Ephesians 2:19-22

19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, 20 built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. 21 In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; 22 in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God.

Questions to consider:

• How is it different to be a citizen as opposed to an alien in a country? How do you think this metaphor is useful in understanding God's kingdom?
• Who are the apostles and prophets referred to here?
  
• Why is it important that Christ is the cornerstone of the household of God? Who is included in this household?
  

Possibilities for prayer:

The final verse of this passage makes a strong suggestion: we, the now citizens and members of the household of God are to be joined together into a temple in which God can dwell. Put more simply, we are to be a people or community in whom the Holy Spirit dwells. We may think carefully about whether and how the Holy Spirit dwells in us as individuals, but how often do we think about the Spirit dwelling in our community? Today, let's take some time to pray for just that--let's pray for our church and community, that we would be united in Christ and together be a people in whom the Holy Spirit is pleased to dwell.