We are picking up in a highly practical section in Ephesians 5, yet also amid several topics that are often considered controversial. In rapid succession, Paul applies the Gospel to marriage, parenting, and work. However, some of the things he says hit the modern ear as problematic, if not outright offensive. What do we do with this? We will spend the next four weeks talking about "Modern Family." This week, we begin with "The Problem of Submitting." In a world full of sinful abuses and misuses of power, how can this be good news? Let's talk about it.

Discussion Questions

Nobody likes the idea of submission - it’s almost a curse word. What are the concerns or issues at play here? Why is this such a negative and sensitive subject?

Growing up, did you learn good things or bad things about submission? Imagine that you are talking to an engaged couple that looks up to you; how would you coach or counsel the two regarding headship, submission, and spiritual leadership? Or would you be reluctant to talk about such verses in the Bible? (Pins and needles! Eggshells! Landmines everywhere!)

Paul preloads this topic with a big assumption and foundation in Ephesians 5: people need to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Knowing our sins and imperfections, is this a practical and helpful teaching?

“Marriage is the gospel reenacted.” How so? What does this mean?

In the Trinity, we see voluntary subordination - they are not interchangeable persons (F, S, HS) and there is no hierarchy, in terms of essence of substance. How do our sense of relationship, need and desire for other people, and our own maturity flow from what we see in the Trinity? How is this good news for a person who never gets married? How does this theology apply to a single person‘s life and encourage them?

Paul’s vision and goal is that we all submit to Christ. Do you have any examples of how this plays out in a church, marriage, or even a workplace setting?

Have you ever seen Christ work in a husband’s life because his wife had a godly influence upon him?

“If this is about power we are in trouble.” How does Jesus demonstrate voluntary submission? And how does he demonstrate godly use of power? How can we begin to emulate that, by the power of the Spirit?

Gospel: We are the forgetful, unfaithful, aloof, and lazy ones; yet Christ still pursues us.