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Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ
This insightful Bible study uses the example of Paul’s church in Ephesus to show readers how they can be victorious Christians, living in God’s Word, and free from sin. SERIES
Since 2007, Sue Edwards's Bible studies have encouraged and equipped women with meaningful devotion, biblical principles, and timeless life lessons. Now with the series relaunch, Sue has revised and updated six of her studies and is offering a brand new study on Revelation. Reorganized to facilitate either individual or group use, each study maintains their original lessons and questions but now also offers inspirational sidebars and short, 3-5 minute supplemental videos. Scan the video QR code with a smart phone or visit the series Web site to watch Sue provide historical and cultural background, teach important truths found in each week's lesson, or ask thoughtful questions to encourage deeper discussion. Each edition has also been repackaged with new covers and a smaller trim size to make the Discover Together Bible Study Series more inviting and accessible to readers.
Since 2007, Sue Edwards's Bible studies have encouraged and equipped women with meaningful devotion, biblical principles, and timeless life lessons. Now with the series relaunch, Sue has revised and updated six of her studies and is offering a brand new study on Revelation. Reorganized to facilitate either individual or group use, each study maintains their original lessons and questions but now also offers inspirational sidebars and short, 3-5 minute supplemental videos. Scan the video QR code with a smart phone or visit the series Web site to watch Sue provide historical and cultural background, teach important truths found in each week's lesson, or ask thoughtful questions to encourage deeper discussion. Each edition has also been repackaged with new covers and a smaller trim size to make the Discover Together Bible Study Series more inviting and accessible to readers.
- GenresNonfiction
128 pages, Paperback
First published October 3, 2007
1 person is currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Sue Edwards
52 books11 followersI am an assistant professor of Christian education at Dallas Theological Seminary, specializing in Women's Studies. I also love to write as a way to share my love for people and God's Word. I have authored 6 books with two more in the works. Each book is a tool to help women and men sharpen their ministry skills and serve others more effectively."
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
November 19, 2013
If you are a leader in your church, if you are a pastor of a church, if you are one of the women's leaders in your church, then you need to check out this Bible study by Sue Edwards. I've preached through the book of Ephesians (I walked our church slowly through this letter by the Apostle Paul; it took nearly two years) and I think I can say this is one of the best study guides on this book I've come across.
Ephesians: DYI&PIC is geared for women. It's geared for women at many levels of spiritual maturity. Anyone going through this study can go as deep as they feel lead. The leader of a bible study using this guide can help each of the participants to discover Ephesians, but also dig deeper and harder should they need or want to. The 'extras' a student of this book can find online are many: from videos to other's comments and more. If the participants have a smart phone or a tablet device, they can scan in the QR codes and learn even more. This is, truly, a multipurpose type study guide.
I was also delighted at the accuracy and doctrine clarity presented in this study guide. I've seen women's study books, especially, gloss over anything too deep doctrinally because the publishers/authors think women don't want to/need to 'go deep'. Well, you just can't do this with Ephesians; period! And Sue Edwards does a wonderful job of 'whetting one's appetite' to eat up some well-served steak in nicely bite-sized pieces.
My hope is to see the women's Bible studies at Cornerstone EFC use this soon. I highly commend it to you.
Ephesians: DYI&PIC is geared for women. It's geared for women at many levels of spiritual maturity. Anyone going through this study can go as deep as they feel lead. The leader of a bible study using this guide can help each of the participants to discover Ephesians, but also dig deeper and harder should they need or want to. The 'extras' a student of this book can find online are many: from videos to other's comments and more. If the participants have a smart phone or a tablet device, they can scan in the QR codes and learn even more. This is, truly, a multipurpose type study guide.
I was also delighted at the accuracy and doctrine clarity presented in this study guide. I've seen women's study books, especially, gloss over anything too deep doctrinally because the publishers/authors think women don't want to/need to 'go deep'. Well, you just can't do this with Ephesians; period! And Sue Edwards does a wonderful job of 'whetting one's appetite' to eat up some well-served steak in nicely bite-sized pieces.
My hope is to see the women's Bible studies at Cornerstone EFC use this soon. I highly commend it to you.
May 12, 2011
Of the handful of studies I've ever done, this is probably the worst. While some of the author's questions generated some good conversation, others were completely irrelevant: "How do you think Paul felt when...?" The author also used leading questions that lead to an inaccurate interpretation of the text. For example, the author implies that the "mystery" mentioned in 1:9 is eschatological in nature, when in fact Paul clearly explains that this mystery is "that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus" (3:6). Overall, not impressed; there are better studies of Ephesians out there.
January 5, 2018
I realized recently that I have been working through this study for the entire year of 2017!
Sue Edwards is an astute woman with a great sense of what God is teaching in the Bible. The study was not just yes/no, but thoughtful and engaging. Would be great as a group study, but also was fine individually. Sue's videos (included in the book by scanning on a mobile device) were a bit dry, but helpful.
I learned a lot about myself and God through this study, and I recommend it to others.
Sue Edwards is an astute woman with a great sense of what God is teaching in the Bible. The study was not just yes/no, but thoughtful and engaging. Would be great as a group study, but also was fine individually. Sue's videos (included in the book by scanning on a mobile device) were a bit dry, but helpful.
I learned a lot about myself and God through this study, and I recommend it to others.
December 4, 2023
Great study with our Ladies Bible study group. Loved the video clip qr codes, a nice bonus that encouraged some of our non techie ladies to take a baby step. We had lively discussions and edification
November 17, 2025
I struggled with this study…definitely appreciated the group discussions the most.
April 18, 2013
Sue Edwards in her new book “Ephesians” A Discover Together Bible Study published by Kregel Publications helps us Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ.
From the back cover: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ.
We live in a culture attracted to the supernatural. Psychics are interviewed on nightly news shows. Movie stars describe themselves as “spiritual” but not “religious”. Popular TV shows and movies feature decidedly unbiblical supernatural themes. How do we live well when we are surrounded by these dark forces?
Join Sue Edwards on this inductive study of The Bible’s spiritual warfare manual. As she digs into Ephesians, Sue will show you profound truths that will help you sit with Christ, walk a worthy life, and take a stand against any force that threatens your relationship with the Savior.
Sue Edwards’ book is not an in-depth analysis of the whole book. Rather “Ephesians” is nine studies focusing on the main topics Paul presented and are designed to provide a better understanding of just what the book is all about. By looking at what Paul had to say to the believers at Ephesus we can apply what he was teaching them to our lives today. It is worth the time to sit and study this book and Sue Edwards has given us a marvelous tool in this study book. I recommend this book highly.
“Ephesians” Online Bible Study! Join today.
Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose for Christ.
Join the online Bible study (4/15 -5/7) with Sue Edwards! And invite your friends to join you.
Between April 15 – June 17 Sue Edwards will be posting weekly on the Year of Discovery Facebook Page and interacting with groups and individuals around the country going through the study at the same time. Women will be able to discuss the study with each other and ask questions via Facebook.
Completing each lesson requires about one-and-a-half hours. Readers still receive in-depth Bible study but with a minimum time commitment. For those who desire a more thorough study, including an opportunity to learn more about the history, culture and geography related to the Bible, Edwards has provided “Digging Deeper” questions. Answering these questions may require outside resources such as an atlas, Bible dictionary or concordance and challenge readers to examine complex theological issues and differing views more closely.
More about the Ephesians study: This insightful Bible study uses the example of Paul’s church in Ephesus to show readers how they can be victorious Christians, living in God’s Word, and free from sin. Part of the discovery series, the Ephesians edition includes tips for either individual or group use, inspirational sidebars and short, 3-5 minute teaching videos.
Purchase a copy of Ephesians and join the on-line Bible study today.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ.
We live in a culture attracted to the supernatural. Psychics are interviewed on nightly news shows. Movie stars describe themselves as “spiritual” but not “religious”. Popular TV shows and movies feature decidedly unbiblical supernatural themes. How do we live well when we are surrounded by these dark forces?
Join Sue Edwards on this inductive study of The Bible’s spiritual warfare manual. As she digs into Ephesians, Sue will show you profound truths that will help you sit with Christ, walk a worthy life, and take a stand against any force that threatens your relationship with the Savior.
Sue Edwards’ book is not an in-depth analysis of the whole book. Rather “Ephesians” is nine studies focusing on the main topics Paul presented and are designed to provide a better understanding of just what the book is all about. By looking at what Paul had to say to the believers at Ephesus we can apply what he was teaching them to our lives today. It is worth the time to sit and study this book and Sue Edwards has given us a marvelous tool in this study book. I recommend this book highly.
“Ephesians” Online Bible Study! Join today.
Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose for Christ.
Join the online Bible study (4/15 -5/7) with Sue Edwards! And invite your friends to join you.
Between April 15 – June 17 Sue Edwards will be posting weekly on the Year of Discovery Facebook Page and interacting with groups and individuals around the country going through the study at the same time. Women will be able to discuss the study with each other and ask questions via Facebook.
Completing each lesson requires about one-and-a-half hours. Readers still receive in-depth Bible study but with a minimum time commitment. For those who desire a more thorough study, including an opportunity to learn more about the history, culture and geography related to the Bible, Edwards has provided “Digging Deeper” questions. Answering these questions may require outside resources such as an atlas, Bible dictionary or concordance and challenge readers to examine complex theological issues and differing views more closely.
More about the Ephesians study: This insightful Bible study uses the example of Paul’s church in Ephesus to show readers how they can be victorious Christians, living in God’s Word, and free from sin. Part of the discovery series, the Ephesians edition includes tips for either individual or group use, inspirational sidebars and short, 3-5 minute teaching videos.
Purchase a copy of Ephesians and join the on-line Bible study today.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
April 29, 2013
Ephesians is an amazing book of the bible to study and as I went through, Sue Edwards bible study book, "Ephesians:Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ", I found this is book really makes a good introduction to the beginning basics of Ephesians, although it doesn't go in depth as many other bible studies usually go.
Divided into 9 lessons, there is some overview that is provided by J. Vernon McGee, J. I. Packer, Klyne Snodgrass, John Stott, and others along with a look into Greek words, but if you are looking for a really more deeper study of the book of Ephesians....I highly recommend using this more of a starter point than anything else.
A thin, notebook format, with plenty of space to share personal thoughts and insights, with guided questions, this is a very user friendly bible study for beginners or those who are just starting a women's bible study group and needed a way to guide oneself through leading a study.
This isn't to say that there wasn't an opportunity given for digging deeper as Sue does offer, “Digging Deeper” questions as well as, other methods , for those looking for a more serious study, or may find themselves in need of resources, such as the Logos software, access to the online bible study tools, or even a good commentary, along with a few other much needed resources, this shouldn't be a big deal.
Set up to be a tiered bible study, where the individual can work through this study at a time frame that is suitable for them, I can see someone who is a busy working mom, at home or away from the home, finding this to be a handy resource, but for those who look for more "meatier" bible studies, either for personal or group study, I highly suggest taking the time to looking at not only the additional suggestions that the author has provided, but this book can be, for some, a good complement to additional material that maybe on hand, for use for study, be it group or individual.
I like how some of the lessons were titled such as:
"Learn to Sit" and the "Tripping Over Your Tongue? Talk Your Walk?" which not only sums up the lesson "of the day" or "hour" or however one has structured their bible study, but immediately grabs the attention of the reader to the point of that moments lesson.
Overall, this is a nice book to have when one needs a flexible bible study that they can structure to fit their current life circumstances.
Thank you to Litfuse Publicity Group and Kregel Publications for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Divided into 9 lessons, there is some overview that is provided by J. Vernon McGee, J. I. Packer, Klyne Snodgrass, John Stott, and others along with a look into Greek words, but if you are looking for a really more deeper study of the book of Ephesians....I highly recommend using this more of a starter point than anything else.
A thin, notebook format, with plenty of space to share personal thoughts and insights, with guided questions, this is a very user friendly bible study for beginners or those who are just starting a women's bible study group and needed a way to guide oneself through leading a study.
This isn't to say that there wasn't an opportunity given for digging deeper as Sue does offer, “Digging Deeper” questions as well as, other methods , for those looking for a more serious study, or may find themselves in need of resources, such as the Logos software, access to the online bible study tools, or even a good commentary, along with a few other much needed resources, this shouldn't be a big deal.
Set up to be a tiered bible study, where the individual can work through this study at a time frame that is suitable for them, I can see someone who is a busy working mom, at home or away from the home, finding this to be a handy resource, but for those who look for more "meatier" bible studies, either for personal or group study, I highly suggest taking the time to looking at not only the additional suggestions that the author has provided, but this book can be, for some, a good complement to additional material that maybe on hand, for use for study, be it group or individual.
I like how some of the lessons were titled such as:
"Learn to Sit" and the "Tripping Over Your Tongue? Talk Your Walk?" which not only sums up the lesson "of the day" or "hour" or however one has structured their bible study, but immediately grabs the attention of the reader to the point of that moments lesson.
Overall, this is a nice book to have when one needs a flexible bible study that they can structure to fit their current life circumstances.
Thank you to Litfuse Publicity Group and Kregel Publications for the opportunity to read and review this book!
April 27, 2013
This year, I am studying the biblical book of Ephesians during my private devotional time, so it is with great anticipation that I agreed to review Ephesians – Discovering Your Identity and Purpose In Christ by Sue Edwards.
Like her earlier bible study, Revelation, the book did not disappoint.
The purpose of Sue’s Ephesians bible study is to help us understand who we are in Jesus Christ and what purpose God created each of us for during our time on earth. As Sue walks us through Ephesians, several themes emerge:
- The spiritual battles that occur as we are transformed from our old lives into our new ones.
- Our position in Christ, as we learn to sit, walk and stand in Him.
- The ways we are called to love one another and exercise our spiritual gifts in love.
In many ways, this study serves as a practical manual for daily living.
Here are a few of the questions Sue asks during the study:
- We talk about prayer, but do we really pray?
- Why is it so important that you learn to handle your anger appropriately?
- What happens when you don’t control your tongue?
Ephesians – Discovering Your Identity and Purpose In Christ is part of the Discover Together Bible Study Series from Kregel Publications – a group of Inductive Bible studies that are designed for both individual and group use.
One of the nice things about this study – and the other studies in this series – is that its tiered approach allows you to customize the study based on your needs.
If your time schedule is limited, you can complete the basic series of questions in about 60 to 90 minutes. If you want to dig deeper, you will find additional research questions that will require you to explore external resources for a more enriching experience.
You can also gain access to additional study materials, such as videos and the leader’s guide, by scanning the QR codes throughout the book!
If you are looking for a practical bible study that emphasizes the fundamentals of Christian living, Sue’s Ephesians study is a good place to start.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher to review. I was not compensated or required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Like her earlier bible study, Revelation, the book did not disappoint.
The purpose of Sue’s Ephesians bible study is to help us understand who we are in Jesus Christ and what purpose God created each of us for during our time on earth. As Sue walks us through Ephesians, several themes emerge:
- The spiritual battles that occur as we are transformed from our old lives into our new ones.
- Our position in Christ, as we learn to sit, walk and stand in Him.
- The ways we are called to love one another and exercise our spiritual gifts in love.
In many ways, this study serves as a practical manual for daily living.
Here are a few of the questions Sue asks during the study:
- We talk about prayer, but do we really pray?
- Why is it so important that you learn to handle your anger appropriately?
- What happens when you don’t control your tongue?
Ephesians – Discovering Your Identity and Purpose In Christ is part of the Discover Together Bible Study Series from Kregel Publications – a group of Inductive Bible studies that are designed for both individual and group use.
One of the nice things about this study – and the other studies in this series – is that its tiered approach allows you to customize the study based on your needs.
If your time schedule is limited, you can complete the basic series of questions in about 60 to 90 minutes. If you want to dig deeper, you will find additional research questions that will require you to explore external resources for a more enriching experience.
You can also gain access to additional study materials, such as videos and the leader’s guide, by scanning the QR codes throughout the book!
If you are looking for a practical bible study that emphasizes the fundamentals of Christian living, Sue’s Ephesians study is a good place to start.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher to review. I was not compensated or required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
April 19, 2013
On the back cover of the Bible study book the author mentions that many people are attracted to the paranormal and occult. I agree to her conclusion. I'm seeing more and more books come my way for review both from the Christian and non- Christian genre. I wonder why? I believe it is because these subjects are prickly with a sorta mysterious excitement for the reader. Although I believe, that if a person builds up enough tolerance to these things, then it could lead a person to possibly be desensitized, thinking these issues are not that bad.
My focus as a Christian is that I must know what the Bible says regarding Spiritual warfare, those dark forces that are always looking for a way into my mind, in order to entice me and deceive me and tempt me.
I must know God's Word: by reading, studying, and memorizing.
"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing, raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete." 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NASB
My Thoughts:
Discovering Together Bible Study on Ephesians is divided into 9 lessons.
Included, is beginning chapters on "How to Get the Most Out of a Discover Together Bible Study", and "Why Study Ephesians?"
What I loved about the Ephesians Bible study:
The study is clear and understandable.
Greek key words are studied.
Brief commentary comments from J. Vernon McGee, J. I. Packer, Klyne Snodgrass, John Stott, and others are given.
A choice of study--for beginning students, or for advanced.
Questions that lead me to ponder my own standing before God. Another words am I where God would have me to be, both in my thinking, words, actions, dreams, and goals?
Thank you to Litfuse Publicity Group and Kregel Publications for my FREE review copy!
My focus as a Christian is that I must know what the Bible says regarding Spiritual warfare, those dark forces that are always looking for a way into my mind, in order to entice me and deceive me and tempt me.
I must know God's Word: by reading, studying, and memorizing.
"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing, raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete." 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NASB
My Thoughts:
Discovering Together Bible Study on Ephesians is divided into 9 lessons.
Included, is beginning chapters on "How to Get the Most Out of a Discover Together Bible Study", and "Why Study Ephesians?"
What I loved about the Ephesians Bible study:
The study is clear and understandable.
Greek key words are studied.
Brief commentary comments from J. Vernon McGee, J. I. Packer, Klyne Snodgrass, John Stott, and others are given.
A choice of study--for beginning students, or for advanced.
Questions that lead me to ponder my own standing before God. Another words am I where God would have me to be, both in my thinking, words, actions, dreams, and goals?
Thank you to Litfuse Publicity Group and Kregel Publications for my FREE review copy!
August 8, 2015
The book of Ephesians is fantastic, and I've learned so much by doing this study. I read this book for a women's Bible study. I found that the book was a great companion for our study. Many of the questions in the book are quite rhetorical, and this can be frustrating at times. However, the quotes in the margins that include fantastic insights from other theologians are quite priceless.
June 3, 2010
This wasn't my favorite study but it wasn't my least favorite either.
Read
May 15, 2017I learned a lot about God's power and my position through this study. I loved it; and will definitely revisit this bible study in the future.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews