Pursuing Maturity

April 13, 2025

Ephesians 4:7-16

Study Questions

1. Who makes up the True Church? What does it mean to be justified by God’s grace through faith alone in Christ alone? (See Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 5:1.) Why is it important to emphasize the “alone” in these two phrases? (See John 14:6.)

2. Read Ephesians 4:7–12. What did Christ Jesus give His church and how is that manifested in the local church? Have you found or do you struggle with finding your unique purpose in the local church? Why/why not?

3. Why does Paul intentionally reference Psalm 68:18? What does it mean that Christ descended and ascended? From where to where? What did our Lord Jesus give to His church? (See also Acts 2:33.)

4. What are some tangible ways you can build up those who serve with their gifts in your local church? (See 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.)

5. Read Ephesians 4:12–16. What is the purpose and goal of the church? Identify and discuss the words or phrases that describe different stages of spiritual growth. According to this passage, define what spiritual maturity looks like in the Christian life? In the Church? (See also 2 Timothy 4:3-5; 1 Corinthians 3:1; Hebrews 5:12-13; Colossians 1:28; Philippians 3:12.)

6. Where would you place yourself in the journey to spiritual maturity?

7. According to verse 15, what does “speaking the truth in love” mean? Give examples.

8. In what ways have you been challenged from this study regarding the local church? In what ways are you thankful for your local church family?