INTRODUCTION

This week we continue our series Rooted and Fruitful on the book of Ephesians and cover Ephesians 2:10 (ESV), “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should work in them.” As we have discovered our identity in Christ, and the riches of blessings we have as His children, we now turn to the assignments God has given us. A rubik’s cube is intricate and complex, but it’s also messed up and requires adjustments to be put in the right order. Similarly, we are fearfully and wonderfully made, but also marred by sin and requiring God’s hand to adjust us, creating the masterpiece He sees in us. Not only are we God’s masterpiece as individuals, but He is doing a work of restoration in the world, and calling us to work alongside Him as He creates His grand work of art in humanity.

DISCUSSION

1. Share with your group a new skill you have tried to master. What challenges did you face along the way? How did you feel when you achieved your desired proficiency?
2. Read 2 Timothy 2:21, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 and Colossians 1:10. Each of these verses gives a different perspective on good works. What do you learn?
3. Read Galatians 5:16-24.

   a. How does Paul describe the difference between works of the flesh and works of the Spirit?

   b. Do any of the works of the flesh listed surprise you for their inclusion in the list?

   c. If works of the flesh are broadly defined in verse 17 as anything against the Spirit, what works of the flesh do you struggle to resist?  (It may not be included in the list)

   d. What evidence of the Fruit of the Spirit have you seen in your life? What connection do you see between doing the good works God has prepared for you and the fruitfulness He has produced in you? 

4. Read Revelations 3:1 and Revelations 3:14-16.

   a. Why does God rebuke the churches at Sardis and Laodicea?

   b. Can you share any time when you have realised that you were falling into this condition of the heart?  How did God work in you to bring change? 

5. How would you define your assignment in Christ?
6. What challenges do you face when it comes to doing the good works God has called for you to do? What action could you take this week to start walking into the good works He’s called you to do? Share and pray with your group.

WHAT WILL YOU DO

As we continue to seek revival in our land, let’s pray for revival in our hearts. Where are we going through the motions, doing things just to tick the box? Let’s ask the Lord to awaken us to His purposes for our lives. If you are unsure about your Kingdom Assignment, start where you are – general obedience to God. What is God convicting you about to bring into alignment with His word? As you walk along this path, God will direct you towards His Kingdom Assignments – this is our specific obedience. Let’s join in God’s workmanship!

MEMORY VERSE

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should work in them. – Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)