BIG POINT: Spiritual begins with spiritual .
Paul prayed for believers to see four things:
1. See the
Biblical hope is a settled, life-forming certainty rooted in God’s promises, even though it hasn’t happened yet.
2. See the
3. See the
4. See the of Jesus.
NOTES:
QUESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY
Read Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:15-23 and discuss:
• Paul prays for “the eyes of your hearts to be enlightened.” What do
you think it means to have spiritual sight? How is that different from
simply knowing information about God?
• Why do you think Paul prays for clarity and spiritual vision instead of
changed circumstances? How does that challenge the way we often
pray?
• The message defined biblical hope as “a settled, life-forming
certainty rooted in God’s promises.” Where do you most need that kind
of hope right now?
• Paul says believers are God’s “glorious inheritance.” How does that
idea challenge the way we usually think about our worth or value?
• Which tends to shape your identity more: how God sees you or how
you see yourself? What gets in the way of seeing yourself the way God
does?
• Paul ties God’s power directly to the resurrection of Jesus. Where in
your life do you need resurrection power? What are some areas of life
where things feel stuck, broken, or exhausted?
• The message contrasted willpower with God’s power. Where are you
most tempted to rely on effort instead of trusting God’s power at work
in you?
• Paul ends the prayer by pointing to Jesus’ ultimate authority and the
role of the church. How does seeing Jesus as fully in control change
the way you think about your purpose or calling?
PERSONAL REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
• Reflection: If spiritual growth begins with spiritual sight, what might
God want to help you see more clearly right now about Himself, about
you, or about your life?
• Application: Pray Ephesians 1:15–23 once a day this week, slowly
and personally. As you pray, ask God specifically to help you see the
hope you’re called to; see the value He places on you; see the power at
work within you; and see the authority of Jesus over your life.