Series Title: Designed for Impact
Sermon Title: You Are God’s Masterpiece
Sermon Number: 1 of 6
Main Passages: Ephesians 2:8-10 & Psalm 139:13-16
Key Point: We are designed for impact because God has uniquely designed and purposed each of us for His glory.
Opening Prayer
Begin your study by inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your hearts and minds as you explore God’s Word together.
Reading the Scriptures
1. Read Ephesians 2:8-10 and Psalm 139:13-16 aloud.
- As the passages are read, listen for words or phrases that resonate with you.
- Note any initial thoughts or feelings that arise.
Observation and Interpretation
2. Exploring God’s Grace and Creation
- What do these passages reveal about God’s role in our lives?
- In Psalm 139:13-16, how does the psalmist describe God’s involvement in our creation?
- In Ephesians 2:8-9, what do we learn about how we are saved?
- How do these insights affect our understanding of God’s character?
- Discuss the significance of being “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14).
- Reflect on the meaning of being saved “by grace through faith” (Ephesians 2:8).
3. Understanding Our Identity and Purpose
- How do both passages define our identity as God’s masterpiece?
- What does it mean to be God’s “workmanship” or “masterpiece” (Ephesians 2:10)?
- How does knowing that God knit us together impact our sense of self-worth?
- What purpose does God have for us according to these scriptures?
- Explore the “good works” God has prepared for us to do (Ephesians 2:10).
- How does Psalm 139:16 suggest that our days are purposeful?
4. The Interplay of Grace and Works
- How do grace and good works relate in our lives?
- Why is it important that salvation is a gift and not earned (Ephesians 2:9)?
- In what ways are we called to respond to God’s grace through our actions?
Application
5. Embracing Our Unique Design
- In what ways does recognizing ourselves as God’s masterpiece affect our daily lives?
- How does this understanding influence our self-esteem and identity?
- Share practical steps we can take to honor God with how He has made us.
- How can we encourage others to see themselves as fearfully and wonderfully made?
- Discuss ways to build up those around us using this truth.
6. Living Out Our Purpose
- How can we discover and engage in the “good works” God has prepared for us?
- Identify personal gifts or passions that can be used for God’s glory.
- What opportunities do we have in our community to serve others?
- What might be hindering us from fully embracing our role as God’s masterpiece designed for impact?
- Discuss any fears, doubts, or external obstacles.
- How can we overcome these challenges?
7. Reflecting on Grace in Our Relationships
- How does understanding salvation as a gift influence our relationships with others?
- In what ways can we extend grace to others as God has to us?
- Share experiences where grace has transformed a relationship.
Discussion and Personal Reflection
8. Connecting Both Passages to Our Lives
- How do Ephesians 2:8-10 and Psalm 139:13-16 together enhance our understanding of being designed for impact?
- What common themes emerge about purpose and identity?
- How can we apply these themes in practical ways?
9. Personal Sharing
- Share a time when you felt that your unique gifts had an impact on others.
- What did you learn from that experience?
- How did it align with the idea of being created for good works?
- Reflect on areas where you sense God is calling you to make an impact.
- What steps can you take to move forward in this calling?
- How can the group support you in this journey?
Closing Prayer
Conclude your study by praying for one another:
- Ask God to deepen your understanding of His grace and purpose for your lives.
- Pray for the courage to live out your identity as His masterpiece.
- Seek guidance on how to impact others for His glory.
Note to Group Leaders: Encourage everyone to participate and share openly. Foster an environment of trust and support, reminding the group that each person’s insights and experiences are valuable.