Sermon Summary
Text: Ephesians 2:11–22
Big idea: Jesus Himself is our peace — and by His blood He brings the far off near and makes one new people.
1) Remember what was true of you apart from Christ
Paul begins with a command: remember (vv. 11–12). Apart from Christ, we were separated, outside God’s promises, without hope, and without God in the world.
This remembrance isn’t meant to produce shame, but gratitude and humility as we consider what God has done for us.
2) “But now” — we’ve been brought near by the blood of Christ
The turning point is simple and stunning: “But now in Christ Jesus…” (v. 13). Those who were far off have been brought near by Jesus’ blood.
Paul emphasizes not our effort, but Christ’s cross as the decisive act that changes our standing before God.
3) Jesus doesn’t just give peace — He is our peace
Paul says, “He Himself is our peace” (v. 14). Through the cross, Jesus breaks down hostility: vertically between sinners and God, and horizontally between people.
In Christ, there is one new humanity, reconciled to God in one body, with hostility put to death.
4) From strangers to family — from outsiders to a dwelling place for God
Because of Jesus, believers are no longer strangers and aliens, but fellow citizens and members of God’s household (vv. 19–22).
We are being built together on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone, growing into a holy temple where God dwells by His Spirit.
Reflection Questions
- What does it look like for you to regularly remember who you were apart from Christ—and let that fuel gratitude?
- Where do you need to live more consistently in the peace Jesus has secured with other believers?
- How can you pursue deeper life in God’s household this week (belonging, serving, forgiving, building up)?
We’re praying that we would be a church that remembers God’s mercy, lives in Christ’s peace, and grows together as a dwelling place for God.
Life Group Leader Guide
Text: Ephesians 2:11–22
Big Idea: Jesus Himself is our peace — and by His blood He brings the far off near and makes one new people.
Purpose of This Discussion
This week’s discussion is meant to help group members remember who they were apart from Christ,
rejoice in the peace Jesus has secured, and consider what it looks like to live as members of
God’s household and dwelling place. Aim for honest reflection, gospel-centered encouragement,
and practical application.
Icebreaker (5 minutes)
When you think of the word peace, what comes to mind first — a feeling, a relationship, or a situation?
Why do you think peace is so hard to maintain?
Read the Passage Together
Read Ephesians 2:11–22 aloud. If time allows, invite two different people to read the passage to help
the group hear it fresh.
Discussion Questions
-
Paul begins with a command to remember (vv. 11–12). Why do you think remembering life apart from Christ
is important for believers today? -
In verses 11–12, Paul describes people as “separated,” “without hope,” and “without God.”
How does this shape the way we think about people who don’t yet follow Jesus? -
Verse 13 says we have been brought near “by the blood of Christ.” Why is it significant that Paul emphasizes
Jesus’ death here rather than our effort or performance? -
Paul says, “He Himself is our peace” (v. 14). How is that different from thinking of peace as merely a feeling
or a circumstance? -
According to verses 19–22, what images does Paul use to describe who we are now in Christ?
Which of these images stands out to you most, and why?
Application Questions
-
Where do you find it hardest to live in the peace Jesus has already secured — with God, within yourself,
or with other people? -
What would it look like this week to live more intentionally as a member of God’s household
(belonging, serving, forgiving, or building others up)? -
Is there someone in your life who still feels “far off”? How can your group pray for them
and pursue them with humility and love?
Leader Tips
- Keep the focus on what Christ has done, not on self-improvement or moral performance.
- Be attentive to relational dynamics in the group — this passage directly addresses unity and peace.
- If tension or disagreement surfaces, gently remind the group: Jesus Himself is our peace.
Prayer Focus
Spend time thanking God for bringing us near through the blood of Christ.
Pray for deeper unity, humility, and peace within your group and within the church,
and ask God to help you live as a dwelling place for His Spirit.