Who You Are, How You Live
A Study Guide for Living Out Your Identity in Christ
1. Introduction: A Letter to Strengthen the Church
Written by Paul from prison to the believers in Ephesus, a major city steeped in idolatry and spiritual confusion.
The letter divides into two main parts: Chapters 1–3 focus on what Christ has done for us; Chapters 4–6 focus on how we should live because of it.
Reflection: You don’t live for victory—you live from it, because of what Christ already accomplished.
2. Chosen, Sealed, and Blessed
Paul opens with a stunning declaration of spiritual blessings: chosen, adopted, redeemed, forgiven, sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:3–14).
He prays for the church to grasp the hope, riches, and power available in Christ (1:15–23).
Takeaway: Your worth isn’t based on your performance—it’s based on your position in Christ.
3. From Death to Life
Paul reminds them they were once dead in sin but made alive through God’s grace (Ephesians 2:1–10).
Salvation is by grace through faith—not works—so no one can boast.
Jew and Gentile are united as one new people in Christ (2:11–22).
Truth: You were saved by grace, through faith, for good works—not by earning, but for purpose.
4. The Mystery Revealed
Paul explains the mystery now revealed: Gentiles are fellow heirs in Christ (Ephesians 3).
He shares his calling to preach this truth and prays for the church to be rooted in love and filled with the fullness of God (3:14–21).
Encouragement: You’re part of something bigger than yourself—God’s eternal plan to redeem and unite all people in Christ.
5. Walk Worthy of the Calling
Now the tone shifts: Paul urges believers to live out their new identity (Ephesians 4:1).
Unity, humility, spiritual growth, and putting off the old self are emphasized (4:1–32).
Words, attitudes, and actions should reflect Christ, not the world.
Lesson: God changes your heart, then calls you to cooperate in changing your habits.
6. Walk in Love and Light
Paul continues with a call to imitate God by walking in love (Ephesians 5:1–2).
Sexual immorality, greed, and impurity have no place among God’s people (5:3–14).
Wisdom, thankfulness, and Spirit-filled living define the Christian walk.
Challenge: Don’t blend in with darkness—shine with light that comes from knowing Christ.
7. Christ-Centered Relationships
Paul outlines how the gospel reshapes relationships:
Wives and husbands (5:22–33)
Children and parents (6:1–4)
Servants and masters (6:5–9)
Marriage is a picture of Christ and the church—marked by love, sacrifice, and mutual respect.
Reminder: The way you treat people is a reflection of the gospel you believe.
8. The Armor of God
The final chapter calls believers to stand strong against spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10–20).
Paul lists the armor of God: truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, the Word, and prayer.
Victory is possible—but not without vigilance and spiritual preparedness.
Warning: The Christian life is a battle. Don’t fight unarmed.
9. Key Verses to Memorize or Meditate On
Ephesians 1:4 – “He chose us in him before the foundation of the world…”
Ephesians 2:8–9 – “For by grace you have been saved through faith…”
Ephesians 3:20 – “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly…”
Ephesians 4:1 – “Walk in a manner worthy of the calling…”
Ephesians 6:11 – “Put on the whole armor of God…”
10. Questions for Discussion or Journaling
What truths from chapters 1–2 stand out about your identity in Christ?
How does Paul describe the purpose of salvation beyond just being saved?
In what areas do you need to grow in walking worthy of your calling?
What changes when we view relationships through the lens of Christ’s love?
Which piece of spiritual armor do you struggle to “wear” consistently?
How can you stand strong in today’s spiritual battles?