Father of All

Father of All | Ephesians 4:6

Outline:

 I. Foundational Unity in the Trinity (Ephesians 4:4-6)

A. Shared body (v. 4) - Unity through the Spirit

B. Shared faith (v. 5) - Unity through the Son

C. Shared family (v. 6) - Unity through the Father

II. Understanding Our Father's Role (Ephesians 4:6)

A. Comfort in the Father's pleasure (v. 6a)

B. Comfort in the Father's place (v. 6b)

C. Comfort in the Father's providence (v. 6c)

D. Comfort in the Father's presence (v. 6d)

III. How Do These ‘Alls’ about God as Father Affect Your Life? (Ephesians 4:6)

A.   “In all”- we long for riches (v. 6d)

B.    “Through all” – we long for purpose (v. 6c)

C.    “Above all” – we long for security (v. 6b)

D.   “Of all”- we long to belong (v. 6a)

IV. Belonging in the Father’s Family

A. Allowing the Father's love to dispel fear (Romans 8:15)

B. The privilege of calling Him “Abba” (Mark 14:36; Galatians 4:4)

C. Our new status: from sinners to sonship (John 20:7)

D. The promise of a place in the Father's house (John 14:1-3)

Application:

1.    What did the Holy Spirit teach you from this passage?

2.    How does the concept of unity in the Trinity shape our understanding of Christian unity?

3.    In what ways does the analogy of God as a Father differ from the "school principal" analogy?

4.    Reflect on your view of the Gospel. Do you see it as a mere escape from punishment or an invitation into a new life of love and belonging?

5.    What does it mean to you personally that God takes pleasure in adopting you as His child?

6.    Consider the idea that God is "above all." How does His supremacy bring comfort and security to your life?

7.    In what areas of your life can you see God's providence at work, turning even challenging situations for good?

8.    How does the concept of calling God "Abba" impact your understanding of your relationship with Him?

9.    In moments of guilt or self-condemnation, how does the truth that God loves you as His child (not based on your performance) provide comfort?

10.         Reflect on the imagery of being welcomed by the Father with open arms. How does this influence your perspective on God's acceptance?