Prepared by William Earnhardt, for Sabbath School Class on July 15, 2023.

Main Theme: We can experience the power and reality of Jesus’ transforming grace in our own lives.

Read in Class: Ephesians 1:15-23 and Ephesians 3:14-21. Define the common theme in these two prayer reports.

Study: What does it mean that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think? Do you see that power in your life? If not, why not?

Apply: Why is it important always to thank God in prayer for what you have to be thankful for?

Share: Your friend notices that Paul seems to be constantly praying for those he is reaching for Jesus. Your friend asks you how much you pray for those you are reaching for Jesus. What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: Ephesians 1:17-19. Define the main idea of this passage.

Study: Paul prays that the Holy Spirit will bring special insight to believers on what three topics?

Apply: How can you better experience “the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe”? What does this mean in daily life?

Share: Your friend asks, if God’s power is so great, why does it seem like evil is winning all over the world? What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: Ephesians 1:21, Ephesians 2:2, and Ephesians 6:12. Define the common thread in these passages.

Study: Why does Paul seem to be so interested in evil powers?

Apply: What are some present-day manifestations of these same evil forces, and how can we make sure that we don’t get caught up in any of them?

Share: Your friend asks if its possible to think we are fighting against each other when we are really fighting wicked spirits in high places? What do you tell your friend? What are some examples you can give?

Read in Class: Ephesians 1:22-23. Discuss the main idea of this passage.

Study: What benefits does the exaltation of Christ to the throne of the cosmos, and His rule over all things in heaven and on earth, provide for His church?

Apply: What has been your own experience with the power of prayer? That is, not just answered prayers but prayer in general, and how does prayer draw us closer to God and the power offered us in Jesus?

Share: Can you pray the prayer Paul prayed in Ephesians 3:14-21 for someone this week?