Our passage informs us that Paul sent his epistle to the Ephesians with the assistance of Tychicus as his courier (Eph. 6:21–22). We learn how to be a caring church by examing the example of this faithful servant of God, Tychicus. Paul’s final greeting to us in Ephesians includes a benediction that both “peace” and “love with faith” would be ours “from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph. 6:23). Our study will follow the outline below:  

1. The Caring Church – Tychicus’ Example (v.21-22) 
2. The Love-filled Church – Paul’s Prayer (v.23) 
3. The Grace-filled Church – Paul’s Benediction (v.24)

In verse 21-22, Paul describes Tychicus as a reliable servant of the Lord. Paul says he is a beloved brother and has shared in the ministry of the gospel faithfully. And he is coming to the Ephesians with this letter in his hand to encourage their hearts.

In verse 23, Paul gives this blessing of peace. His prayer is that the Ephesian church will experience the fullness of God's favour and know of the total enjoyment of the well-being that only God grants. 

Paul closes his letter with a second benediction in verse 24 with a focus on God. The focus is on Christ as the source of peace, the source of love, faithfulness and grace. 

Getting Started                          

1. Have you ever given a farewell speech? What was the occasion? How was it received? Share your experience.     

Read Ephesians 6:16-24

2. What insight, principle, or observation from Sunday’s sermon did you find to be the most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling?

Digging Deeper

3. What are the three ways that Paul describes Tychicus? What does this tell us about this man?  

4. Paul’s benediction speaks of true peace. Genuine peace can only be found in Christ’s work at the cross. Read Philippians 4:7, 2 Peter 1:2, Ezekiel 13:10-16 and discuss the difference between true and false peace. 

5. What does Paul ask God for in Ephesians 6:24? What does this word mean? Be practical.

The Heart of the Matter

6. Are there any lessons from Tychicus’ example that you can learn from? What are some of the ways you can help NLC become more of a caring church? (c.f. John 13:35, Galatians 6:2) 

7. Peace and love go hand in hand. Ephesians 5:1-2 teaches us that God’s love for us is the example for our love for one another. Read John 13:34-35 and discuss practical ways that you can demonstrate His love. 

8. We are created, redeemed, and called by God to be his people in the world. People who reflect God’s character and represent his kingdom. People who live and work in a way that makes God’s light and love known to a world that desperately needs it. Read Hebrews 10:24-25 and discuss ways we can stir up one another to love and good works.