Week 6
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California Baptist University *
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Religion
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Feb 20, 2024
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docx
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THE PROCLAIMED KINGDOM
DISCUSSION BOARD
Much of what the Apostle Paul’s letters articulate is concerned with soteriology, that is, the way in which sinners are saved by God. He is heavily dependent on Jesus’ teaching and writes boldly to clear up misconceptions among the early Church. One early misconception about salvation was that people could earn their way into God’s Kingdom either by lineage, ritual, or being a “good person.” Read Ephesians 2:1-10 and answer the following questions:
1.
How does this text describe the state of humans without a covenant relationship with God? Put Eph 2:1-3 in your own words. Is this a positive or negative description of the natural human condition?
2.
According to Eph 2:4-7, God changes everything. Reflect on this change that God orchestrates through Jesus. Focus on the verbs in these verses and provide some personal commentary on what is described.
3.
Take 10 minutes to think deeply and meditate on verses 8-9. Come back and answer these questions:
4.
According to this passage as a whole, can a person be good enough to earn God’s Kingdom?
5.
According to this passage as a whole, can a person do enough “work” to earn God’s Kingdom?
6.
According to this passage (especially 2:8-9), how are people saved?
1.
The passage describes the state of humans without a covenant relationship with God as spiritually dead due to trespasses and sins. People are portrayed as living according to the
ways of the world and following the influence of the devil. This is a decidedly negative description of the natural human condition, emphasizing separation from God and bondage to sin.
2.
This section illuminates the transformative work of God through Jesus. The verbs in these
verses - "made alive," "raised up," "seated," "show," "immeasurable riches," and "kindness" - underscore a radical shift. Personally, it signifies a profound change from a state of spiritual death and separation to being made alive in Christ. God's mercy and love
are highlighted, suggesting not only redemption but an elevation to a position of honor and closeness with God.
3.
Can a person be good enough to earn God’s Kingdom?
No, the passage explicitly states that salvation is "not a result of works" so that no one can boast. Being "good enough" is insufficient for salvation.
4.
Can a person do enough “work” to earn God’s Kingdom?
Again, the answer is no. The passage emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, not something achieved through personal efforts or deeds.
5.
How are people saved according to this passage (especially 2:8-9)?
People are saved by grace through faith, and this salvation is a gift from God. It is not based on human works, preventing any boasting. Faith is the means through which individuals receive God's grace, emphasizing a reliance on God's unmerited favor rather than personal achievements.
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