12: The Call to Stand – Teaching Plan

Key Thought: In Ephesians, Paul prays for an enhanced vision for believers so they will see the full reality of the great controversy and the hope it reveals.
September 16, 2023

1. Have a volunteer read Ephesians 6:10,11.

Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point is in this passage.
What does Paul’s battle cry mean to us today, as combatants in the great controversy?
Personal Application: How do you see the reality of the great controversy, which involves literal supernatural powers, as central to Paul’s point? Share your thoughts..
Case Study: One of your relatives states, “What does it mean that we are not fighting against flesh and blood? There are many people that do evil things and say bad things against me and others. Sure, they may be led by evil spirits, but it is the person’s evil deeds and words that I see and hear.” How would you respond to your relative?

2. Have a volunteer read Romans 13:11-14.

Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
Why does Paul use the imagery of battle and soldiers and warfare in referring to the Christian struggle?
Personal Application: In what ways have you experienced the reality of the conflict and victory we can claim for ourselves in Christ? Share your thoughts
Case Study: One of your friends states, “What does Paul mean by saying we need to wake up out of sleep? What kinds of works of darkness does Paul mention? How do we put on the Lord Jesus Christ?” How would you respond to your friend?

3. Have a volunteer read Ephesians 6:12-19.

Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point in this text is.
Why does Paul use the word ‘stand’ and why is this idea important?
Personal Application: Why does Paul list a variety of titles for the evil superpowers in Ephesus? Share your thoughts.
Case Study: One of your neighbors states: “How do you confront the powers of darkness in your own life? How do you minister to someone who seems oppressed by the forces of evil? How do you discern the schemes of the devil?l” How would you respond to your relative?

4. Have a volunteer read I Timothy 6:19,20.

Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
Why would Paul think he could be a good ambassador for Christ while locked in prison?
Personal Application: Have you ever felt like you couldn’t share the good news because of circumstances that you felt hindered you? What does the saying, ‘Our importunities are God’s opportunities’ mean to you? Share your thoughts.
Case Study: Think of one person who needs to hear a message from this week’s lesson. Tell the class what you plan to do this week to share with them.

(Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessings can be retained only as it is shared.”Ministry of Healing, p. 148).

Amen!