Ephesians

Second Day: Read Ephesians 4:17-24, concentrating on verse 17.

1. a. After spending the first part of Ephesians 4 dealing with the nature of the church, spiritual gifts, and Christian maturity, Paul turns in verse 17 to the issue of living as a Christian in an unbelieving world. What does he say we must no longer do? (Ephesians 4:17b)

b. How does Paul express that this is critical for us to obey? (Ephesians 4:17a)

c. Challenge: Look up the word futile in the dictionary. Does this help you understand what Paul is saying?

2. The writer of the book of Ecclesiastes also expresses how futile life is, without God and His perspective. How does he express this futility in Ecclesiastes 1:2?

3. Read Ecclesiastes 1:12-18. The phrase “under the sun” refers to “this present world and the limits of what it offers.”² How thoroughly did “the Teacher” seek wisdom and knowledge “under the sun”? (verses 12-17)

4. What is the result of gaining wisdom and knowledge without the hope that God gives? (Ecclesiastes 1:18)?

5. Personal: What are some situations where you’ve felt sorrow or grief, or were overwhelmed by the futility of this world? What hope did God give you in the midst of that time?