Join us this week as we continue our sermon series “In Christ…” This week Mike discusses how Jesus’ resurrection and the cross challenge worldly powers. We also learn about prayer and the armor of God as vital tools for resisting spiritual forces. Watch or listen on our website, Youtube, or your favorite podcast app!
Small Group / Study Questions for “In Christ… We Have Authority.” Ephesians 1:18-23; 2:6
- Paul’s claim is that Jesus is seated in the heavenly realms far above all other rule and authority. On what basis does Jesus claim this position? (Hint: Read Philippians 2:5-11 and look for the “Therefore.” What is it there for?)
- When Paul speaks about “rulers, authorities, powers and dominions,” who, or what is he referring to? (See Ephesians 6:10ff, Ephesians 3:10).
- How does the cross reveal Jesus’ power over the powers?
- In what way does resurrection undermine the control of worldly powers? How does the hope of resurrection change our relationship to fear, threat, or loss?
- Living out of Christ’s Authority: You have been seated with him in the heavenly realms. Mike broke this down into 1) Your Position – Seated, not striving, 2) Your Posture – Serving, not seizing, and 3) Your Power – Standing, not shrinking (See Ephesians 6:10-18). Which of these stood out to you the most as something you need to change or implement this week in light of living “In Christ?”