Ephesians 6: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Ephesians 6 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Children are to obey their parents ‘in the Lord’ because it is right. They are told to honor their father and mother, which is a commandment with a promise (vv. 1-3).

Key verse

“Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might.”
Ephesians 6:10 (WEB)

Outline

Ephesians 6:1–4 Instructions for Children and Fathers
Ephesians 6:5–9 Guidance for Servants and Masters
Ephesians 6:10–17 The Armor of God
Ephesians 6:18–20 The Role of Prayer
Ephesians 6:21–24 Final Greetings and Blessings

Discussion questions

In v1, what does Paul instruct children to do regarding their parents?
What promise is found in v3 for honoring one’s parents?
In v5, what does it mean to serve 'with fear and trembling'?
In vv. 12-13, why does Paul emphasize that our struggle is not against 'flesh and blood'?
When have you felt the need to 'put on the whole armor of God' in your life?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Ephesians 6: Philippians 4, Colossians 3, 1 Corinthians 16.

Before next time: read Philippians 1.