Ephesians: The Love We Long For, Study Guide with Leader's Notes

by Scotty Smith

Am I loved? The central question of every human heart is answered with a resounding yes through this study of the Ephesians. Through an easily accessible, self-contained small group study each participant will grow in their understanding of the love of Christ, and the riches of his grace and how that love shapes every relationship and every interaction with others.

The small group guide includes twelve in-depth lessons that include discussion questions, a short article to read, and a practical application section that can be used for one-to-one discipleship, small group, or large group settings. Explore this resource and find the riches of grace, the out-working of the gospel into every part of life, and the knowledge and love of God you've been waiting for.

Ephesians: The Love We Long For offers Scripture-based, theologically rich content with an easy-to-follow structure to engage readers. Smith invites men and women to reflect of the God of the Bible by reading the book of Ephesians slowly.

He shares how the New Testament letter presents the love we all deeply long for-God's great love for us in Jesus.

In this guide, discover the implications of God's love for every aspect of your life and relationships. With rich discussion questions, practical application exercises and Scripture-based teaching, Smith helps readers see Jesus more clearly in the themes found in the book of Ephesians.

Genres: Collections

160 pages, Paperback

Published August 24, 2020

About the author

Scotty Smith is founding pastor of Christ Community Church (PCA) in Franklin, Tennessee. He is now teacher in residence at West End Community Church (PCA) in Nashville, a daughter church of CCC. Scotty also serves as an adjunct professor at five seminaries, including Covenant, Westminster, Redeemer, RTS Orlando, and Western Seminary in Portland. He is the author of several books, including Everyday Prayers, as well as Unveiled Hope with Michael Card and Speechless and Restoring Broken Things with Steven Curtis Chapman.

Reviews

[Ian]

I read this study along with Eugene Peterson's Practice Resurrection Book and Study Guide as I worked through Ephesians. Ephesians is the book that helps guide us in maturing in Christ as evidenced by a church that began with 12 people.

Smith's study is 12 lessons (nee chapters) long, 2 lessons per chapter of the epistle. There is no requirement for pre-work, nor really any homework which limits the study a little. There are a series of questions to reflect on as one reads through the verses, Smith provides a 1-2 page commentary of sorts and then another set of more in-depth exercises to work through as a group or individual.

It was good, just fairly basic and so long as one knows this from the outset then it meets expectations. Smith is a learned Biblical teacher and so there is plenty here really for everyone, more for those starting out in studying this magnificent Epistle.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from Audra Jennings as part of her association with the publisher. This has no bearing on my review.

[Annette]

My Thoughts:
What I love about the Ephesians study:
~A Gospel Glossary is included at the end of the book. Words like glorification and propitiation are sometimes unknown to new Christians. The glossary is not lengthy but beneficial.
~Leader’s Notes. These notes (over lessons 1-12) are not just for the leader in the study, but for people who are reading the book and want clarification and understanding. This is important additional teaching to clarify the “conversation sections.”
~Each of the 12 chapters have a lesson section, article to read, and exercise (questions). These are brief reading sections.
~I feel the Bible study is clear, concise, approachable, and reflective.
Source: I received a complimentary eBook copy from New Growth Press, I was not required to write a positive review.

[Wendy]

Part of an ongoing series of bible studies that emphasise gospel centred living. Intended for group use, they helpfully point the members towards honest reflection about how the gospel affects them and how change can be affected through God’s grace. In each lesson, the author has helpfully written an article and probing questions for application. However, the studies do not lead the reader into detailed exegesis, and so do not really help people to read and interpret the Bible for themselves.
(I received an ebook in exchange for an honest review)

[Loraena]

I co-taught Ephesians and found this to be a helpful resource. It’s a study guide, not a commentary, but Scotty Smith has helpful and thought-provoking insights.