How does understanding Ephesians 3:2 impact your role in the church community? The verse in focus “Surely you have heard about the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you.” – Ephesians 3:2 What Paul models • God entrusts grace as a stewardship, not a private possession • The purpose is outward: “for you” – benefiting others in the body • Stewardship implies accountability (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:1–2) Your role in light of this stewardship • You are a recipient-turned-steward of grace, meant to pass it on • Your spiritual gifts are tools for dispensing that grace (Romans 12:6–8) • Personal preferences yield to the mission of serving the whole church • Ministry is not optional; it is the logical outcome of grace received How this shapes day-to-day life in the congregation 1. Look for needs, then meet them with the resources God placed in your hands 2. Speak the gospel clearly to outsiders and to fellow believers (2 Corinthians 5:18–20) 3. Practice hospitality and generosity as visible expressions of stewardship (1 Peter 4:10) 4. View church gatherings as opportunities to give, not merely consume 5. Submit your plans to leadership and collaborate, just as Paul worked with local churches (Acts 20:17–21) Benefits to the church community • Unity: everyone serves under the same grace, removing rivalry • Growth: needs get met, people mature, the gospel advances • Joy: giving produces blessing for both giver and receiver (Acts 20:35) Living it out this week • Identify one grace-gift you possess and deploy it deliberately for someone else’s good • Set aside time to pray for and encourage a church member you rarely speak to • Review your calendar and budget, ensuring space and funds exist for kingdom service • Share a testimony of God’s grace with at least one person, pointing glory back to Him Final reminder Grace received is grace assigned; the more deeply you grasp your stewardship, the more eagerly you will serve, love, and build up Christ’s body. |
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