Sunday we answered the question of why we practice the sacraments of baptism & communion. We started into the discussion first focusing on the grace of God that is surrounding and empowering these wonderful practices. Because of God’s gracious disposition, he has given grace to His people! In many ways, we rehearse the gospel and worship Jesus when we practice the sacraments.

Read Exodus 34:6-7. Are you struck by any facets of God’s character? Which is most challenging for you to believe? Why?

Read Ephesians 2:4-10. Share testimonies about your initial salvation experience! Try to clearly articulate ways that God was gracious to you; it will inspire your group to gratitude and joy!

Martin Luther famously once said, “the entire life of believers is to be one of repentance.” How is the grace of God drawing you to move from death to life today? Think on Jesus’ commands and character; purity, love for your neighbor, long-suffering, forgiving one another. That’s the same grace from Ephesians 2 making us more like Jesus!

Take a moment to connect the dots between God’s gospel grace and baptism & communion. In what ways do the sacraments preach the gospel? Why is that powerful?!

Paul warns believers to approach communion in a holy way. Continue to let God’s grace we’ve been discussing guide your thinking: what do you think Paul had in mind when he made that challenge. Read 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 if you need a reference.

Close your time in prayer for one another and the church. Pray like Paul in Ephesians 1 that we would know the depths of the love of God for us in Christ Jesus!