Ephesians 3: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Ephesians 3 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul identifies himself as a prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of the Gentiles (v. 1). He mentions the grace of God given to him and refers to a mystery revealed to him (vv.

Key verse

“Now to him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,”
Ephesians 3:20 (WEB)

Outline

Ephesians 3:1 Paul identifies as a prisoner
Ephesians 3:2–6 Revelation of the mystery
Ephesians 3:7–9 Paul's role and mission
Ephesians 3:10–13 God's wisdom revealed
Ephesians 3:14–19 Paul's prayer for strength
Ephesians 3:20–21 Doxology of praise

Discussion questions

In v6, what does Paul mean by 'fellow heirs' in relation to the Gentiles?
In v12, what is meant by 'boldness and access in confidence' through faith?
Paul's statement about the 'mystery' in vv. 3-5: how does this concept challenge previous Jewish understanding?
In v19, what does it mean to be 'filled with all the fullness of God'?
When have you felt strengthened to comprehend love that 'surpasses knowledge' in your life?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Ephesians 3: Philippians 4, Ephesians 1, Colossians 1.

Before next time: read Ephesians 4.