The Secret to an Empowered Life Discussion Guide
Summary
Pastor Adrian delivered a powerful message on 'The Secret of An Empowered Life' from Ephesians 1:15-23. He emphasized that Christians are called to live differently from the world, not settling for temporary pleasures or worldly pursuits. Drawing from Paul's prayer for the Ephesian church, Adrian outlined three key revelations that unlock an empowered Christian life: understanding the hope of Christ's calling to a greater life, recognizing that we are treasured as God's inheritance, and knowing that we are empowered by the Holy Spirit. The message challenged believers to move beyond comfortable Christianity and step into the supernatural, Spirit-empowered life that God has designed for His church.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together in this small group, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to speak to us today. Help us to be humble and teachable, ready to hear Your voice through Your Word and through one another. Holy Spirit, we invite You to be present with us, to guide our discussion, and to reveal fresh insights about living the empowered life You've called us to. May we leave this time encouraged, challenged, and more equipped to walk in the fullness of who You've made us to be. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What's one thing you've had to learn how to do that required someone else to teach you or guide you through the process?
Key Verses
Ephesians 1:15-23 NLT
Ephesians 1:18-19 NKJV
Acts 1:8
Philippians 4:13
Romans 8: 19-22
Questions
Pastor Adrian mentioned that many people pursue things like careers, relationships, or experiences thinking they'll bring happiness. What are some things you've seen people (or yourself) pursue hoping they would bring fulfillment?
What does it mean to you personally that you are 'called to a greater life through Christ'? How does this calling differ from what the world offers?
The message emphasized that we are God's 'inheritance' - that He treasures us. How does knowing you are treasured by God change the way you see yourself and interact with others?
Pastor Adrian shared that we never 'graduate' from needing the Holy Spirit - we're always on our 'L plates' spiritually. Why do you think it's important to maintain this dependence on God rather than trying to do things in our own strength?
The three keys to an empowered life are: knowing the hope of His calling, knowing we're treasured by the Father, and knowing we're empowered by the Holy Spirit. Which of these three do you struggle most to believe or live out?
How can understanding these three truths change the way we approach challenges, relationships, or opportunities in our daily lives?
Pastor Adrian mentioned that the church is not peripheral to the world, but rather the world is peripheral to the church. What do you think this means, and how should this perspective impact how we live?
What are some practical ways we can 'step on the accelerator' and live more boldly in the power of the Holy Spirit rather than sitting in the spiritual driveway?
Life Application
This week, choose one area of your life where you've been operating in your own strength or settling for less than God's best. Each day, intentionally remind yourself of the three truths: you are called to a greater life, you are treasured by the Father, and you are empowered by the Holy Spirit. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in that specific area and take one step of faith, trusting in His power rather than your own abilities.
Key Takeaways
Christians are called to live a greater life through Christ that surpasses anything the world can offer
We are treasured by God as His inheritance - not because of what we do, but because of who we are in Him
The Holy Spirit empowers us with God's own power (dunamis), but we must step out in faith and 'drive the car' while He guides us
The church is central to God's plan, not peripheral - we are the body of Christ filled with His presence and power
Living an empowered life requires revelation and enlightenment of these truths, not just head knowledge
Ending Prayer
Father God, thank You for the incredible truths we've discussed today. Help us to truly grasp that we are called to a greater life, that we are treasured as Your inheritance, and that we are empowered by Your Holy Spirit. Lord, we don't want to just know these things in our minds, but we ask for revelation in our hearts. Give us the courage to step out in faith, to live boldly for You, and to impact the world around us with Your love and power. Holy Spirit, continue to work in each of our lives this week, transforming us from the inside out. May we be a people who live in the fullness of who You've called us to be. In Jesus' mighty name we pray, Amen.