◄ Ephesians 2 ►
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Alive with Christ (Colossians 2:6–23) 1And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 2in which you used to walk when you conformed to the ways of this world and of the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit who is now at work in the sons of disobedience. 3All of us also lived among them at one time, fulfilling the cravings of our flesh and indulging its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature children of wrath. 4But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses. It is by grace you have been saved! 6And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7in order that in the coming ages He might display the surpassing riches of His grace, demonstrated by His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.a One in Christ (Philippians 2:1–4) 11Therefore remember that formerly you who are Gentiles in the flesh and called uncircumcised by the so-called circumcision (that done in the body by human hands)— 12remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. 13But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. 14For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility 15by abolishing in His flesh the law of commandments and decrees. He did this to create in Himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace 16and reconciling both of them to God in one body through the cross, by which He put to death their hostility. 17He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Christ Our Cornerstone (Isaiah 28:14–22; 1 Corinthians 3:10–15; 1 Peter 2:1–8) 19Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household, 20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone. 21In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22And in Him you too are being built together into a dwelling place for God in His Spirit. Footnotes: 10 a Literally which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ephesians 2 Summary Christ Our Cornerstone Verses 1–3 – Dead in Sin Paul opens with the hard truth: every person starts life “dead in your trespasses and sins.” We once marched in step with “the ruler of the power of the air,” giving in to the cravings of body and mind. By nature we were “children of wrath,” deservedly under God’s judgment. Verses 4–7 – Made Alive with Christ “But because of His great love for us,” God stepped in. Though we were lifeless, He “made us alive with Christ,” raised us up, and even seated us with Jesus in the heavenly realms—evidence that our future is already secured. Verses 8–10 – Saved by Grace for Good Works Salvation is “by grace…through faith…not by works.” It is God’s gift, so no one can brag. Yet verse 10 adds balance: we are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance.” Grace saves; works show the new life. Verses 11–13 – Brought Near by the Blood Gentiles once stood outside Israel’s covenants, “without hope and without God.” Now, “in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.” Verses 14–18 – Peace Through the Cross Jesus “is our peace.” By His death He broke down “the dividing wall of hostility,” making Jews and Gentiles “one new man.” Both now have “access to the Father by one Spirit.” Verses 19–22 – Citizens, Family, Temple Believers are no longer outsiders but “fellow citizens with the saints,” members of God’s household. Built on the foundation of apostles and prophets, with “Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone,” we are being fitted together into a living temple for God’s Spirit. Ephesians 2 unfolds a transformative account of humanity's journey from death to life, division to unity, and strangers to citizens of God's kingdom. This chapter sheds light on God's immense love and grace, offering salvation to everyone through faith in Jesus Christ. Historical Setting and Audience • Letter written by Paul while under house arrest in Rome (around AD 60–62; cf. Acts 28). • Ephesus was a bustling port in Asia Minor, site of the massive Temple of Artemis and a mix of cultures, magic practices, and trade. • The church contained both Jewish and Gentile believers; tension over identity ran high (Acts 19; Ephesians 2:11). Paul tackles that issue head-on. Key Words and Ideas dead " trespasses " grace " faith " gift " workmanship " peace " one new man " access " household " cornerstone Spiritual Death and New Life “Dead” (2:1) means powerless, unable to respond to God—much like Lazarus in the tomb (John 11). Genesis 2:17 warned that sin brings death; Romans 6:23 echoes it. New life comes only “with Christ” (Colossians 2:13). God doesn’t resuscitate the old; He creates something brand-new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Grace and Faith Explained • Grace is God’s unearned kindness (Romans 3:24). • Faith is the open hand that receives; even this trusting response is “not from yourselves” (Ephesians 2:8). • Titus 3:5-7 reinforces the point: salvation rests on mercy, not merit. Good Works and Their Proper Place Verse 10 re-centers the discussion: works flow from salvation, not toward it. James 2 shows faith acting; John 15:5 pictures fruit borne through abiding in Christ. God “prepared in advance” good works—so obedience is not drudgery; it is walking in plans He already laid out. Gentile Inclusion in God’s Family Acts 15 records the Jerusalem council affirming Gentile inclusion. Isaiah 49:6 had foretold that the Servant would be “a light for the nations.” In Ephesians 2, Paul celebrates that prophecy fulfilled: Gentiles are “fellow heirs” (see also Ephesians 3:6). The Broken Wall and Temple Imagery At Herod’s temple a stone barrier (the Soreq) warned Gentiles not to pass under penalty of death; archaeologists recovered plaques with that warning. Paul uses this well-known wall to picture separation now removed. Jesus’ death also tore the inner temple veil (Matthew 27:51), showing open access to God. Now believers themselves become the dwelling place (1 Corinthians 3:16). Connections to Old Testament • “Children of wrath” (2:3) – echoes Psalm 90:7. • “Rich in mercy” (2:4) – language drawn from Exodus 34:6. • “Gift of God” (2:8) – hinted at in Isaiah 55:1-3’s free offer. • “Cornerstone” (2:20) – Psalm 118:22; Isaiah 28:16. • “Peace … far and near” (2:17) – Isaiah 57:19. • One new people – foreshadowed in Ezekiel 37:15-28’s two sticks becoming one. Archaeological Insights from Ephesus • The Great Theatre (capacity 24,000) still stands; it was the scene of the Artemis riot in Acts 19. • Marble streets, terraced houses, and inscriptions reveal a wealthy, pluralistic city—fertile ground for Paul to contrast earthly status with heavenly standing. • In local museums, Soreq warning stones illustrate the very “dividing wall” Paul says Christ removed. Practical Application for Today • No one is beyond God’s reach; He brings the spiritually dead to life. • Because salvation is a gift, pride has no place; gratitude does. • Ethnic, social, and cultural barriers crumble at the cross. The church lives out visible unity that the world can’t explain. • Good works are not tickets to heaven but the family resemblance of those already seated with Christ. • Our primary identity is God’s household—citizens of His kingdom, brothers and sisters, living stones in His temple. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 5:8 But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Titus 3:5 He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. 1 Peter 2:5 You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Teaching Points Spiritual Death and Life Ephesians 2:1-5 highlights our former state of spiritual death due to sin and the transformative power of God's mercy and love, which makes us alive in Christ. And you were dead in your trespasses and sins (Ephesians 2:1). Grace and Salvation Verses 8-9 emphasize that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of works, so that no one can boast. For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). Unity in Christ Ephesians 2:14-16 speaks of Christ as our peace, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility and creating one new humanity. For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility (Ephesians 2:14). The Household of God Verses 19-22 describe believers as members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone. Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of His household (Ephesians 2:19). Practical Applications Embrace Grace Recognize and accept that your salvation is a gift from God, not something you can earn. Live in gratitude and humility. Seek Unity Actively work towards unity within the body of Christ, breaking down barriers and fostering peace among believers. Build on the Foundation Strengthen your faith by studying the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as your cornerstone. Live as a Member of God's Household Conduct yourself in a manner worthy of being part of God's family, showing love and hospitality to others. People 1. God The chapter begins by highlighting God's role in salvation. Ephesians 2:4-5 states, "But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses." The Greek word for God here is "Θεός" (Theos), emphasizing His divine nature and authority. 2. Jesus Christ Central to the chapter, Jesus is the means through which believers are saved. Ephesians 2:13 says, "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ." The Greek term "Χριστός" (Christos) refers to the Anointed One, the Messiah. 3. The Holy Spirit While not explicitly named in Ephesians 2, the Holy Spirit's work is implied in the process of reconciliation and unity. Ephesians 2:18 mentions, "For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit." The Greek word "Πνεῦμα" (Pneuma) is used for Spirit, indicating the breath or spirit of God. 4. The Apostles and Prophets Ephesians 2:20 refers to the foundation of the church being "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone." The Greek words "ἀπόστολοι" (apostoloi) and "προφῆται" (prophētai) denote those sent with a message and those who speak forth God's word, respectively. 5. The Gentiles Ephesians 2:11-12 addresses the Gentiles, who were once "excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise." The Greek term "ἔθνη" (ethnē) is used, meaning nations or peoples, indicating those who were not part of the Jewish community. 6. The Jews Implicitly mentioned as those who were "near" in contrast to the Gentiles who were "far away" (Ephesians 2:17). The chapter discusses the breaking down of the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles through Christ. 7. The Church While not a person, the church is described as a collective body of believers. Ephesians 2:19-22 speaks of the church as "fellow citizens with the saints and members of God's household," built together into a holy temple. Places 1. Heavenly Realms Ephesians 2:6 states, "And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus." The term "heavenly realms" (Greek: ἐπουρανίοις, epouraniois) refers to the spiritual dimension where believers are positioned with Christ. This is not a physical location but a spiritual status indicating the believer's union with Christ and participation in His victory and authority. 2. This World In Ephesians 2:2, it mentions, "in which you used to walk when you conformed to the ways of this world and of the ruler of the power of the air." The "world" (Greek: κόσμος, kosmos) here refers to the present age or system that is opposed to God. It is a metaphorical place representing the sphere of influence dominated by sin and rebellion against God. 3. Commonwealth of Israel Ephesians 2:12 refers to the "commonwealth of Israel," stating, "remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of the promise." The "commonwealth" (Greek: πολιτείας, politeias) signifies the community or citizenship of Israel, representing the people of God and their covenantal relationship with Him. 4. Far and Near Ephesians 2:13 mentions, "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ." The terms "far" and "near" are used metaphorically to describe the spiritual distance and proximity to God. "Far" represents separation from God, while "near" signifies reconciliation and access to Him through Christ. Events 1. Spiritual Death and Sin Ephesians 2:1-2 describes how believers were once "dead in your trespasses and sins," following "the ways of this world and of the ruler of the power of the air." The Greek word for "trespasses" (παράπτωμα, paraptōma) implies a fall or deviation from the right path. 2. Living in the Flesh Verse 3 explains that all people "lived among them at one time, fulfilling the cravings of our flesh and indulging its desires and thoughts." The term "flesh" (σάρξ, sarx) often refers to the sinful nature in Pauline theology. 3. God's Mercy and Love In verses 4-5, it is stated that "God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses." The Greek word for "mercy" (ἔλεος, eleos) emphasizes compassion and kindness. 4. Salvation by Grace Verse 8 highlights that "by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God." The Greek term for "grace" (χάρις, charis) signifies unmerited favor. 5. Created for Good Works Verse 10 states, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life." The word "workmanship" (ποίημα, poiēma) suggests a crafted work or masterpiece. 6. Unity in Christ Verses 11-13 discuss how Gentiles, once "excluded from citizenship in Israel," have been "brought near by the blood of Christ." The Greek term for "brought near" (ἐγγύς, engys) indicates a close relationship or proximity. 7. Christ as Our Peace In verses 14-15, it is declared that "He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility." The Greek word for "peace" (εἰρήνη, eirēnē) conveys harmony and reconciliation. 8. Reconciliation through the Cross Verse 16 explains that Christ reconciled both Jews and Gentiles "to God in one body through the cross, by which He extinguished their hostility." The term "reconcile" (ἀποκαταλλάσσω, apokatallassō) means to restore a relationship. 9. Access to the Father Verse 18 states, "For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit." The Greek word for "access" (προσαγωγή, prosagōgē) implies an introduction or approach to someone of higher status. 10. Citizenship and Household of God Verses 19-22 describe believers as "fellow citizens with the saints and members of God's household," built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone. The term "household" (οἰκεῖος, oikeios) refers to family or domestic members. Lessons from Ephesians 2 1. Alive in Christ Ephesians 2:1-5 reminds us that we were once dead in our transgressions, but God, rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ. This transformation is a powerful reminder of the new life we have in Him. "But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses" (Ephesians 2:4-5). Embrace this new life and let it fuel your daily walk with joy and purpose. 2. Saved by Grace The concept of grace is central to our faith, and Ephesians 2:8-9 beautifully encapsulates this truth: "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." Salvation is a gift, not something we earn. Let this truth humble you and inspire gratitude in your heart. 3. Created for Good Works Ephesians 2:10 tells us, "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." We are not saved by works, but we are saved for works. Discover the unique purpose God has for you and step into the good works He has prepared for you. 4. Unity in Christ In Ephesians 2:14, Paul speaks of Christ as our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier. "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility." This unity is a call to live in harmony with others, breaking down walls of division and embracing the peace that Christ offers. 5. Access to the Father Through Christ, we have direct access to the Father. Ephesians 2:18 states, "For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit." This access is a privilege and a reminder of the intimate relationship we can have with God. Approach Him with confidence and seek His guidance in all things. 6. Citizens of Heaven Ephesians 2:19 declares, "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household." As believers, we are part of a heavenly kingdom. This citizenship should shape our identity and influence how we live, knowing we are part of something greater than ourselves. 7. Built on a Firm Foundation The church is built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20). "Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone." This solid foundation ensures that our faith is unshakeable. Stand firm in your beliefs and let Christ be the cornerstone of your life. 8. A Holy Temple Ephesians 2:21-22 describes believers as being built together to become a holy temple in the Lord. "In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord." We are part of a spiritual structure, growing together in faith. Cherish your role in this divine architecture and contribute to the growth of the body of Christ. 9. Reconciliation through the Cross The cross is the ultimate symbol of reconciliation. Ephesians 2:16 explains that Christ reconciled both Jews and Gentiles to God through the cross. "And in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which He extinguished their hostility." This reconciliation is a call to live in peace with others, reflecting the love and sacrifice of Christ. 10. The Power of Peace Finally, Ephesians 2:17 highlights the peace that Christ preached to those who were far and near. "He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near." This peace is transformative, offering hope and healing. Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart and extend it to those around you, becoming a beacon of His love in a troubled world. Topics 1. Dead in Transgressions and Sins (Ephesians 2:1-3) This section describes the spiritual state of humanity before salvation. It emphasizes that people were "dead in your trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1). The Greek word for "trespasses" is "παράπτωμα" (paraptōma), meaning a false step or transgression, and "sins" is "ἁμαρτία" (hamartia), meaning to miss the mark. 2. Made Alive with Christ (Ephesians 2:4-7) Here, Paul explains God's mercy and love, stating, "But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ" (Ephesians 2:4-5). The Greek word for "made alive" is "συζωοποιέω" (syzōopoieō), indicating being brought to life together with Christ. 3. Saved by Grace through Faith (Ephesians 2:8-9) This passage highlights the doctrine of salvation by grace, stating, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith" (Ephesians 2:8). The Greek word for "grace" is "χάρις" (charis), meaning unmerited favor, and "faith" is "πίστις" (pistis), meaning trust or belief. 4. Created for Good Works (Ephesians 2:10) Paul emphasizes the purpose of believers, saying, "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works" (Ephesians 2:10). The Greek word for "workmanship" is "ποίημα" (poiēma), meaning a work or creation, indicating that believers are crafted by God for a purpose. 5. Unity in Christ (Ephesians 2:11-13) This section discusses the unity between Jews and Gentiles, stating, "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ" (Ephesians 2:13). The Greek word for "brought near" is "ἐγγίζω" (engizō), meaning to come near or approach. 6. Christ Our Peace (Ephesians 2:14-18) Paul describes Christ as the peace between divided groups, saying, "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one" (Ephesians 2:14). The Greek word for "peace" is "εἰρήνη" (eirēnē), indicating harmony and reconciliation. 7. A Dwelling Place for God (Ephesians 2:19-22) The chapter concludes with the imagery of believers as a holy temple, stating, "In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord" (Ephesians 2:21). The Greek word for "temple" is "ναός" (naos), referring to the inner sanctuary, symbolizing the indwelling presence of God among His people. Themes 1. Spiritual Death and Resurrection Ephesians 2:1-5 discusses the theme of spiritual death due to transgressions and sins, and the subsequent resurrection through Christ. The passage highlights the transformation from being "dead in your trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1) to being "made alive with Christ" (Ephesians 2:5). The Greek word for "trespasses" (παραπτώμασιν, paraptōmasin) emphasizes a deviation from the right path, while "sins" (ἁμαρτίαις, hamartiais) refers to missing the mark of God's standards. 2. Grace and Salvation The theme of grace is central in Ephesians 2:8-9, which states, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast" . The Greek word for "grace" (χάριτι, chariti) signifies unmerited favor, underscoring the idea that salvation is a divine gift rather than a human achievement. 3. Unity in Christ Ephesians 2:14-16 addresses the theme of unity, emphasizing that Christ "is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility" (Ephesians 2:14). The Greek term for "peace" (εἰρήνη, eirēnē) conveys a sense of wholeness and reconciliation, highlighting the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles. 4. New Identity and Citizenship In Ephesians 2:19, the theme of a new identity is presented: "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household" . The Greek word for "citizens" (πολῖται, politai) reflects a new status and belonging within God's kingdom, contrasting with the previous state of alienation. 5. The Church as a Holy Temple Ephesians 2:20-22 describes the church as a spiritual temple, "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone" (Ephesians 2:20). The Greek term for "cornerstone" (ἀκρογωνιαῖος, akrogōniaios) signifies the essential role of Christ in the structure and unity of the church, which is "a dwelling place for God in His Spirit" (Ephesians 2:22). Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Salvation Thank God for the gift of salvation and His grace that brings us from death to life. Unity in the Church Pray for unity among believers, that we may live as one body in Christ, breaking down walls of division. Strength to Live as God's Household Ask for strength and wisdom to live as members of God's household, reflecting His love and truth in our daily lives. Growth in Faith Pray for a deeper understanding of God's Word and a stronger foundation in Christ as our cornerstone. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ephesians 2:1–3, how can people be “dead in trespasses” if they’re already physically alive? 2. In Ephesians 2:2, what evidence supports the existence of a “prince of the power of the air”? 3. In Ephesians 2:8–9, isn’t “saved by grace through faith” at odds with verses in James that emphasize works? 4. In Ephesians 2:14–15, how can Christ abolish the Law yet also affirm it elsewhere in the New Testament? 5. In Ephesians 2:19–20, is there historical or archaeological proof of this “foundation of apostles and prophets”? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the transition from death to life described in verses 1-3 relate to your personal faith journey? 2. What does salvation by grace through faith mean to you in your everyday life? 3. How can you respond to God's gift of salvation in practical ways? 4. How do verses 4-10 challenge the common worldly notions of merit and achievement? 5. How does Paul's message about the inclusion of Gentiles in verses 11-13 impact your understanding of God's love for all people? 6. In what ways does the reconciliation and unity described in verses 14-18 challenge divisions in our contemporary world? 7. How can you contribute to unity and peace in your own community, following the example of Christ? 8. What does it mean to you to be part of God's household as described in verses 19-22? 9. How does the image of the church as a holy temple where God's Spirit dwells inspire you to live your life? 10. What practical steps can you take to make your life a reflection of God's grace as described in this chapter? 11. How can we ensure that our faith is not just about "works" but about accepting God's grace? 12. How can the teachings of Ephesians 2 guide us in addressing prejudice and discrimination in today's society? 13. How can the unity described in this chapter influence our attitudes towards those who are different from us? 14. How does the reconciliation message in Ephesians 2 inspire you to deal with conflicts in your personal life? 15. How does Ephesians 2 challenge you to extend grace and love to others in your daily interactions? 16. What role can you play in making the church a place of unity, peace, and reconciliation as described in this chapter? 17. How can you express your faith in a way that acknowledges the undeserved grace of God as discussed in Ephesians 2? 18. How can the principle of unity in Ephesians 2 inform our approach to societal issues like racism and classism? 19. What actions can you take to ensure your life is a manifestation of the new humanity described in this chapter? 20. Reflect on your personal growth as a Christian. How has the understanding of being part of God's household influenced your spiritual journey? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions