Week One

What kind of God do we serve?

Answer: A God who delights in his children. A God who is holy and approachable. A God whose power is based on love.

During week 1 we have drawn out attributes of God’s character that allow us to encounter his nature and see it reflected in the life and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth. Knowing the God we serve allows us to be confident that we can have a relationship with our creator and redeemer. Calvin in the opening paragraph of his Institutes suggests to know ourselves we must first have knowledge of God. In our studies this week we are suggesting — when we realise the nature of God we may be surprised at the power we have to be agents of change all around the world.

SEEDS TO SOW: IF THE SEAL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT WAS A PHYSICAL SEAL, WHAT WOULD IT LOOK LIKE? (See Ephesians 1: 13) *

Read Ephesians 1: 3-9

God’s Pleasure. God’s pleasure and delight is all encompassing. The concept of the Trinity is built

around the pleasure of God. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit all delight in one another.

Discuss: Seeing as we are made in the image of God — what would it mean to delight more in each other?

Read Ephesians 1: 4

God’s Holiness. What is the connection between God’s glory and our lives of holiness? Check

out: 1 Peter 1: 16.
Discuss among friends or reflect upon this yourself.

Read Ephesians 1: 17-23

God’s power is based on Love. It was the power of love — God’s love — that raised Jesus from the dead. Take time to read these verses over a few times. Discuss the reason why Paul prays for the Spirit of wisdom and revelation to be given to the church at Ephesus and by implication all Christians.

* SEEDS TO SOW: These are open-ended and optional prompts and are designed for people wanting to develop their own resources in response to the themes. Perhaps if you are using this material as a group you could use these prompts to inspire a time of prayer, or drawing, or creative writing? They are a short and sweet, simply a starting off place for you and your imagination. Tailor and develop as suits your group.