Who is Paul addressing in Ephesians 2:11–13?

Why does he specifically address the Gentiles in 11–13?

Do we have any divisions in our society that are anything like the division between Jews and Gentiles?

Do you agree or disagree with J.D. about there being only one category of people—sinners? How would you describe the human tendency to divide ourselves into groups?

What is Jesus called in Ephesians 2:14? In what way is that true?

What do verses 14–18, say that Jesus has done, or is doing?

What specifically has He “put to death” (v. 16), and how did He do it?

How do you feel about our new humanity? Does J.D.’s explanation make sense to you? Do you agree?

What is the architecture of the new temple in 2:19–22? What is it made of? What is it built on?

When Paul says, “You are no longer foreigners,” or “You too are being built together,” whom is he talking to?

LIVE IT OUT

Prayer: Ask God to show you how you can reach out to someone on the other side of a social “wall.” Begin praying specifically for individuals in your life who might not share your culture, circumstances, or beliefs.

Invite: All too often we assume that people know they can come to any church service they like. Maybe they don’t know this. And maybe
they’re waiting for an invitation.

Listen: Have a conversation with someone of another religion, or no religion at all. Ask them what they think about God, or faith, or forgiveness, or death, or morality. And listen. Do not use this as a trick to tell them what you think. If they ask, be ready. And feel free to ask follow-up questions, but the main point here is to listen to them.

Connect: Talk with your church leaders about setting up a joint worship service or Bible study with another church—preferably a church with people of another culture.

Draw: Re-read Ephesians 2:14–18 from a visual perspective. How would you draw the picture described in the verses? Be as literal or symbolic as you like, as you sketch out this powerful text.