SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1According to His Eternal Purpose

Ephesians 3:7-13

Key Verses 3:10-11

10His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1. Read verses 7-9. How did Paul become a "servant of this gospel"? Why did God call him as his servant? 

2. Read verses 10-11. Verse 10 talks about "his intent" and verse 11 mentions "his eternal purpose". What does "eternal" purpose mean? Why is it important (or necessary) to know: 1) His purpose (for you and me) (rather than your or my purpose); and 2) His purpose which is eternal? 

3. Think about the word "church" in verse 10. How is it related to the call to "preach" in verse 8? 

4. Verses 10-11 describe the contents of God's eternal purpose.

  (1) What does "the manifold wisdom of God" consist of? 

(2) Why would it be necessary for the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms to know it (the manifold wisdom of God)?

(3) Verse 11 says that God already accomplished his eternal purpose in Christ. When did he do that? 

5. Read verses 12-13 and think about the idea of mortal man approaching God. How was and is it (approaching God) made possible?