In this week’s message, Pastor Paul Durbin wraps up our journey through Ephesians by asking a powerful question: If Christ is really transforming me, where will it start to show? Just like Clint Eastwood’s character in Gran Torino went from bitter and hateful to selfless and sacrificial, the Apostle Paul went from persecuting Christians to championing the Church. That’s what real transformation looks like. In Ephesians 6, Paul outlines three specific areas where Jesus-centered change begins to show up in our lives: our relationships with others, our spiritual walk, and our prayer life. This message is a practical, clear invitation to live a Spirit-empowered life where transformation becomes visible, not just internal.
Ephesians 6:10–18 (NIV)
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power... Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes... Stand firm then, with the belt of truth... the breastplate of righteousness... the gospel of peace... the shield of faith... the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
Context: The Apostle Paul is writing from prison, urging believers to stay strong in Christ and calling out where transformation takes root—in how we treat others, how we walk with God, and how we pray daily.
Questions:
1. Which arena—relationships, spiritual walk, or prayer—feels most in need of transformation for you right now?
Reflection is key. Growth often starts where we're most stretched or weakest.
2. In your relationships, do you naturally lead with honor, patience, faithfulness, or mercy? Which do you resist?
Ephesians 6 reminds us that transformation shows in how we treat people—especially those it's “culturally okay” to look down on.