Outside Looking In

Scott Beyer
10/24/23 - Bulletin

“…remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.” (Ephesians 2:12)

            It is good to remember where we came from – especially if we had a rough start.  The man who remembers what it was like to be poor is far less likely to return to poverty.  The woman who remembers a life of loneliness will view the chaos of a busy household full of toddlers with gratitude instead of frustration.

            All Christians were once outsiders.  You know what it was once like to stand outside the firelight, excluded from the warmth of God’s love.  Remember what hopelessness felt like, and you won’t take for granted the life you’ve been given.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: Ephesians 2:11-22

Questions to ask:

1. How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
2. What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
3. How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
4. What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
5. How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul.  If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision

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