed work of Christ and live with more awareness of that reality day by day. The Christian life is not trying to gain what we don’t have, but living in the fullness of what we already have in Christ. ~ Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever experienced a situation where you wish you had more knowledge or insight prior to it occurring? Share the story. How would greater insight have helped you in this experience?
Read: Ephesians 1:15-23; Colossians 1:9-12; 1 Peter 1; Hebrews 6:19-20
Discuss:
1. How is our Christian identity affected by unknown situations? If our identity is set in Christ, why do so many Christians struggle with anxiety, worry and fear? After describing the amazing blessings of our faith in Christ (Ephesians 1:3-14), what does Paul pray for?
2. In addition to giving thanks, Paul prays that God would give them a “spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.” Who or what are the sources of wisdom that lead to this knowledge? Paul desires them to see and know three realities. What are they? Of these three, which do you most need to embrace and experience right now?
3. What is the “hope” to which we have been called? How is Biblical hope different than our view of hope?
4. How does the world’s pursuit of identity cause people to feel unworthy instead of secure? What is the “inheritance” to which Paul refers? Is it God? Is it us? How does the knowledge of your inheritance in Christ help build security and prepare you for obedience?
5. Paul goes on to pray that we will know the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. According to verses 19-23, how has God demonstrated His power? What are the areas in your life where you need more power?
6. Imagine that Paul’s prayer was answered in your life. What might look different? What are you praying about right now in your life?
Pray: Pray that you would have eyes to see and faith to apply the confident hope, the glorious inheritance, and working power that God has supplied you.
Memorize/Meditate: I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him…Ephesians 1:16-17
