Draw near to God

Topics: God, Ephesians

I. You once were far away from God

* Remember your conversion from which you were saved!

1. Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called "Uncircumcision" by the so-called "Circumcision" which is performed in the flesh by human hands remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world (Ephesians 2:11, 12; see Deuteronomy 30:6; Romans 2:29).

2. But you are a chosen race a royal priesthood, a holy nation a people for God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were not a people, but now you are the people of God; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy (1 Peter 2:9, 10).

II. You are now brought near by the blood

* Recognize the payment made to purchase your salvation!

1. But now in Christ Jesus, you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ (Ephesians 2:13).
2. For it was the Father's a good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven (Colossians 1:19, 20).
3. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need . . . let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water (Hebrews 4:16; 10:22).

III. You are also brought near in peace

* Rejoice that you have peace with God through Jesus Christ!

1. For He Himself is our peace (Ephesians 2:14a).
2. Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1).
3. "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful" (John 14:27).

Sermon by Pastor Rod Akins, July 6th, 2025.

Life group flow and discussion questions

Draw near to God

An important Guideline of Life Groups: Pursuing intimacy with our Lord needs continual encouragement. Life is full of distractions and deceptions. Make Drawing near to God a priority in your times as a Life Group. Worship and prayer need to be central.

Getting Started:

1. Do you remember your conversion? How does Ephesians 2:11, 12 describe your life before coming to know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior?
2. What are some ways that you draw near to God in your personal devotions?

Discussing Truths:

1. How does 1 Peter 2:9, 10 inspire you to "proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light"?
2. What does it mean to circumcise your heart (Deuteronomy 10:16; 30:6; Romans 2:29)?
3. Why was the death of Jesus necessary for us to draw near and have a relationship with God? What Scriptures can you cite to support this?
4. James 4:8 says, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you"? Do you believe that promise? What do you do when you "feel distance" from the Lord?
5. Why is it important that people understand there is a barrier between them and God UNTIL they receive Christ as their Lord and Savior?
6. Do you realize that we need peace with God before we can enjoy peace with one another? Paul establishes this in Ephesians 2:13-22.
7. How do you experience the supernatural peace of Christ in the midst of the chaotic world in which we live (John 14:27; Philippians 4:6-9)?

Now What? Application:

1. Make it a daily habit to draw near to God and quietly listen to His voice (Ecclesiastes 5:1; Psalm 46:10).
2. Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart and be thankful (Colossians 3:15).