Romans
Romans, a cornerstone of Christian theology, systematically lays out the Gospel of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul explores themes of justification, sanctification, and God's plan for both Jews and Gentiles, culminating in a call to live transformed lives. As Paul declares, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes" (Romans 1:16
Session 1: Romans 1:1-17 - Introduction and the Power of the Gospel
Focus: The Gospel is the power of God for salvation.
READ: Romans 1:1-17
Purpose Statement: Paul begins his letter by introducing himself and expressing his eagerness to preach the Gospel. He emphasizes the power of the Gospel to bring salvation to everyone, regardless of their background, and his desire to see the believers in Rome. This section sets the stage for the theological depth that follows.
OVERVIEW
Romans 1:1-17 serves as an introduction to the Book of Romans and sets the tone for the entire epistle. In this passage, Paul introduces himself as a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God. He emphasizes the power of the gospel, which brings salvation to everyone who believes. This section underscores the importance of faith and the power of God's grace.
Pivotal Verse: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile." - Romans 1:16
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 1:14, Paul writes, "I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish." This might surprise some readers because it highlights Paul's mission to preach the gospel to all people, regardless of their cultural background or intellectual status. In the context of the first century, there was a significant division between Jews and Gentiles, as well as between the educated and uneducated. Paul's statement challenges these societal norms and emphasizes the universal nature of the gospel.
Clarification: Paul's declaration of obligation to both Greeks and non-Greeks, the wise and the foolish, underscores the inclusivity of the gospel message. It breaks down barriers of ethnicity, culture, and intellect, showing that salvation through Christ is available to everyone. This teaching highlights the importance of viewing all people as equal recipients of God's grace and love, regardless of their background or social status. It is a reminder that the power of the gospel transcends human divisions and unites us in Christ.
APPLYING: Romans 1:1-17 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 1:1-17 can be applied in several practical ways. It encourages us to be unashamed of our faith and to share the gospel with others, emphasizing its power to bring salvation. This can inspire us to live out our faith boldly and to be a source of hope and encouragement to those around us. Additionally, Paul's message reminds us of the importance of inclusivity and breaking down barriers, encouraging us to treat everyone with love and respect, regardless of their background or status.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Transformation of Lives: Many individuals have experienced profound personal transformations through their faith in Christ. For example, people who have struggled with addiction, depression, or other challenges often find hope and healing through their relationship with God and the support of a faith community.
Community Impact: Churches and Christian organizations frequently engage in acts of service and charity, such as feeding the hungry, providing shelter for the homeless, and offering support to those in need. These actions demonstrate the gospel's power to bring positive change to communities.
Reconciliation and Forgiveness: The gospel can bring about reconciliation between individuals and groups who have been divided by conflict, prejudice, or misunderstanding. Stories of forgiveness and restored relationships are powerful testimonies of the gospel's effect.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Think back to a time when you experienced something that completely changed your life. Maybe it was a moment of deep realization, a time when you heard something that shifted your understanding, or an event that left you with a new direction.
In Romans 1:16, Paul boldly declares, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile." The gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, is not just a story. It's not just words. It's the very power of God to transform lives—yours, mine, and the world. Like a switch that turns on a light in the darkness, the gospel brings clarity, hope, and life. When you think about the gospel’s power, think of it like a life-changing event that has the potential to turn everything around. It’s not just news; it’s the power to change your heart, your mind, and your life.
“The gospel is the most important message the world has ever heard. It has the power to change everything.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are a few other verses that speak of the power of the gospel and its life-changing ability:
1 Corinthians 1:18: "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."
2 Timothy 1:8-10: "So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel."
Matthew 28:18-19: “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.'"
These scriptures show that the power of the gospel is not just an idea—it’s an invitation to be part of God’s work of salvation and transformation in the world. It changes lives now and forever.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: What comes to mind when you hear the word "gospel"? Is it a song, a story, or something else?
—Paul's letter to the Romans is all about the Gospel. It's like a powerful message that can change lives.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 1:1-7. Who is Paul? What does he call himself? To whom is he writing?
—Paul introduces himself as a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle. He's writing to the church in Rome. He emphasizes his role as an apostle, someone specially chosen and sent by God.
Read Romans 1:8-12. What does Paul say about the Roman Christians' faith? What does he long to do?
—Paul commends their faith, which is known all over the world. He longs to visit them and share spiritual gifts with them so they can be mutually encouraged. This shows how much he valued fellowship with other believers.
Read Romans 1:13-17. What is Paul's main point in these verses? What does he mean by "the gospel...is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes"?
—Paul's main point is that he is not ashamed of the Gospel. In fact, it is the very power of God that brings salvation to all who believe, both Jews and Gentiles. It’s not just words; it’s a life-changing power. It’s available to everyone who believes.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 1:1-17), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main idea is to introduce himself and to emphasize the importance and
power of the Gospel. The key takeaway is that the Gospel is not just
a story, but the very power of God that can save us.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
As you think about Romans 1:16, consider that the gospel’s power isn’t just for salvation at the moment we first believe—it’s an ongoing force that works in our lives day after day. Every time we return to the good news of Jesus, we are reminded of the power it has to bring hope, heal brokenness, and offer peace that lasts beyond the struggles of life.
The bigger picture here is that the gospel isn’t just for us to hold onto for ourselves; it’s for the world. Paul talks about how the gospel brings salvation to "everyone who believes," whether they are near or far. And this salvation isn’t limited by age, culture, or background. It’s universal in its reach.
God's
plan through the gospel was never about just saving individuals; it’s
about bringing restoration and healing to the world, through His Son,
Jesus. Every time we share the gospel or live out its truth, we
participate in God’s bigger story—a story of reconciliation and
renewal for all creation. God’s power in the gospel continues to
change lives, even today.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans
1:1-17 reminds us that the Gospel is a powerful message of hope and
salvation. It’s a message that is relevant for all people, in all
times. Let’s reflect on what the Gospel means to us personally and
how it has impacted our lives. Have we truly embraced the power of
the Gospel?
Session 2: Romans 1:18-32 - God's Wrath Against Sinful Humanity
Focus: The consequences of rejecting God and embracing sin.
Purpose Statement: Paul addresses the wickedness of humanity, highlighting how people suppress the truth of God through unrighteousness. The consequence of rejecting God’s revelation leads to deeper sin. This sets the foundation for the need for redemption in Christ.
OVERVIEW
Romans 1:18-32 deals with the consequences of rejecting God and embracing sin. Paul explains that God's wrath is revealed against all ungodliness and wickedness of people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. This passage highlights how humanity's deliberate rejection of God leads to moral and spiritual degradation. The key takeaway is understanding the importance of acknowledging and honoring God to avoid the destructive path of sin.
Pivotal Verses: "For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened." - Romans 1:21
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 1:24-25, Paul writes, "Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen." This might surprise some readers because it shows that God's response to human rebellion includes allowing people to experience the consequences of their own sinful choices. It's a sobering reminder of the seriousness of rejecting God.
Clarification: The phrase "God gave them over" means that God allowed people to follow their own sinful desires and face the natural consequences of their actions. It's not that God actively causes people to sin, but rather He permits them to pursue their own chosen path, which inevitably leads to spiritual and moral decay. This teaching highlights the importance of seeking God's truth and living according to His ways to avoid the destructive consequences of sin.
APPLYING: Romans 1:18-32 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 1:18-32 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the importance of acknowledging and honoring God in all aspects of our lives. It encourages us to examine our hearts and motives, ensuring that we are not suppressing the truth of God or exchanging His truth for lies. By living in accordance with God's will, we can avoid the destructive consequences of sin and experience the fullness of life that comes from a relationship with Him.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Overcoming Materialism: In a world that often prioritizes material wealth and success, the gospel calls us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Individuals who have embraced this teaching find true contentment and purpose beyond material possessions.
Breaking Free from Addiction: People who struggle with various forms of addiction often find freedom and healing through the power of the gospel. By turning to God for strength and support, they can break free from the cycle of addiction and experience a transformed life.
Rebuilding Broken Lives: The gospel has the power to restore and rebuild lives that have been shattered by sin and poor choices. Individuals who have hit rock bottom can find hope, forgiveness, and a new beginning through faith in Christ.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Imagine a parent who loves their child deeply. They provide, protect, and care for their child with everything they have. But when that child grows older, they begin to ignore the wisdom and love their parent offers. Over time, they make decisions that hurt themselves and others, and despite their parent’s best efforts, the child rejects the guidance, and even the relationship. Eventually, the consequences of their decisions become impossible to ignore, and the love of the parent is met with separation, as their child chooses a different path.
This is a picture of what happens when humanity rejects God. Romans 1:18-32 paints a picture of how God’s wrath is revealed when people deliberately turn away from Him and embrace sin. It's not that God is quick to anger or wants to punish, but rather that sin itself brings its own consequences. As people reject God, they experience the consequences of their choices—things unravel, and brokenness increases.
In verse 21, Paul writes: “For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.” Rejection of God leads to a spiral—one that starts with ignoring God and ends in a life that becomes disconnected from truth and hope.
“Sin is not a light matter; it is a deliberate turning away from the goodness of God, which leads to separation and destruction.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are some other passages that connect with Romans 1:18-32 and highlight the consequences of rejecting God:
2
Thessalonians 2:10-12: “They
perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For
this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will
believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not
believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness.”
This
passage underscores the danger of rejecting truth—eventually,
people are allowed to go down a path where they believe falsehoods
and experience the consequences of that choice.
Ephesians
4:18-19: “They
are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of
God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of
their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves
over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and
they are full of greed.”
Just
like in Romans 1, rejecting God leads to a darkened heart and mind
that leads to moral decay.
Galatians
6:7-8: “Do
not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.
Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap
destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will
reap eternal life.”
This
passage reminds us that our choices matter, and rejecting God’s
ways leads to ruin, while following His Spirit brings life.
James
1:14-15: “But
each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil
desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth
to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”
Sin
has a progression. The consequences of rejecting God start small but
can grow into something destructive.
LEAD-IN QUESTION:
Question: Have you ever seen someone make choices that had negative consequences in their lives?
—Paul talks about the consequences of turning away from God. It's a serious topic, but it's important to understand.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 1:18-23. What is God's wrath? Why is it revealed? What did people do instead of worshiping God?
—God's wrath is His righteous anger against sin. It’s not like human anger, which is often based on emotion. God's wrath is a response to the way humans reject Him and His truth. Instead of worshiping God, people worship created things rather than the Creator. They exchanged the truth of God for a lie.
Read Romans 1:24-27. What did God do as a result of their choices? What are some of the consequences described here?
—God "gave them over" to their sinful desires. This doesn't mean God caused them to sin, but that He removed His restraint, allowing them to follow their own choices. The consequences include sexual immorality and dishonorable passions. It's important to understand that these are consequences of rejecting God, not arbitrary punishments.
Read Romans 1:28-32. What other consequences are listed here? What is the ultimate consequence mentioned in verse 32?
—Paul lists a whole range of negative behaviors that result from rejecting God, including wickedness, evil, greed, malice, envy, murder, strife, deceit, and more. The ultimate consequence is that those who live this way are worthy of death, both physical and spiritual. This isn’t about God being mean; it's about the natural consequences of choosing a life apart from Him.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 1:18-32), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? Is this passage easy to understand?
—Paul's
main point is that rejecting God and embracing sin has serious
consequences. It's a somber and difficult passage, and some of the
specific behaviors mentioned can be challenging to discuss. It's
important to remember that Paul is describing the general
consequences of turning away from God, not judging individuals.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
The passage from Romans 1:18-32 presents a sobering picture of what happens when humanity chooses to turn away from God. While God’s love is steadfast and His desire is to save, rejecting Him leads to a downward spiral. This passage is a warning to us, not just about the wrath of God, but about the reality that our choices matter. When we reject God’s wisdom, we turn away from the very source of life, truth, and peace.
But there’s hope. The same God who allows people to experience the consequences of their rejection is also the One who provides a way back. The gospel isn’t just about salvation from sin; it’s about the restoration of relationship with God, even after we’ve chosen our own way. God’s grace allows us to turn back to Him, no matter how far we’ve gone. Romans 1 might seem harsh, but it's also a call to remember that rejecting God never leads to life, but embracing Him brings us back to His life-giving presence.
In the end, we’re reminded of the importance of making God the center of our lives—glorifying Him, giving thanks, and allowing His wisdom to guide us. When we embrace His truth, we are set free from the consequences of sin and can walk in the fullness of His purpose.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 1:18-32 reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the importance of turning to God. While this passage focuses on the negative consequences of rejecting God, the rest of Romans offers a message of hope and redemption through Jesus Christ. Let's remember that God's desire is for all people to turn to Him and find forgiveness.
Session 3: Romans 2:1-16 - God’s Righteous Judgment
Focus: God judges impartially based on deeds, not external appearances.
READ: Romans 2:1-16
Purpose Statement: Paul explains that God will judge everyone according to their actions. He warns against self-righteousness and calls for genuine repentance, showing that all are accountable to God—Jew or Gentile alike.
OVERVIEW
Romans 2:1-16 focuses on God's righteous judgment and emphasizes that God judges impartially based on deeds, not external appearances. Paul addresses both Jews and Gentiles, pointing out that no one can escape God's judgment by relying on their heritage or outward observance of the law. This passage highlights the importance of living a life consistent with God's standards and the fact that everyone will be judged according to their actions.
Pivotal Verses: "For God does not show favoritism." - Romans 2:11
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 2:14-15, Paul writes, "Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law. They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them." This might surprise some readers because it suggests that Gentiles, who were not given the Mosaic Law, can still fulfill its requirements through their conscience and inner sense of right and wrong.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing that God's moral law is universal and can be known by all people, regardless of whether they have received the written law. This teaching highlights the idea that God's judgment is based on the inner moral compass and actions of individuals, rather than their external adherence to religious rituals or heritage. It underscores the importance of living a life that aligns with God's principles, whether or not one has been directly exposed to the written law.
APPLYING: Romans 2:1-16 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 2:1-16 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the importance of integrity and consistency in our actions. It encourages us to examine our hearts and ensure that our deeds reflect our faith and values. This teaching also challenges us to avoid judging others based on outward appearances and to recognize that God looks at the heart and judges impartially. We are called to live out our faith authentically, knowing that our actions have eternal significance.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Living with Integrity: Individuals who strive to live with integrity, treating others with kindness and fairness, often experience the respect and trust of those around them. Their actions reflect their inner commitment to God's principles, serving as a positive influence in their communities.
Social Justice Efforts: Many Christians engage in social justice efforts, advocating for the marginalized and oppressed. Their work demonstrates the power of the gospel to bring about positive change and promote God's values of justice and compassion in society.
Personal Transformation: People who have experienced personal transformation through their faith often share how God's guidance has led them to make better choices and live more meaningful lives. Their actions reflect the inner change that has taken place, serving as a testimony to the power of the gospel.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Think about a time when you’ve judged someone based on what you saw or heard—maybe the way they looked, where they came from, or the mistakes they’ve made. It's so easy for us to judge by outward appearances. But how often do we stop and think about what’s really going on in someone’s heart or the choices they've made behind closed doors?
In Romans 2:6-7, Paul says, “God ‘will repay each person according to what they have done.’ To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, he will give eternal life.” This reminds us that God doesn’t look at our outward actions alone. He looks at our hearts, our true intentions, and how we live when no one is watching. God’s judgment is not like human judgment, where we make assumptions based on appearances. He judges us impartially, based on what we have truly done with our lives—whether it reflects His truth, goodness, and love.
“It’s easy to be judged by others, but God alone knows the truth about who we really are.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are some other scriptures that relate to God’s righteous, impartial judgment based on deeds:
1
Peter 1:17: “Since
you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially,
live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear.”
This
verse emphasizes that God is an impartial judge, and we are called to
live in reverent fear of Him, knowing that He judges fairly.
Matthew
7:21-23: “Not
everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of
heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in
heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not
prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your
name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I
never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
In
this passage, Jesus reminds us that outward appearances and actions
alone are not enough. God looks at the heart, and it’s our true
relationship with Him that matters.
2
Corinthians 5:10: “For
we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each
of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the
body, whether good or bad.”
This
verse highlights that everyone will be judged by what they’ve done,
but it’s not just about deeds—it’s about the heart behind them.
Revelation
20:12: “And
I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and
books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of
life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as
recorded in the books.”
This
verse reminds us that judgment is based on deeds. Our lives will be
evaluated by God, and He will see beyond our outward appearances.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Question: Have you ever seen someone who seemed very religious on the outside, but their actions didn't match their words?
—Paul talks about how God looks at the heart and our actions, not just our outward appearance or what we say.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 2:1-5. What is Paul saying to the person who judges others? Why is that person in the wrong?
—Paul is saying that anyone who judges others is hypocritical because they are likely guilty of the same sins they condemn. It's easy to point fingers at others, but we need to examine ourselves first. God's kindness is meant to lead us to repentance, not to be taken for granted.
Read Romans 2:6-11. What is the basis of God’s judgment? What will He give to those who do good? What will He give to those who do evil?
—God will judge everyone according to their deeds. He will reward those who do good with eternal life. But those who do evil will face wrath and punishment. God's judgment is impartial. It doesn't matter your background.
Read Romans 2:12-16. What is the difference between those who sin under the law and those who sin without the law? What will happen on the day of judgment?
—Those who sin under the law (like the Jews) will be judged by the law. Those who sin without the law (like the Gentiles) will be judged by their conscience. God's law is written on everyone’s heart. On the day of judgment, God will judge the secrets of people's hearts through Jesus Christ.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 2:1-16), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that God judges everyone fairly, based on their actions
and the light they have received. No one can escape God’s
judgment. The key takeaway is that we need to be honest with
ourselves about our own sin and turn to God for mercy.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
In Romans 2:1-16, we are reminded that God’s judgment is fair and just—He doesn’t play favorites or make judgments based on the outside. Whether you are wealthy, poor, young, old, or anywhere in between, God sees you for who you truly are. This passage calls us to live with integrity, knowing that the way we live is what matters most to God. It’s not our outward acts that will earn us favor; it’s our hearts and our actions that reflect the love and goodness of God.
We can take comfort in knowing that God’s judgment is not like the world’s judgment. He doesn’t judge by popularity, status, or reputation. His judgment is about the heart—how we respond to His grace and how we live out His truth, regardless of how others might see us. This should encourage us to focus on living rightly before God, seeking to honor Him in everything we do, rather than seeking the approval of others.
It also reminds us of the importance of aligning our actions with God’s will, knowing that each deed is seen by Him. As we seek to live with integrity, we are reflecting the truth of God's impartial judgment—a judgment based not on what others see, but on the true quality of our hearts and our lives.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 2:1-16 reminds us that God is a just and impartial judge. We should focus less on judging others and more on examining our own hearts. Let's ask God to help us live lives that are pleasing to Him.
Session 4: Romans 2:17-29 - True Circumcision: A Matter of the Heart
Focus: True righteousness is a matter of the heart, not outward actions.
READ: Romans 2:17-29
Purpose Statement: Paul critiques those who rely on the law and external symbols like circumcision to justify themselves, instead of having a transformed heart. True righteousness is rooted in the inner transformation that God brings.
OVERVIEW
Romans 2:17-29 addresses the issue of true righteousness, emphasizing that it is a matter of the heart rather than merely outward actions. Paul critiques the Jews who rely on the law and their heritage, pointing out that true circumcision is not just an external act, but a transformation of the heart. This passage highlights the importance of inner devotion to God and living out one's faith authentically.
Pivotal Verses: "A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code." - Romans 2:28-29
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 2:25, Paul writes, "Circumcision has value if you observe the law, but if you break the law, you have become as though you had not been circumcised." This might surprise some readers because it challenges the traditional Jewish understanding of circumcision as a sign of the covenant with God. Paul argues that merely performing the outward ritual without obedience to God's commands renders it meaningless.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing that the physical act of circumcision is not what makes someone righteous in God's eyes. Instead, it is the inner transformation and genuine obedience to God's will that truly matters. This teaching highlights the importance of having a heart devoted to God and living out one's faith with sincerity. It reminds us that external rituals and appearances are not enough; what counts is the inner commitment and alignment with God's principles.
APPLYING: Romans 2:17-29 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 2:17-29 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us to focus on our inner spiritual growth and devotion to God. It encourages us to examine our hearts and ensure that our actions stem from a genuine relationship with God, rather than merely going through the motions of religious rituals. This teaching challenges us to live out our faith authentically and let our inner transformation be reflected in our outward actions.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Authentic Faith Practices: Many individuals find that their faith becomes more meaningful when they focus on personal spiritual growth and a genuine relationship with God. This often leads to a deeper sense of peace, purpose, and fulfillment in life.
Living Out Christian Values: People who strive to live out Christian values in their daily lives often have a positive impact on their communities. Their actions reflect their inner devotion to God, whether through acts of kindness, integrity in their work, or commitment to justice and compassion.
Spiritual Journeys: Those who have experienced significant spiritual growth often share how their inner transformation has led to positive changes in their behavior, relationships, and overall outlook on life. Their stories serve as powerful testimonies to the impact of genuine faith.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
In our world today, it’s easy to focus on outward appearances. We can judge others by what they wear, how they speak, or the things they do in public. But how often do we look deeper, at what is really going on inside of someone’s heart? God sees beyond the surface. He doesn’t just look at our actions; He looks at the true condition of our hearts.
In Romans 2:29, Paul makes it clear that “No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code.” What Paul is saying here is that true righteousness, or right living before God, isn’t about outward signs or religious rituals. It’s not about following rules to appear righteous; it’s about the transformation that happens deep inside us—our hearts changing to reflect God’s love, grace, and truth.
Take a moment to reflect: Are there areas of your life where you’re just “going through the motions” to look good on the outside, while your heart is distant from God? The beauty of the gospel is that God isn’t concerned with just our external actions; He wants to transform us from the inside out.
“God doesn’t care about your outward appearance, but He cares deeply about your heart.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are a few other passages that align with the message of true righteousness coming from the heart:
1
Samuel 16:7:
“But
the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his
height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things
people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord
looks at the heart.’”
This
reminds us that God sees beyond our exterior and looks at the heart,
the true center of who we are.
Matthew
23:25-26: “Woe
to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean
the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed
and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the
cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.”
Jesus
rebukes the Pharisees for focusing only on outward purity while
ignoring the inner corruption of their hearts. The same principle
applies to us today—true righteousness starts within.
Galatians
6:15: “Neither
circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the
new creation.”
In
this verse, Paul highlights that external rituals, like circumcision,
don’t matter for our salvation. What truly matters is the inner
transformation that comes from being made new in Christ.
Philippians
3:3: “For
it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit,
who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the
flesh.”
Here,
Paul again emphasizes that true righteousness is about serving God in
the Spirit, not relying on outward signs or accomplishments.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Is it possible to look good on the outside but be very different on the inside? Think of a time when someone surprised you, either positively or negatively.
—Paul talks about how being religious on the outside isn't enough. God looks at our hearts.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 2:17-24. What is Paul saying to the Jews who relied on the law? What is the problem with boasting about the law but not obeying it?
—Paul is saying that just knowing the law isn't enough. The Jews were proud of having the law, but they weren't living up to it. It's like having a rule book and knowing all the rules, but never following them. Their hypocrisy brought shame on God's name among the Gentiles.
Read Romans 2:25-29. What does Paul say about circumcision? What is "circumcision of the heart"?
—Circumcision was a sign of God's covenant with the Jewish people. Paul says that outward circumcision is meaningless if the heart isn't right with God. "Circumcision of the heart" means a change of heart, a turning away from sin and a turning toward God. It's an inward transformation, not just an outward ritual.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 2:17-29), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that true righteousness comes from a changed heart, not
from simply following rules or outward rituals. The key takeaway is
that God cares more about our inner life than our outward
appearances. We should focus on developing a heart that is pleasing
to Him.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 2:17-29 challenges us to go beyond mere religious rituals or external actions. Paul is teaching that righteousness before God is not about appearances—it’s about the condition of our hearts. True circumcision, he says, is not a physical mark, but a spiritual transformation that happens deep within us. It’s about being “circumcised of the heart” by the Holy Spirit, where God changes us from the inside out.
When we think about living rightly before God, it’s easy to fall into the trap of focusing only on the rules and the external actions we take. But the heart of the gospel is this: God is after a relationship with us, one that transforms us from the inside. It’s not enough to simply act righteous; we must be righteous at the core. True righteousness is not about what others see; it’s about how God is working within us.
This passage invites us to check our hearts and ask ourselves: Are we simply going through the motions, or is our faith deeply rooted in a transformed heart? The good news is that God is in the business of changing hearts—no matter where we’ve been or what we’ve done, God desires to create in us a pure heart, one that desires His will above all else.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 2:17-29 reminds us that God looks at the heart. It's not enough to just go through the motions of religion. We need to allow God to change us from the inside out. Let's ask God to search our hearts and reveal any areas where we need to change. How can we cultivate a heart that is truly devoted to God?
Session 5: Romans 3:1-20 - The Universal Problem of Sin
Focus: Everyone is under sin, and no one is righteous.
READ: Romans 3:1-20
Purpose Statement: Paul underscores the universality of sin, explaining that both Jews and Gentiles alike are under the power of sin and cannot be justified by works of the law. This section sets the stage for the solution in Christ.
OVERVIEW
Romans 3:1-20 addresses the universal problem of sin, emphasizing that everyone is under sin and no one is righteous by their own efforts. Paul underscores the futility of relying on the law or one's own deeds for righteousness. This passage highlights humanity's inherent sinfulness and the necessity of God's grace for salvation.
Pivotal Verse: "There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God." - Romans 3:10-11
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 3:9, Paul writes, "What shall we conclude then? Do we have any advantage? Not at all! For we have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under the power of sin." This might surprise some readers because it reveals that Paul, a devout Jew, places both Jews and Gentiles on the same level of sinfulness. This challenges the notion that any particular group has an inherent advantage when it comes to righteousness.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing the universal nature of sin, stating that no one is exempt from its power. By declaring that both Jews and Gentiles are equally under sin, Paul underscores the need for God's grace and salvation for all humanity. This teaching highlights the futility of relying on religious heritage or personal efforts to achieve righteousness and points to the necessity of faith in God's redemptive work.
APPLYING: Romans 3:1-20 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 3:1-20 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of our own limitations and need for God's grace. It encourages us to approach God with humility, acknowledging our sinfulness and our dependence on His mercy and forgiveness. This teaching also challenges us to extend grace and compassion to others, recognizing that we are all in need of God's redemptive work.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Finding Forgiveness: Many people carry burdens of guilt and shame for their past actions. The gospel offers the hope of forgiveness and redemption through faith in Christ, allowing individuals to find peace and healing.
Building Community: The recognition that all people are equally in need of God's grace can foster a sense of unity and compassion within communities. By extending grace and support to one another, individuals can build strong, loving relationships.
Encouraging Humility: Understanding our own sinfulness and dependence on God's grace can lead to a posture of humility in our interactions with others. This humility can transform relationships, reducing conflict and promoting understanding and reconciliation.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever been in a situation where you thought you were doing everything right, only to realize you were missing something important? Perhaps you were following the rules, but your heart wasn't in the right place, or you were unaware of something that caused you to stumble. The truth is, we often miss the mark in ways we don't even realize.
In Romans 3:10-12, Paul writes, “As it is written: ‘There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.’” Paul makes it clear that no one escapes the grip of sin. This is a sobering thought, especially for those of us who may be tempted to think that our good deeds somehow make us right with God.
Sin is universal—it affects everyone. We all fall short of God’s perfect standard. Whether we are aware of it or not, we are all in need of God’s grace and forgiveness. The problem isn’t just with bad actions; it’s a deeper issue of the heart. As Paul puts it, we have all "turned away" and become separated from God. The reality of sin is not something that only affects certain people; it’s a condition we all share.
“Sin is not just about the bad things we do; it’s about the condition of the heart that needs to be healed.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are a few other scriptures that reflect the universal nature of sin and humanity’s need for righteousness:
Ecclesiastes
7:20: “Indeed,
there is no one on earth who is righteous, no one who does what is
right and never sins.”
This
verse mirrors Paul’s words in Romans, affirming that no one can
claim to be righteous on their own. We all fall short of God's
perfection.
Isaiah
64:6: “All
of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts
are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the
wind our sins sweep us away.”
Even
our best efforts, our good deeds, cannot stand before God’s perfect
holiness. Sin affects everything, even the “good” things we do.
Galatians
3:22: “But
Scripture has locked up everything under the control of sin, so that
what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might
be given to those who believe.”
This
verse shows that sin is a condition that affects everyone, but it
also points to the solution—faith in Jesus Christ.
1
John 1:8: “If
we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not
in us.”
John
emphasizes that denying our sinfulness is self-deception. We all need
God’s cleansing and forgiveness.
Romans
3:23: “For
all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
This
verse sums up the message of Romans 3 and the universal nature of
sin. Everyone has fallen short, and no one can stand righteous on
their own.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever made a mistake, even when you were trying your best to do what's right?
—Paul talks about how everyone sins, even religious people. It’s a universal human problem.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 3:1-8. What advantage did the Jewish people have? What was their responsibility because of this advantage? Does their unfaithfulness nullify God's faithfulness?
—The Jewish people had the great advantage of having God's Word, the Scriptures. Their responsibility was to be faithful to that Word and live it out. Paul makes it clear that their unfaithfulness does not make God unfaithful. God is always true to His promises.
Read Romans 3:9-18. What does Paul say about everyone – Jews and Gentiles? What Old Testament passages does he quote?
—Paul says that everyone is under the power of sin. No one is righteous, not even one. He quotes several Old Testament verses (from Psalms and Isaiah) to support this. It's a comprehensive indictment of humanity.
Read Romans 3:19-20. What is the purpose of the law? What does Paul mean by "through the law we become conscious of sin"?
—The law shows us our sin. It's like a mirror that reflects our flaws. It doesn't make us sinners, but it reveals that we are sinners. It makes us aware of our shortcomings and our need for a savior. The law cannot save us; it only shows us our need for salvation.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 3:1-20), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that everyone is a sinner and falls short of God's
perfect standard. No one can earn their way to God. The key
takeaway is that we all need God's grace and mercy. The law shows us
our need, but it has no power to save.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 3:1-20 presents a very clear and sometimes uncomfortable truth: no one is righteous, not even one. Sin isn’t just about our actions; it’s about the condition of our hearts and our separation from God. Whether we’re talking about the "big" sins or the "small" ones, the reality is that every one of us is in need of God’s grace.
This is an important realization because it removes any illusion that we can earn our way to righteousness. No matter how much we try, we can’t achieve perfection. The law, as Paul points out, only shows us how far we fall short—it cannot save us. We all have a universal problem: we are under sin.
But here’s the good news: the fact that we all share this problem is also the very reason we all have access to the same solution. The gospel tells us that no one is too far gone. The solution to sin is the same for everyone—Jesus Christ. His death and resurrection provide the only way for us to be made righteous before God, not because of our deeds, but because of His grace.
So, when we reflect on the reality of sin, let’s not despair but rejoice in the gift of salvation through Jesus. We’re all in the same boat, but we’re also all invited to receive the same grace. That’s the beauty of the gospel!CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 3:1-20 can be a difficult passage to consider because it confronts us with our own sinfulness. But it's a necessary step to understanding the good news of the Gospel. Recognizing our need for a Savior is essential to receiving God's gift of salvation. How does this understanding of our shared human condition prepare us for the message of hope in Christ?
Session 6: Romans 3:21-31 - Justification by Faith
Focus: Justification comes through faith in Jesus Christ.
READ: Romans 3:21-31
Purpose Statement: Paul introduces the good news of justification by faith. He explains that righteousness from God is revealed through faith in Jesus, and this justification is available to all who believe, not by law or works.
OVERVIEW
Romans 3:21-31 emphasizes that justification comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by observing the law. Paul explains that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, but are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. This passage underscores the central theme of the gospel: righteousness is a gift from God that we receive by faith.
Pivotal Verses: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." - Romans 3:23-24
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 3:25-26, Paul writes, "God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus." This might surprise some readers because it reveals that God, in His justice, passed over former sins until Christ's atonement. This demonstrates both God's righteousness and His mercy in providing a way for sinners to be justified.
Clarification: Paul is highlighting that God's plan for salvation was always centered on Jesus Christ. The sacrificial system of the Old Testament pointed forward to Christ's ultimate sacrifice, which would provide true atonement for sins. This teaching shows that God's righteousness is upheld through Jesus' sacrifice, and His mercy is extended to all who have faith in Jesus. It underscores the depth of God's love and the significance of Christ's redemptive work.
APPLYING: Romans 3:21-31 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 3:21-31 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the incredible gift of grace and the importance of faith in Jesus Christ. It encourages us to rely not on our own efforts, but on the finished work of Christ for our justification. This teaching also motivates us to share the message of God's grace with others, knowing that salvation is available to everyone through faith in Jesus.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Healing and Restoration: Individuals who have experienced brokenness and pain often find healing and restoration through faith in Christ. By accepting God's grace, they can move forward with hope and a renewed sense of purpose.
Forgiveness and Reconciliation: The gospel's message of forgiveness empowers people to let go of grudges and seek reconciliation with others. This power can mend relationships and bring peace to families and communities.
Empowerment for Change: Many people find the strength to overcome personal struggles and make positive changes in their lives through their faith in Christ. This empowerment often leads to healthier habits, improved relationships, and a greater sense of fulfillment.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Imagine you’re standing in a courtroom, facing charges for a crime you didn’t commit. The evidence is clear: you’re guilty. But just as the judge is about to pronounce the sentence, someone steps in—someone with the authority to clear your name, someone who takes the punishment you deserve. You’re set free, not because of anything you did, but because of the mercy and grace extended to you by the one who steps in on your behalf.
In Romans 3:24, Paul writes, “and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Justification means being declared righteous, even though we’re guilty. It’s a legal term, meaning that God, the righteous judge, declares us not guilty—not because of our actions, but because of Jesus’ perfect sacrifice on our behalf.
This is the heart of the gospel: we are justified by faith in Jesus Christ, and it’s nothing we can earn or deserve. No matter our past mistakes, failures, or sins, we are made right with God by placing our trust in Jesus. It’s a gift of grace, freely given, and nothing we do can change that. Justification by faith is not about following rules or traditions; it’s about a relationship with Jesus, who makes us right before God.
“Justification is not about being good enough for God; it’s about accepting God’s gift of grace through Jesus Christ.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are some other passages that align with the concept of justification by faith:
Ephesians
2:8-9: “For
it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not
from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one
can boast.”
This
verse echoes the message that salvation and justification are gifts
of God’s grace, received by faith, not something we can earn.
Galatians
2:16: “Know
that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith
in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that
we may be justified by faith and not by the works of the law; because
by the works of the law no one will be justified.”
Here,
Paul makes it clear that justification is through faith in Jesus
alone, not by adhering to the law.
Philippians
3:9: “And
be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from
the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the
righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.”
Paul
explains that our righteousness before God is not based on our
actions but on faith in Jesus.
Titus
3:5: “He
saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of
his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by
the Holy Spirit.”
Salvation
and justification are not based on our good deeds, but on God's mercy
and the work of the Holy Spirit.
Romans
5:1:
“Therefore,
since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God
through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
This
verse further emphasizes that justification is a result of faith, and
it brings peace with God.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: If you were to try to list all the good things you've done in your life, do you think that would be enough to earn God's approval?
—Paul explains that we can't earn God's approval through good works. It's a gift, and it comes through faith in Jesus.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 3:21-26. What does Paul mean by "righteousness apart from the law"? How is this righteousness made known? What is the role of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross?
—"Righteousness apart from the law" means that we can't earn God's approval by following the law perfectly. This righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is how God showed His justice and His love. Jesus paid the penalty for our sins, so that we could be made right with God. It’s like someone else paying your debt so you can go free.
Read Romans 3:27-31. Why can't we boast before God? What does Paul mean by "justified by faith apart from works"? Is God only the God of the Jews?
—We can't boast because our salvation is a gift. We didn't earn it. "Justified by faith apart from works" means that we are made right with God simply by believing in Jesus. It's not about what we do, but what Jesus has done for us. God is not just the God of the Jews, but of the Gentiles too. Salvation is available to everyone who believes.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 3:21-31), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that we are justified (made right with God) by faith in
Jesus Christ, not by our own efforts or by following the law. The
key takeaway is that salvation is a free gift, available to all who
believe.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 3:21-31 is one of the most foundational passages in the Bible when it comes to understanding the gospel. Paul explains that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, but through Jesus Christ, we are justified—declared righteous—by faith. This is the heart of the Christian message: we cannot make ourselves right with God by our own efforts, no matter how hard we try. Instead, justification is a free gift, offered through the grace of God and received by faith in Jesus.
This passage teaches us that our standing before God is not determined by how “good” we are or how many rules we follow, but by what Jesus has done for us. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about trusting in the perfect sacrifice of Jesus. And because of that, we can stand before God, not in fear, but in peace.
The beauty of justification by faith is that it levels the playing field. No one can boast or claim to have earned their righteousness. It’s all a gift. When we understand that we are justified by faith and not by works, it should humble us and fill us with gratitude. Our salvation is a work of God’s grace, and because of that, we are called to live in response to His love, sharing the good news of Jesus with others.
So, as you go through your week, remember: justification by faith means that no matter your past, your mistakes, or your shortcomings, you are made right with God through Jesus. It’s not about what you’ve done, but what He has done for you.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 3:21-31 is the heart of the Gospel message. It tells us that we can be forgiven and made right with God, not because of what we've done, but because of what Jesus has done for us. Let's rejoice in this wonderful gift of grace and share it with others. How does understanding justification by faith change how we view ourselves and others?
Session 7: Romans 4:1-25 - Abraham’s Faith as an Example
Focus: Faith, not works, justifies.
READ: Romans 4:1-25
Purpose Statement: Using Abraham as an example, Paul explains that righteousness comes by faith and not by works of the law. Abraham’s trust in God’s promises is a model for all believers, showing that faith has always been the way to receive God’s approval.
OVERVIEW
Romans 4:1-25 uses Abraham's faith as an example to demonstrate that justification comes through faith, not works. Paul explains that Abraham was declared righteous because of his faith, long before the law was given or he was circumcised. This passage highlights the foundational principle that righteousness is credited to those who believe in God, just as it was to Abraham.
Pivotal Verses: "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." - Romans 4:3
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 4:4-5, Paul writes, "Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation. However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness." This might surprise some readers because it challenges the common belief that one must earn righteousness through good works. Instead, Paul emphasizes that righteousness is a gift from God, received through faith.
Clarification: Paul is making a clear distinction between earning wages through work and receiving a gift through faith. He argues that righteousness cannot be earned by human efforts; rather, it is granted by God to those who trust in Him. This teaching underscores the importance of faith in God's promise and His ability to justify the ungodly. It reminds us that salvation is not about our achievements but about our reliance on God's grace.
APPLYING: Romans 4:1-25 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 4:1-25 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us to trust in God's promises and rely on His grace for our justification. It encourages us to follow the example of Abraham, who believed in God's faithfulness and was declared righteous because of his faith. This teaching also challenges us to let go of any belief that we can earn God's favor through our works and instead embrace the gift of righteousness through faith.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Trusting God's Promises: Individuals who face difficult circumstances often find strength and hope by trusting in God's promises, just as Abraham did. Their faith allows them to persevere and experience God's faithfulness in their lives.
Relying on Grace: People who have struggled with feelings of inadequacy or unworthiness can find peace in the message of justification by faith. Knowing that God's grace is sufficient, they can let go of the pressure to earn His favor and rest in His love.
Living by Faith: Many believers find that their faith in God's promises empowers them to live boldly and confidently. Their trust in God's provision and guidance allows them to take steps of faith, even when the path ahead is uncertain.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Imagine a time when you were waiting for something that seemed impossible to happen—maybe it was a long-awaited promise, or a dream that felt out of reach. As time passed, it became harder and harder to hold on to hope. What kept you going? Was it a deep sense of trust that, in the right time, things would work out?
In Romans 4, Paul points to Abraham as the perfect example of faith. Despite being promised by God that he would be the father of many nations, Abraham had no children and was far past the age when he could expect to become a father. But Abraham believed God, even when it seemed impossible. In Romans 4:3, Paul quotes Genesis 15:6: “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” It wasn’t Abraham’s actions or his ability to earn favor that justified him before God. It was his unwavering faith.
Abraham’s faith wasn’t just about believing in God’s promises—it was trusting that God was faithful to keep His word, no matter how long the wait or how impossible the circumstances appeared. His faith is a model for us. Just like Abraham, we are not justified by what we do or what we accomplish; we are justified by faith in God’s promises, especially in the promise of salvation through Jesus Christ.
“Faith is not about what we can do, but about trusting in what God has already done.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that reinforce the idea that faith, not works, justifies:
Genesis
15:6: “Abram
believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.”
This
is the original passage that Paul refers to in Romans 4. Abraham’s
faith in God’s promises was counted as righteousness.
Ephesians
2:8-9: “For
it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not
from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one
can boast.”
Like
Abraham, our salvation comes by faith, not by works. It is a gift,
not something we can earn.
Galatians
3:6-9: “So
also Abraham ‘believed God, and it was credited to him as
righteousness.’ Understand, then, that those who have faith are
children of Abraham. Scripture foresaw that God would justify the
Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham:
‘All nations will be blessed through you.’ So those who rely on
faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.”
This
passage connects believers in Christ to Abraham, showing that just as
Abraham was justified by faith, we are justified in the same way.
Romans
3:28: “For
we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works
of the law.”
This
reinforces the message that justification comes through faith, not by
following the law or performing works.
James
2:23: “And
the scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed God, and
it was credited to him as righteousness,’ and he was called God’s
friend.”
James
reiterates the same truth—Abraham’s faith was counted as
righteousness, showing that faith is the key to being justified
before God.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Think about someone you admire for their strong faith. What makes their faith so impressive?
—Paul uses Abraham, a figure most people know, as an example of what true faith looks like.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 4:1-5. What does Paul say about Abraham being justified by works? What does he mean by "faith is credited as righteousness"?
—Paul argues that Abraham wasn't justified by his works. If he were, he could boast. But Scripture says Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness. This means God declared Abraham righteous because of his faith, not because of his perfect obedience. It’s like God saying, “I see your faith, Abraham, and I accept it as if you had perfectly obeyed me.”
Read Romans 4:6-8. What does David say about the blessedness of the one whose sins are forgiven? How does this relate to Abraham?
—Paul quotes Psalm 32, which talks about the blessedness of forgiveness. David says it's a blessing to have sins forgiven, just as Abraham was blessed because of his faith. This reinforces the idea that justification is about God's grace, not our own merit.
Read Romans 4:9-12. Was Abraham's faith credited to him because he was circumcised? What was the purpose of circumcision?
—No, Abraham's faith was credited to him before he was circumcised. Circumcision was a sign of the righteousness he already had through faith. It was a seal, a confirmation, not the cause of his righteousness. It’s like a wedding ring; it symbolizes the marriage, but it doesn’t create it.
Read Romans 4:13-17. What promise did God make to Abraham? How did Abraham receive this promise?
—God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. Abraham received this promise through faith, not through the law. The law came much later. This shows that faith is the way to receive God's promises.
Read Romans 4:18-25. How did Abraham demonstrate his faith? What can we learn from Abraham's example?
—Abraham believed God even when it seemed impossible that he and Sarah could have a child. He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. He was fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. We can learn from Abraham that faith is about trusting God's promises, even when circumstances seem hopeless. It’s about believing in God’s power and goodness.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 4:1-25), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that justification is by faith, not by works. Abraham
is the perfect example of this. The key takeaway is that we can be
made right with God by trusting in His promises, just as Abraham did.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 4 is a beautiful reminder that faith, not works, justifies us before God. Abraham is held up as an example because he trusted God’s promises, even when it seemed impossible. His faith was counted as righteousness, not because of anything he did, but because he believed in God’s faithfulness. In the same way, we are justified by faith in Jesus Christ—not by our works, not by our achievements, but by trusting in God's grace and His promise of salvation.
It’s easy for us to fall into the trap of thinking we need to earn God’s favor by doing good things. But the story of Abraham reminds us that it’s not our works that make us right with God—it’s our faith. We can’t save ourselves through our efforts or good deeds, no matter how hard we try. Salvation is a gift from God, and it’s received through faith. Just like Abraham, we are called to trust in God’s promises and rely on His grace, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill what He has promised.
So, as you reflect on this truth, take a moment to ask yourself: Are there areas in your life where you're trying to earn God’s favor through your works? Are you trusting in His promises, or are you focused on your own efforts? Like Abraham, let us choose to believe God, even when the circumstances seem impossible, knowing that He will keep His word.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 4 reminds us that salvation is a gift, received through faith. It’s not about what we do, but what we believe. Let's follow Abraham's example and put our trust in God's promises. How does understanding justification by faith free us from trying to earn God's approval?
Session 8: Romans 5:1-11 - Peace with God Through Faith
Focus: The benefits of justification by faith.
READ: Romans 5:1-11
Purpose Statement: Paul elaborates on the results of being justified by faith, including peace with God, access to grace, and hope in future glory. He also discusses the role of Christ’s sacrifice in reconciling us to God while we were still sinners.
OVERVIEW
Romans 5:1-11 explores the benefits of justification by faith, highlighting the peace and reconciliation we have with God through Jesus Christ. Paul explains that because we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God, access to His grace, and the hope of sharing in His glory. This passage underscores the impact of God's love and the assurance we have as believers.
Pivotal Verses: "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God." - Romans 5:1-2
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 5:3-4, Paul writes, "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." This might surprise some readers because it suggests that suffering can lead to positive spiritual growth. Paul's perspective challenges the common notion that suffering is purely negative and highlights its potential to deepen our faith and character.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that through faith, even our sufferings can have a redemptive purpose. By trusting in God's presence and guidance during difficult times, we can develop perseverance, which in turn shapes our character and strengthens our hope in God's promises. This teaching encourages us to view challenges as opportunities for growth and to rely on God's grace through all circumstances.
APPLYING: Romans 5:1-11 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 5:1-11 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the incredible peace and hope we have through our faith in Jesus Christ. It encourages us to trust in God's love and grace, knowing that we are reconciled to Him and have access to His strength and guidance. This teaching also challenges us to embrace a positive outlook during difficult times, recognizing that God can use our sufferings to shape and refine our character.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Experiencing Inner Peace: Many believers testify to the sense of inner peace and assurance they experience through their faith in Christ. This peace transcends external circumstances and provides a stable foundation in times of trouble.
Hope in Difficult Times: People who face significant challenges, such as illness, loss, or hardship, often find hope and strength in their faith. Trusting in God's promises and presence helps them endure and find purpose in their suffering.
Transforming Relationships: The gospel's message of reconciliation with God can also transform relationships between individuals. By extending forgiveness and seeking reconciliation with others, believers can experience restored and strengthened relationships.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever experienced a moment when everything in your life seemed unsettled, and you longed for peace? Maybe there were worries, stresses, or even conflicts that left you feeling restless. Then, after finding a solution or coming to a resolution, you experienced a deep sense of peace—a peace that changed everything.
Romans 5:1 tells us that, through faith, we have “peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This peace is not just the absence of conflict; it’s the deep, settled assurance that, no matter what happens in life, we are right with God. Justification by faith gives us access to this peace, something we could never earn or create on our own. It is a gift that comes when we place our faith in Jesus Christ.
In Romans 5:2-5, Paul also talks about how this peace leads to a hope that does not disappoint. Even in suffering, we can rejoice because of the hope we have in Christ. Faith in Jesus brings not only peace but also endurance, character, and the ultimate hope of eternal life with God. The benefits of justification are not just for this life; they are eternal.
“Peace with God is the foundation of a transformed life, giving us hope in the midst of trials and joy in the journey.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that reinforce the benefits of justification by faith:
Philippians
4:7: “And
the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your
hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
This
peace, which comes from God, guards our hearts and minds, reminding
us that God’s peace is beyond human comprehension.
John
14:27: “Peace
I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the
world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be
afraid.”
Jesus
promises peace that the world cannot offer—peace that comes from
knowing Him and being reconciled with God.
Colossians
1:20:
“and
through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on
earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on
the cross.”
Jesus’
sacrifice on the cross made peace between God and humanity, bringing
reconciliation through His blood.
Romans
8:1 “Therefore,
there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ
Jesus.”
Justification
by faith means we are no longer under condemnation, and instead, we
live in the peace of knowing that God accepts us.
Titus
3:7: “So
that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs
having the hope of eternal life.”
Justification
by grace brings us not only peace with God but the promise of eternal
life, making us heirs to God’s kingdom.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever had a really big weight lifted off your shoulders? Like a huge burden just disappeared? How did that feel?
Practical Example: Imagine carrying a heavy bag of groceries all the way home. Then, you finally get to put it down. Relief! That's kind of like what happens when we understand what faith in Jesus does for us. It takes a huge weight of guilt and worry away.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 5:1: "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." What does it mean to be "justified"? Think of it like this: If you were in court and the judge said you were "not guilty," you'd be justified. God declares us "not guilty" because of Jesus.
—Justification isn't something we earn. It's a free gift from God. It's based on what Jesus did for us on the cross, not on anything we've done. It makes us right with God.
Read Romans 5:2: "through whom we have gained access into this grace in which we now stand; and we boast in the hope of the glory of God." What is "grace"? How is it different from earning something?
—Grace is God's undeserved kindness. It's like a gift you didn't earn and could never earn. We "stand" in this grace, meaning we are secure in it. "Glory of God" refers to being in heaven with God.
Read Romans 5:3-5: "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit he has given us." Why does Paul say we can "glory in our sufferings"? Does this mean we should like suffering?
—Paul isn't saying suffering is fun. He's saying that even in hard times, God is working. Suffering can make us stronger and help us rely on God more. It builds our character and gives us hope. That hope is based on God's love, which is always with us through the Holy Spirit.
Read Romans 5:6-8: "You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though perhaps for a good person someone might dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." What does this tell us about how much God loves us?
—God's love is huge! He loved us even when we were far from Him and had done nothing to deserve it. This shows how amazing and selfless His love is. It wasn't based on our goodness, but on His goodness.
Read Romans 5:9-11: "Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, now that we have been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation." What does it mean to be “reconciled” to God?
—Reconciliation means our broken relationship with God is fixed. Before, we were separated from Him because of sin. Now, through Jesus, we are brought back into a relationship with God, and He is no longer our enemy but our friend. This gives us reason to "boast" (rejoice) in God.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 5:1-11 highlights the incredible benefits that come from being justified by faith. When we trust in Jesus Christ, we are granted peace with God—an inner peace that transforms our hearts and minds. This peace isn’t just about the absence of turmoil; it’s about being in a right relationship with God, free from the guilt and condemnation of sin.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Paul tells us that this peace leads to hope—hope that we can hold on to in times of suffering, knowing that our trials produce perseverance, and perseverance develops character. This process ultimately leads to a deeper, more secure hope in God’s promises. We are reminded that, while suffering may be part of our journey, it is not in vain. God uses it to refine our faith and draw us closer to Him.
The beauty of justification by faith is that it’s not just for the future—it impacts our present lives as well. In Christ, we have peace now, not just when we get to heaven. We can experience the joy of being reconciled with God and the hope that, regardless of life’s circumstances, we are secure in His love and grace.
So, as you go about your day, remember that peace with God is one of the greatest gifts of faith. Let it be a source of strength and hope, no matter what challenges or trials you may face. You are at peace with God because of Jesus Christ, and that peace will never fade away.
Closing: Take a moment to think about the heavy bag example from the beginning. We were carrying a heavy burden of guilt and sin. Because of what Jesus did, that burden is lifted. We have peace with God, access to His grace, and the hope of eternal life. Let's thank God for this amazing gift.
Session 9: Romans 5:12-21 - Adam and Christ: Two Paths of Humanity
Focus: Sin and death through Adam; grace and life through Christ.
READ: Romans 5:12-21
Purpose Statement: Paul contrasts Adam and Christ, showing how sin entered the world through Adam, bringing death, but grace and life come through Jesus Christ. This teaches how Christ’s gift is greater than Adam’s fall.
OVERVIEW
Romans 5:12-21 contrasts the paths of humanity through Adam and Christ. Paul explains that sin and death entered the world through Adam's disobedience, while grace and life are brought through Christ's obedience. This passage highlights the profound impact of Christ's redemptive work and the power of God's grace, offering a clear distinction between the consequences of sin and the gift of salvation.
Pivotal Verse: "For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous." - Romans 5:19
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 5:20, Paul writes, "The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more." This might surprise some readers because it suggests that the law, which reveals and magnifies sin, also sets the stage for an even greater display of God's grace. Paul's perspective challenges the notion that the law alone can bring righteousness and instead highlights the overwhelming power of God's grace to overcome sin.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that the law reveals the extent of human sinfulness, making people aware of their need for God's grace. As sin becomes more apparent, God's grace is shown to be even more powerful and abundant. This teaching emphasizes that no matter how great our sins, God's grace is always greater and sufficient to bring forgiveness and redemption. It reminds us of the boundless love and mercy that God offers through Christ.
APPLYING: Romans 5:12-21 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 5:12-21 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the stark contrast between the consequences of sin and the gift of grace through Christ. It encourages us to embrace the new life and righteousness that Christ offers and to live in the freedom and hope that comes from His grace. This teaching also challenges us to share the message of God's abundant grace with others, knowing that His love and mercy can overcome any sin.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Freedom from Guilt: Individuals who have been burdened by guilt and shame can find freedom and forgiveness through Christ's grace. By accepting His gift of salvation, they experience a profound sense of release and renewal.
Healing and Transformation: People who have experienced deep wounds and brokenness often find healing and transformation through their faith in Christ. The power of God's grace brings restoration and a new sense of purpose.
Hope in Despair: The gospel's message of grace and life through Christ offers hope to those facing despair and hopelessness. Believers can find strength and encouragement in knowing that God's grace is always available to sustain and uplift them.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Imagine you are at a crossroads, standing at a choice between two paths. One path leads to destruction, filled with hardships, death, and regret. The other leads to life, hope, and peace, offering a future filled with promise. Every day, each of us faces choices, but there are also paths that we inherit—paths that were chosen before us, paths that impact our lives and those around us.
Romans 5:12-21 contrasts two figures—Adam and Christ—each representing a distinct path for humanity. Through Adam’s sin, all of humanity inherited death and separation from God. Romans 5:12 says, “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.” Adam's choice to disobey God led to the spread of sin and death to every person. But through Jesus Christ, the second Adam, grace and life come to all who believe. “For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!” (Romans 5:17).
This passage draws a powerful contrast between the devastating consequences of sin and the amazing grace found in Christ. While Adam’s action brought death, Christ’s sacrifice brings life and righteousness. It’s as though we’ve been given a new opportunity to choose life—not based on our efforts, but because of what Jesus has done for us.
“The choice between Adam and Christ is not a matter of what we can do; it is about what God has done for us.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that reinforce the message of the two paths of humanity:
Genesis
3:6: “When
the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and
pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took
some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her,
and he ate it.”
The
first sin, committed by Adam and Eve, brought sin and death into the
world. This is the origin of the path of destruction that humanity
inherited.
1
Corinthians 15:21-22: “For
since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes
also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be
made alive.”
This
passage reinforces the idea that just as all are affected by Adam’s
sin, all who are in Christ receive the gift of life through His
resurrection.
1
Corinthians 15:45: “So
it is written: ‘The first man Adam became a living being’; the
last Adam, a life-giving spirit.”
Christ
is the "last Adam," offering life and grace where the first
Adam brought death.
Romans
6:23: “For
the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in
Christ Jesus our Lord.”
This
verse sums up the two contrasting paths: death through sin and life
through Jesus.
John
5:24: “Very
truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me
has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from
death to life.”
Jesus
speaks about crossing from death to life, something made possible
through Him alone.
LEAD-IN QUESTION:
Question: Have you ever experienced a sense of deep peace, a feeling that everything is right? What brought you that peace?
—Paul talks about the peace we can have with God through faith in Jesus. It's a peace that goes deeper than anything else.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 5:1-2. What benefits do we receive because we have been justified by faith? What does it mean to have "access to this grace"?
—Because we have been made right with God through faith, we have peace with Him. We also have access to His grace, which is His undeserved kindness and love. "Access" means we can come to God freely and confidently. It’s like having an all-access pass.
Read Romans 5:3-5. What does Paul say about suffering? How does it lead to hope? What role does the Holy Spirit play?
—Paul says that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces character, and character produces hope. It's a process. Suffering can be difficult, but it can also make us stronger and more reliant on God. The Holy Spirit fills our hearts with God's love, which gives us hope even in hard times.
Read Romans 5:6-8. What does Paul say about Christ's death for us? How does this demonstrate God's love?
—Christ died for us while we were still sinners, weak and helpless. This shows the immensity of God's love. It wasn’t because we deserved it; it was an act of pure grace.
Read Romans 5:9-11. What does Paul say we are now saved from? What does he mean by "reconciliation"?
—We are saved from God's wrath, from the just punishment for our sins. "Reconciliation" means being brought back into a right relationship with God. We were once enemies of God because of our sin, but through Christ, we are now His friends.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 5:1-11), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is to show us the wonderful blessings that come from being
justified by faith. We have peace with God, access to His grace,
hope in suffering, and salvation from His wrath. The key takeaway is
that through faith in Jesus, we have a restored relationship with God
and a secure hope for the future.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 5:12-21 presents a stark choice between two paths: the path of Adam, which leads to sin, death, and separation from God, and the path of Christ, which leads to grace, life, and reconciliation with God. Through Adam, all humanity inherits the consequences of sin—death, suffering, and separation from God. But through Christ, we receive the gift of grace, which brings us eternal life and the righteousness of God.
The contrast between Adam and Christ shows us the magnitude of what Jesus has done for us. Where Adam’s disobedience brought ruin to the human race, Christ’s obedience brought hope and restoration. The grace we receive through Jesus is a gift—it cannot be earned by our actions, but is freely given to those who accept it by faith.
As we reflect on this passage, it’s important to recognize that we each have a choice. While we inherit the consequences of Adam’s sin, we also have the opportunity to receive the gift of life in Christ. Jesus made it possible for us to leave behind the path of destruction and walk in the path of righteousness, hope, and eternal life.
So, as you go through your day, think about which path you’re walking. Are you living in the light of Christ’s grace, or are you still burdened by the consequences of sin? In Christ, we find not only forgiveness but a new life—one that is full of hope and the promise of eternal life with God.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 5:1-11 reminds us of the incredible benefits of being justified by faith. Let's rejoice in the peace we have with God, the hope we have for the future, and the amazing love that He has shown us through Jesus Christ. How does knowing these benefits change how we live our lives?
Session 10: Romans 6:1-14 - Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ
Focus: New life in Christ through baptism.
READ: Romans 6:1-14
Purpose Statement: Paul explains that believers, through baptism, identify with Christ’s death and resurrection. As a result, we are no longer slaves to sin but are freed to live new lives in Christ, empowered to walk in righteousness.
OVERVIEW
Romans 6:1-14 discusses the power of baptism, symbolizing our death to sin and new life in Christ. Paul explains that through baptism, believers are united with Christ in His death and resurrection, freeing them from the power of sin and enabling them to live a new life of righteousness. This passage emphasizes the importance of embracing our new identity in Christ and living out the reality of our baptism.
Pivotal Verses: "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." - Romans 6:4
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 6:6-7, Paul writes, "For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—because anyone who has died has been set free from sin." This might surprise some readers because it suggests that our old sinful nature was crucified with Christ, breaking the power of sin over our lives. Paul's perspective challenges the notion that believers remain bound by their sinful nature and highlights the liberating effect of Christ's death and resurrection.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing that baptism signifies a profound spiritual transformation. By being united with Christ in His death, our old sinful nature is put to death, and we are set free from the dominion of sin. This teaching underscores the reality that believers are no longer slaves to sin but are empowered to live a new life of righteousness through the resurrection power of Christ. It reminds us of the significance of our baptism and the ongoing work of sanctification in our lives.
APPLYING: Romans 6:1-14 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 6:1-14 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of our new identity in Christ and the freedom we have from sin. It encourages us to live out the reality of our baptism, embracing our new life of righteousness and rejecting the old ways of sin. This teaching also challenges us to rely on the power of Christ's resurrection to overcome sin and live in obedience to God's will.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Breaking Free from Sinful Patterns: Individuals who have struggled with destructive behaviors and sinful patterns often find freedom through their faith in Christ. By embracing their new identity in Christ and relying on His power, they can break free from the grip of sin and live transformed lives.
Living with Purpose: Many believers find renewed purpose and direction through their new life in Christ. Their faith empowers them to pursue meaningful goals and live in alignment with God's will, making a positive impact on their communities.
Overcoming Temptation: People who face ongoing temptations and challenges often find strength and victory through their relationship with Christ. By remembering their baptism and the power of Christ's resurrection, they can resist temptation and live in obedience to God's commands.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever experienced a new beginning—whether it was a fresh start in a relationship, a new job, or a time of personal growth where you felt like a new person? The old ways of thinking and living were behind you, and a new chapter had begun. There’s something powerful about stepping into a new season where everything feels renewed.
Romans 6:4 speaks about a similar kind of newness: “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Through baptism, we are symbolically united with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. It represents the end of our old life of sin and the beginning of a new life in Christ.
Baptism is not just a physical act; it’s a spiritual reality. When we are baptized, we are saying goodbye to the old way of life—our old nature and habits that are enslaved to sin—and we are embracing the new life that Christ offers. We are no longer bound by sin but are free to live for God, walking in His grace and truth.
“Baptism is not just a sign of washing, it is a declaration of newness of life, where the old self is left behind, and a new self is raised up in Christ.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that reinforce the idea of new life in Christ through baptism:
2
Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore,
if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone,
the new is here!”
Baptism
symbolizes this transformation, as we are made new in Christ.
Colossians
2:12: “having
been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with
him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the
dead.”
This
verse echoes Romans 6:4, showing the connection between baptism and
the resurrection life of Christ.
Galatians
3:27: “for
all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with
Christ.”
Through
baptism, we put on Christ and take on His righteousness, leaving
behind the old self.
Titus
3:5: “he
saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of
his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by
the Holy Spirit.”
Baptism
is not just an outward washing; it signifies an inward renewal
through the Holy Spirit.
Matthew
28:19: “Therefore
go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of
the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Jesus’
command to baptize reflects the importance of baptism as a key aspect
of the Christian faith and new life in Christ.
LEAD-IN QUESTION:
Question: Have you ever noticed how one person's actions can have a big impact on others, sometimes even for generations?
—Paul talks about how Adam's sin affected all of humanity, and how Jesus' sacrifice offers a new path.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 5:12-14. How did sin enter the world? What does Paul mean by "death reigned from the time of Adam to Moses"?
—Sin entered the world through one man, Adam, and through sin came death. Death reigned from Adam to Moses, even before the law was given, because everyone sinned. It's not just about breaking rules; it's about a broken relationship with God.
Read Romans 5:15-17. How does Paul contrast Adam's transgression with the gift of God's grace? What does he mean by "abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness"?
—Adam's one sin brought condemnation to all people. But God's grace is much greater! The free gift of righteousness through Jesus Christ brings justification and life to all who receive it. It’s not a balanced equation; God's grace far outweighs the consequences of Adam's sin.
Read Romans 5:18-19. What are the results of Adam's sin and Christ's act of righteousness?
—One sin brought condemnation for all. One act of righteousness (Jesus' sacrifice) brings justification and life for all who believe. It’s a simple but profound comparison.
Read Romans 5:20-21. What was the purpose of the law? What is the result of grace?
—The law was given so that people would become more aware of their sin. It wasn't meant to save them, but to show them their need for a Savior. Where sin increased, grace increased all the more! So that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Grace triumphs over sin!
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 5:12-21), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is to contrast the effects of Adam's sin with the gift of
God's grace through Jesus Christ. Sin brought death, but grace
brings life. The key takeaway is that we are all born into a sinful
condition because of Adam, but through faith in Jesus, we can receive
the free gift of eternal life.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 6:1-14 is a powerful reminder of what baptism represents in the life of a believer. Baptism is not just a ritual; it is a symbol of our identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. When we are baptized, we are publicly declaring that we are no longer slaves to sin but have been set free to live a new life in Christ. The old has passed away, and the new has come!
This passage calls us to consider the reality of our new life. As Paul asks in verse 2, “We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?” Baptism marks a decisive moment when we are called to leave behind our old sinful nature and embrace the new identity we have in Christ. We are no longer defined by sin but by our relationship with Jesus.
Living out this new life means that we walk daily in the freedom Christ has given us. It means choosing to live for God, not for sin. It means remembering that, just as Christ was raised to new life, we too have been raised with Him to walk in the power of His resurrection.
As you reflect on baptism, consider how it symbolizes not just the washing away of sin, but the beginning of a transformed life. Through Christ, we are made new, and we are called to live in that newness every day. This is the promise of baptism: we are dead to sin and alive in Christ. And as we live out this truth, we reflect the glory of God’s grace and power in our lives.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 5:12-21 reminds us of the incredible gift of grace that God has given us through Jesus Christ. We are no longer bound by the consequences of Adam's sin. Let's rejoice in the life and hope that we have in Christ. How does understanding this contrast between Adam and Christ impact our daily lives?
Session 11: Romans 6:15-23 - Slaves to Righteousness
Focus: Freedom from sin leads to servanthood to righteousness.
READ: Romans 6:15-23
Purpose Statement: Paul teaches that believers are no longer slaves to sin but are now called to be slaves of righteousness. True freedom is found in living for God, yielding to Him, and living out holiness.
OVERVIEW
Romans 6:15-23 discusses the concept of becoming "slaves to righteousness" after being set free from sin. Paul explains that while we were once slaves to sin, obeying its desires, we are now called to be slaves to righteousness, leading to holiness and eternal life. This passage emphasizes the power of God's grace, which not only liberates us from the bondage of sin but also empowers us to live lives that honor God.
Pivotal Verses: "But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 6:22-23
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 6:19, Paul writes, "I am using an example from everyday life because of your human limitations. Just as you used to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness." This might surprise some readers because it challenges the notion of freedom by presenting the idea that we are always serving a master, whether it be sin or righteousness. Paul's perspective reframes our understanding of true freedom as being found in servanthood to God.
Clarification: Paul is using the concept of slavery metaphorically to illustrate the stark contrast between serving sin and serving righteousness. When we were slaves to sin, our lives were characterized by impurity and increasing wickedness. However, through God's grace, we have been set free from sin and are now called to serve righteousness, which leads to holiness and eternal life. This teaching emphasizes that true freedom is found in aligning our lives with God's will and living in obedience to His righteous standards.
APPLYING: Romans 6:15-23 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 6:15-23 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the importance of choosing to live as "slaves to righteousness." It encourages us to surrender our desires and actions to God's will, allowing His grace to transform us and guide us towards holiness. This teaching also challenges us to be mindful of the influences we allow in our lives and to actively pursue a lifestyle that honors God.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Transformation from Addiction: Individuals who have struggled with addiction often find freedom and new purpose through their faith in Christ. By surrendering their lives to God's will, they experience transformation and are empowered to live in righteousness, breaking free from the bondage of addiction.
Commitment to Holiness: Believers who commit to living holy lives often make intentional choices to align their actions with God's standards. This commitment leads to positive changes in their behavior, relationships, and overall well-being.
Impact on Others: People who live as "slaves to righteousness" often have a positive influence on those around them. Their lives reflect the power of God's grace, inspiring others to seek a relationship with Christ and pursue righteousness.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
What does it mean to be truly free? In our world, freedom is often thought of as the ability to do whatever we want. But true freedom in Christ is not about being free to do whatever we desire; it’s about being set free from the power of sin and choosing to live for righteousness.
Romans 6:18 says, “You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.” This may seem like a paradox—freedom leading to servitude. However, this passage helps us see that while we were once enslaved to sin, now we are called to be “slaves” or servants to righteousness, living in a way that honors God.
In Christ, we are set free, but that freedom doesn’t mean we’re free to live for ourselves; it means we are free to live for God. Just as we once eagerly followed sin, we are now called to eagerly pursue righteousness. Our old master, sin, once controlled us, but now we have a new master—righteousness, which leads to eternal life.
“True freedom is not the absence of responsibility, but the ability to serve the right master.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that reinforce the idea of being free from sin and becoming servants to righteousness:
John
8:34-36: “Jesus
replied, ‘Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to
sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son
belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free
indeed.’”
Jesus
offers true freedom, freedom from sin and the freedom to live as
children of God.
Galatians
5:1: “It
is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do
not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
Christ
has set us free from the bondage of sin, and we are called to live
out that freedom in Him.
1
Peter 2:16: “Live
as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil;
live as God’s slaves.”
This
reinforces the idea that freedom in Christ leads to servanthood—not
for sin, but for righteousness.
Romans
8:2: “Because
through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you
free from the law of sin and death.”
Christ
has freed us from the law of sin, offering us life through the Holy
Spirit.
Titus
2:14: “Who
gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify
for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is
good.”
Christ
redeemed us not just to set us free, but to purify us so that we
eagerly serve righteousness.
LEAD-IN QUESTION:
Question: If someone offered you complete freedom from a difficult or burdensome responsibility, how would you use that newfound freedom?
—Paul talks about being freed from sin. He explains what that means for how we should live our lives.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 6:15-18. Since we are under grace and not law, does that mean we can just go on sinning? What is Paul's response? What does it mean to be "slaves to righteousness"?
—Absolutely not! Just because we're forgiven doesn't mean we have a license to sin. Paul says we become slaves to whatever we obey. If we keep sinning, we're still slaves to sin. But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves to sin have become obedient from the heart to the pattern of teaching to which you were entrusted. Being "slaves to righteousness" means choosing to obey God and live a righteous life. It’s not a burdensome slavery, but a liberating one. It's choosing the right master.
Read Romans 6:19-23. Paul contrasts slavery to sin with slavery to righteousness. What are the results of each? What is the end result of righteousness?
—Slavery to sin leads to death. It’s a dead-end road. Slavery to righteousness leads to holiness, and the end result is eternal life. It’s a path that leads to true life and joy.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 6:15-23), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that being freed from sin means we should now choose to
live a life of righteousness. It’s not just about being forgiven;
it’s about living differently. The key takeaway is that true
freedom in Christ leads to a life of service to God and
righteousness.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 6:15-23 teaches us that freedom from sin is not a license to live in self-indulgence or to return to old ways. Instead, the freedom we receive in Christ is freedom to serve righteousness. As Paul points out in verse 22, “But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life.”
The idea of being a “slave” to something is often seen negatively, but Paul flips that concept on its head by showing that being a servant of righteousness is the pathway to true freedom. Before Christ, we were enslaved to sin, and that led to death and destruction. But now, in Christ, we are free to live in the service of righteousness, which brings us life—eternal life with God.
This passage challenges us to consider whom we are serving. Are we still living under the power of sin, or have we chosen to live under the freedom that Christ offers? True freedom is the ability to live for God, to serve His purposes, and to bear the fruit of holiness. Our new life in Christ is not about doing whatever we please; it is about being a servant of righteousness, a servant of the One who has given us new life.
As you go through your week, remember that you have been set free from sin. Your freedom is not to be used for selfish desires, but to serve God with all your heart, soul, and mind. Choose to live as a servant of righteousness, and allow the fruit of that service to lead you to eternal life.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 6:15-23 reminds us that our freedom from sin is not a freedom to sin. It’s a freedom to live a new life, a life devoted to God and righteousness. How can we actively choose to be “slaves to righteousness” in our daily lives?
Session 12: Romans 7:1-6 - Released from the Law
Focus: The believer’s relationship to the law has changed.
READ: Romans 7:1-6
Purpose Statement: Paul explains that believers are no longer bound by the law, symbolized by death to the old way. Through Christ, believers are now free to live in the newness of the Spirit, rather than under the old written code.
OVERVIEW
Romans 7:1-6 addresses the believer's new relationship to the law, explaining that we have been released from the law through our union with Christ. Paul uses the analogy of marriage to illustrate that just as a spouse is freed from the legal obligations of marriage upon the death of their partner, believers are freed from the law through their death to it in Christ. This passage highlights the impact of Christ's work, enabling believers to serve God in the new way of the Spirit rather than the old way of the written code.
Pivotal Verses: "So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God." - Romans 7:4
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 7:5-6, Paul writes, "For when we were in the realm of the flesh, the sinful passions aroused by the law were at work in us, so that we bore fruit for death. But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code." This might surprise some readers because it suggests that the law, which was intended to guide righteousness, actually aroused sinful passions. Paul's perspective challenges the notion that the law alone can lead to righteousness and highlights the need for the work of the Spirit.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that the law, while good and holy, was limited in its ability to produce true righteousness because it could not change the human heart. Instead, the law often revealed and even intensified our sinful nature. However, through Christ's death and resurrection, believers are freed from the law's constraints and empowered to serve God through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This teaching emphasizes the importance of living by the Spirit, which brings true transformation and enables us to bear fruit for God.
APPLYING: Romans 7:1-6 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 7:1-6 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of our new relationship with the law through Christ. It encourages us to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and transformation, rather than trying to achieve righteousness through our own efforts. This teaching also challenges us to embrace our freedom in Christ and to live in a way that bears fruit for God, reflecting the new life we have received through His Spirit.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Living by the Spirit: Believers who rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit often experience profound transformation in their lives. By seeking the Spirit's direction, they are empowered to overcome sinful habits and live in alignment with God's will.
Freedom from Legalism: Individuals who have struggled with legalistic approaches to faith often find freedom through their relationship with Christ. Embracing the new way of the Spirit allows them to experience God's grace and live out their faith with joy and authenticity.
Bearing Fruit for God: Many Christians find that their lives become more fruitful when they serve in the new way of the Spirit. Their actions, motivated by the Spirit's guidance, lead to positive impacts in their communities and a deeper sense of fulfillment in their walk with God.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Imagine being bound by a heavy weight, something that constantly drags you down and holds you back. This weight represents the law—the rules, regulations, and expectations that tell us how we should live. For a long time, this weight was something we couldn’t escape. It defined us, dictated our actions, and reminded us of our failures.
But what if someone came along and released us from that weight, offering freedom from the law’s demands and consequences? That’s the picture Paul paints in Romans 7:4 when he writes, “So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God.”
Through Christ’s death and resurrection, believers are no longer bound by the law. We have been released from its power. This doesn’t mean the law is bad, but rather that Christ fulfilled the law on our behalf. We are now free to live for God, bearing fruit through the Holy Spirit, not out of obligation to the law, but because of our love for Christ.
“The law was never meant to be a means of salvation, but a way to show us our need for a Savior.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that reinforce the idea that the believer’s relationship to the law has changed:
Romans
6:14: “For
sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the
law, but under grace.”
This
verse echoes the truth that believers are no longer under the
dominion of the law, but under God’s grace, which gives us the
power to live differently.
Galatians
2:19-20: “For
through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. I
have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ
lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the
Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Paul
here describes how he has died to the law and now lives by faith in
Christ, illustrating the new relationship believers have with the
law.
Romans
10:4: “Christ
is the culmination of the law so that there may be righteousness for
everyone who believes.”
Christ
is the fulfillment of the law, and through faith in Him, we receive
righteousness apart from the law.
2
Corinthians 3:6: “He
has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the
letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives
life.”
This
verse highlights the contrast between the old covenant (the law) and
the new covenant (the Spirit), which gives believers new life through
Christ.
Colossians
2:13-14: “When
you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh,
God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having
canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us
and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the
cross.”
Christ
has freed us from the legal requirements of the law and its
condemnation by paying the debt through His crucifixion.
LEAD-IN QUESTION:
Question: Think about a time when you were bound by a certain rule or obligation. How did it feel when you were finally released from it?
—Paul talks about how believers are no longer bound by the law in the same way they once were. It’s like being released from a contract.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 7:1-4. What illustration does Paul use to explain our relationship to the law? What happens when a husband dies? How does this apply to us and the law?
—Paul uses the illustration of marriage. A woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives, but when he dies, she is free from that obligation. Similarly, we were bound to the law, but through Christ's death, we have died to the law, so that we are now free to belong to Christ. It’s not that the law is bad, but that it no longer has the power to condemn us.
Read Romans 7:5. What was life like when we were "in the flesh"? What did the law stir up?
—When we were "in the flesh," meaning living according to our sinful nature, the law stirred up sinful desires within us. The law showed us what sin was, but it also seemed to make us want to do those very things. It's like telling someone not to think about a pink elephant; it makes them think about it even more.
Read Romans 7:6. How has our relationship to the law changed now? What does Paul mean by "the new way of the Spirit"?
—Now, we have been released from the law. We are no longer under its condemnation. We serve God in "the new way of the Spirit," meaning we are led by the Holy Spirit, not by the letter of the law. It’s about an inward change, a desire to obey God from the heart, not just following rules outwardly.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 7:1-6), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that believers are no longer bound by the law in the
same way they once were. Through Christ's death, we have been freed
from the law's condemnation and are now empowered by the Spirit to
live a life that pleases God. The key takeaway is that our
relationship with God is now based on grace and the Spirit, not on
legalistic obedience.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 7:1-6 tells us that our relationship to the law has completely changed because of Christ. In the past, the law held us captive, showing us our sin and leaving us with no way to escape its demands. But through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the law’s power to condemn has been broken. We have died to the law, and now, in Christ, we are free to live in a new way.
This freedom does not mean that we are free to live however we want. Instead, it means that we are free to live for God, no longer bound by the law’s demands but empowered by the Holy Spirit to bear fruit for Him. Our relationship with the law is no longer one of trying to earn favor with God by following rules; instead, it is about living out the love, grace, and freedom that Christ has given us.
As you reflect on this passage, think about how Christ has changed your relationship with the law. No longer do you live in fear of condemnation because of your failures to measure up. Instead, you live by the grace of God, empowered to live a new life—one that bears fruit for Him and reflects the love of Christ. This is the beauty of the gospel: we are set free from the law’s condemnation, and we are now called to live for God in the freedom of Christ.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 7:1-6 reminds us that we are no longer under the condemnation of the law. We are free to live a new life in Christ, led by the Holy Spirit. Let's rejoice in this freedom and seek to live lives that honor God. How does understanding our freedom from the law change how we approach our relationship with God?
Session 13: Romans 7:7-25 - Struggling with Sin
Focus: The internal battle between the flesh and the Spirit.
READ: Romans 7:7-25
Purpose Statement: Paul honestly discusses the struggle between the desire to do good and the temptation to sin. This section emphasizes the reality of the Christian’s struggle, but points to Christ as the ultimate deliverer from this inner conflict.
OVERVIEW
Romans 7:7-25 explores the internal struggle between the flesh and the Spirit, highlighting the apostle Paul's personal battle with sin. Paul discusses the role of the law in revealing sin and the ongoing tension between his desire to do what is right and the sinful nature that opposes it. This passage emphasizes the reality of the believer's struggle with sin and the need for God's grace and deliverance through Jesus Christ.
Pivotal Verses: "For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it." - Romans 7:19-20
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 7:14-15, Paul writes, "We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do." This might surprise some readers because it reveals the profound internal conflict that even a devoted apostle like Paul experienced. Paul's honest admission challenges the notion that spiritual maturity eliminates the struggle with sin and highlights the ongoing need for God's grace.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing that the law is good and holy, but it cannot overcome the power of sin within us. The internal struggle he describes reflects the tension between the renewed mind that desires to follow God's law and the sinful nature that resists it. This teaching underscores the importance of relying on God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin. It reminds us that the struggle with sin is a common experience for all believers and that victory comes through Jesus Christ.
APPLYING: Romans 7:7-25 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 7:7-25 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the reality of the internal struggle with sin and the importance of relying on God's grace. It encourages us to be honest about our struggles and to seek God's help in overcoming them. This teaching also challenges us to recognize that spiritual growth is a journey and that we are not alone in our battles with sin.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Overcoming Personal Struggles: Many believers find that being open about their struggles with sin helps them receive the support and encouragement they need. Through prayer, accountability, and reliance on God's grace, they experience victories over their sinful habits.
Living in Transparency: People who live transparently about their weaknesses often find deeper connections within their faith communities. Their honesty fosters an environment of mutual support and growth, where others feel safe to share their own struggles.
Relying on God's Grace: Believers who understand the importance of relying on God's grace often experience a profound sense of peace and assurance. They recognize that their strength comes from God, not their own efforts, and this perspective transforms their approach to overcoming sin.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever felt caught in a struggle—knowing the right thing to do, yet finding yourself doing the opposite? Perhaps you promised yourself to avoid a certain habit, but somehow, you end up giving in. This internal struggle is something many of us can relate to, and it’s exactly what Paul describes in Romans 7:15: “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.”
Paul’s honest confession in this passage helps us realize that even the apostle struggled with sin. He recognized the battle between the desire to live according to God’s will (the spirit) and the pull of his sinful nature (the flesh). This battle is ongoing for every believer. Even though we have been saved by grace, we continue to wrestle with the old nature that still tries to exert control over us.
But Paul doesn’t leave us without hope. He concludes by pointing to the victory we have in Jesus Christ: “Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:25). Even though the struggle with sin is real, through Christ, we have the power to overcome it and live according to the Spirit.
“The greatest battle you will ever fight is the battle within yourself.” – Unknown
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that speak to the internal battle between the flesh and the Spirit:
Galatians
5:16-17: “So
I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of
the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and
the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with
each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.”
This
passage highlights the ongoing battle between the flesh and the
Spirit that Paul describes in Romans.
Romans
8:5-8: “Those
who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the
flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have
their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the
flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and
peace.”
Paul
explains how the mindset that is controlled by the flesh leads to
death, while the mindset controlled by the Spirit leads to life.
Ephesians
6:12: “For
our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers,
against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and
against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
This
verse reminds us that our internal battle is part of a larger
spiritual struggle, one that involves both our flesh and spiritual
forces.
James
1:14-15: “but
each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil
desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth
to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”
James
explains how the desires of the flesh lead to sin, which, if not
controlled, brings death.
1
Peter 2:11: “Dear
friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful
desires, which wage war against your soul.”
Peter
acknowledges that sinful desires are at war against our spiritual
well-being, and we must resist them.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever tried to do something good, but found yourself doing the opposite? Like trying to eat healthy, but then you give in and have a piece of cake?
—We all have those moments where we know what's right, but we still mess up. Paul talks about this struggle in Romans 7. He describes it like an inner tug-of-war.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 7:7-12. What does Paul say about the law and sin? Does the law cause sin? What is the law's purpose?
—Paul explains that the law isn't the problem. It's like a mirror. It shows us our sin, just like a mirror shows us if we have dirt on our face. The law helps us see what sin is and how it falls short of God’s perfect standard. The law is holy, but our sinful nature uses the law to tempt us.
Read Romans 7:15-20. How does Paul describe his struggle with sin? Do you think many people can relate to what he's saying?
—Paul says he doesn't understand his own actions! He wants to do good, but he ends up doing what he hates. This is a very common human experience. We all have that inner battle. We know what we should do, but sometimes our sinful nature seems to take over.
Read Romans 7:21-25. Paul talks about two forces at work within him. What are they? What is his cry in verse 24?
—Paul describes the "law of sin" at war with the "law of his mind" or the "law of God." It's like having two voices inside us, one pulling us toward what's wrong, and the other pulling us toward what's right. His cry, "What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?" expresses his desperation and awareness of his inability to overcome sin on his own.
Read Romans 7:25 again. How does Paul answer his own question? What does this mean for us?
—Paul answers his question by saying, "Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!" The good news is that we are not left to struggle on our own. Jesus is our rescuer! He gives us the power through the Holy Spirit to overcome sin. It doesn’t mean we won’t ever struggle, but through Christ, we have the victory.
Thinking about this whole passage (Romans 7:7-25), what is the main point Paul is trying to make? What encouragement can we take from it?
—Paul's main point is that everyone struggles with sin, even the most devout believers. But the key is that we don't have to be defeated by it. Through Jesus, we are forgiven and empowered to live a new life. We can find hope and strength in Him to overcome the power of sin.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 7:7-25 is a powerful passage that shows us the internal struggle every believer faces. On one hand, we want to live according to God’s will, guided by the Spirit, but on the other hand, we feel the pull of our sinful nature. This struggle is real, and it’s something that each of us can identify with in our daily lives. Paul’s words echo the frustration we often feel—knowing what is right but finding ourselves doing what is wrong.
However, Paul also points us to the victory that we have in Christ. The struggle is not one we are meant to fight alone. Thanks to Jesus, we are no longer slaves to sin. Through the Holy Spirit, we have the power to resist the desires of the flesh and to live in obedience to God. Christ has already won the victory, and He empowers us to live in that victory each day.
It’s important to remember that while the struggle with sin continues, it does not define us. Our identity is not in our failure but in our position in Christ. Through Him, we are more than conquerors. As we rely on the Holy Spirit, we are able to resist temptation and experience victory over sin. The key is not to give up when we fall but to keep turning to Christ, who delivers us from the power of sin.
When you face the internal struggle, remember that victory is found in Jesus. He has overcome the power of sin, and through Him, we too can overcome. Keep your focus on the Spirit, and trust in God’s strength to lead you to victory.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 7 reminds us that the struggle with sin is real, but so is the grace of God. We are not alone in this fight. Let's remember to rely on Jesus and the Holy Spirit to help us live a life that pleases God.
Session 14: Romans 8:1-17 - Life in the Spirit
Focus: The believer’s new identity in the Holy Spirit.
READ: Romans 8:1-17
Purpose Statement: Paul contrasts life in the flesh with life in the Spirit, explaining that those who are in Christ are free from condemnation and empowered to live according to God’s will. The Spirit gives life, freedom, and hope.
OVERVIEW
Romans 8:1-17 focuses on the believer's new identity in the Holy Spirit. Paul explains that through Christ, there is no condemnation for those who live according to the Spirit rather than the flesh. This passage highlights the power of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live in righteousness and freedom from sin, and emphasizes our adoption as God's children.
Pivotal Verses: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death." - Romans 8:1-2
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 8:15, Paul writes, "The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.'" This might surprise some readers because it reveals the intimate and personal relationship believers have with God through the Holy Spirit. Paul's perspective challenges the notion of a distant or fearful relationship with God, emphasizing instead the loving and familial bond that the Spirit creates.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that the Holy Spirit not only frees us from the power of sin but also brings us into a close, loving relationship with God. The term "Abba, Father" reflects a deep, personal connection, similar to calling God "Daddy." This teaching highlights the incredible privilege and security of being adopted into God's family and the power of the Spirit that enables us to live as His children.
APPLYING: Romans 8:1-17 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 8:1-17 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of our new identity in Christ and the empowerment we have through the Holy Spirit. It encourages us to live in the freedom and righteousness that the Spirit provides, rejecting the old ways of the flesh. This teaching also challenges us to embrace our relationship with God as His beloved children, relying on the Spirit for guidance, strength, and assurance.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Overcoming Fear and Anxiety: Many believers find freedom from fear and anxiety through their relationship with the Holy Spirit. By embracing their identity as God's children and relying on the Spirit's presence, they experience peace and confidence in their daily lives.
Living a Transformed Life: Individuals who have struggled with sinful habits and behaviors often find the power to change through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit's guidance and strength enable them to live in righteousness and freedom, reflecting their new identity in Christ.
Experiencing God's Love: People who have felt distant from God or unloved often find a profound sense of belonging and acceptance through the Holy Spirit. Their relationship with God becomes deeply personal and , changing their perspective and outlook on life.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever wondered what it means to truly be “free” in Christ? Many of us have experienced the weight of guilt or the feeling that we aren’t measuring up to God’s standards. Yet, Romans 8:1 reminds us of the incredible truth: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” When we accept Christ, we are no longer defined by our past mistakes or failures; we are given a new identity, one that is secure in the Holy Spirit.
Life in the Spirit means that we are no longer bound by sin or the law, but we are free to live as God intended. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live in a way that reflects God’s will and brings glory to Him. Our new identity as children of God is marked by the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Through the Spirit, we have the power to overcome sin, the assurance of our adoption into God’s family, and the hope of eternal life.
Think about the freedom that comes with this new identity. No longer do we have to be slaves to sin, but we can walk in the power and peace of the Spirit. It’s not about what we can do on our own, but about what God is doing through us. “The Spirit of God is a life-giving power, constantly renewing us and making us more like Christ.”
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that highlight the believer’s new identity in the Holy Spirit:
John
14:16-17: “And
I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help
you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot
accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know
him, for he lives with you and will be in you.”
Jesus
promises the Holy Spirit, who will dwell in believers and guide them
forever, empowering them to live according to God’s will.
Galatians
5:16: “So
I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of
the flesh.”
Paul
encourages believers to live by the Spirit, which gives them the
strength to resist sin and live according to God’s desires.
2
Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore,
if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone,
the new is here!”
In
Christ, we are made new. Our old identity is gone, and we are given a
new identity as part of God’s family, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians
1:13-14: “And
you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth,
the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in
him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit
guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are
God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”
The
Holy Spirit is a guarantee of our inheritance and serves as a mark of
our new identity in Christ.
Titus
3:5-6: “He
saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of
his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by
the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus
Christ our Savior.”
The
Holy Spirit is the agent of our rebirth and renewal, marking the
beginning of our new identity in Christ.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 8:1-17 teaches us that the believer’s new identity is rooted in the Holy Spirit. Once we accept Christ, we are no longer defined by our past mistakes, guilt, or shame. Instead, we are marked by the presence of the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live in freedom and victory over sin. This is the beautiful truth of the gospel: in Christ, we are given a new identity, one that is defined by grace, love, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Paul contrasts life in the flesh (where sin and death reign) with life in the Spirit (where God’s power and peace reign). As believers, we are no longer in the flesh but in the Spirit. This new identity means that we have the power to overcome sin, the assurance of our adoption as children of God, and the hope of eternal life. The Holy Spirit is not just a force or a power; He is the very presence of God dwelling in us, guiding us, and transforming us into the image of Christ.
As you reflect on this passage, remember that your new identity is not based on what you’ve done or who you were, but on who God says you are in Christ. You are a child of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit to live a life that pleases Him. You have been freed from the bondage of sin and given the ability to live in the Spirit. Your identity is secure, not in your own strength, but in the strength of the Spirit working in and through you.
Embrace the new life God has given you through His Spirit. Walk in the freedom He offers and allow the Holy Spirit to continue His work of transforming you into the person God created you to be.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever felt truly free from something that was weighing you down? Like the relief after finishing a difficult project, or the joy of forgiveness after a misunderstanding?
—Paul talks about a new kind of freedom in Romans 8. It’s freedom from guilt, freedom from fear, and freedom to live a new life in the Spirit.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 8:1-4. What does Paul mean by "no condemnation" for those who are in Christ Jesus? What did Jesus do to make this possible?
—"No condemnation" means that God doesn't judge us guilty anymore. Jesus took the punishment for our sins on the cross. It’s like being pardoned by a judge after you've done something wrong. Because of Jesus, we stand before God as forgiven.
Read Romans 8:5-8. Paul contrasts two ways of living: according to the flesh and according to the Spirit. What's the difference between these two ways?
—Living according to the flesh means being controlled by our sinful desires. It's focusing on our own wants and ignoring God. Living according to the Spirit means being led by the Holy Spirit. It’s about seeking God's will and allowing Him to guide our lives.
Read Romans 8:11. What does Paul say about the Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead? What does this mean for us?
—The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in us! The Holy Spirit gives us new life and empowers us to overcome sin. It’s a promise that God’s power is available to us.
Read Romans 8:14-17. What does it mean to be "children of God" and "heirs with Christ"? What is the role of the Holy Spirit in our adoption?
—Being children of God means we belong to His family. We are adopted into His family through faith in Jesus. As heirs, we share in the inheritance that Jesus has. The Holy Spirit confirms our adoption and helps us understand that we are truly God’s children.
Looking back at the whole passage (Romans 8:1-17), what are some of the benefits of living a life in the Spirit? What is the main idea Paul wants to get across?
—Some benefits are freedom from condemnation, power over sin, and the assurance of being God's children. Paul's main point is that through faith in Jesus and the presence of the Holy Spirit, we have a new identity and a new life. We are no longer slaves to sin, but children of God, empowered to live a life that pleases Him.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 8 reminds us that through Jesus, we have been given a wonderful gift: a new life in the Spirit. Let's ask God to help us live each day led by the Spirit, experiencing the freedom and joy that comes from being His children.
Session 15: Romans 8:18-30 - Future Glory
Focus: Hope for the future and God’s ultimate purpose.
READ: Romans 8:18-30
Purpose Statement: Paul offers hope for believers by pointing to the future glory that will be revealed. Even in present suffering, Christians are assured that God is working all things for their good, and that glory awaits them in the coming resurrection.
OVERVIEW
Romans 8:1-17 explores the believer's new identity in the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the freedom and life we have in Christ. Paul explains that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus because the law of the Spirit of life has set them free from the law of sin and death. This passage highlights the work of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live according to God's will and assures them of their adoption as God's children.
Pivotal Verses: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death." - Romans 8:1-2
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 8:15-16, Paul writes, "The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children." This might surprise some readers because it reveals the intimate and personal relationship believers have with God through the Holy Spirit. Paul's perspective challenges the notion of a distant or impersonal God and highlights the deep connection and assurance that comes from being God's adopted children.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing that the Holy Spirit not only frees us from the power of sin but also affirms our identity as God's children. The term "Abba, Father" reflects a close, familial relationship with God, highlighting the love and intimacy that believers experience through the Spirit. This teaching reminds us that our identity is rooted in being God's beloved children, and it encourages us to live in the freedom and confidence that comes from this relationship.
APPLYING: Romans 8:1-17 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 8:1-17 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of our new identity in the Holy Spirit and the freedom we have in Christ. It encourages us to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance, strength, and assurance, knowing that we are no longer condemned but are loved and accepted by God. This teaching also challenges us to live according to the Spirit, allowing His work to shape our thoughts, actions, and attitudes.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Freedom from Guilt: Many believers find freedom from feelings of guilt and condemnation through their relationship with Christ. The assurance of being forgiven and accepted by God allows them to live with confidence and joy.
Empowerment to Live Righteously: People who rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance often experience the power to overcome sinful habits and live in alignment with God's will. The Spirit empowers them to make choices that honor God and reflect their new identity in Christ.
Assurance of God's Love: The intimate relationship with God that comes from being His adopted children provides believers with a deep sense of security and belonging. This assurance transforms their outlook on life and strengthens their faith.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever faced a difficult situation or season in life that seemed never-ending? Maybe you’ve experienced pain, loss, or hardship and wondered if it would ever improve. In Romans 8:18, Paul acknowledges this reality: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” This passage reminds us that while we may face struggles in this life, they are temporary in comparison to the eternal glory and hope that awaits us in Christ.
We live in a world that is broken, where suffering is real. But for those who are in Christ, our present circumstances are not the end of the story. God has an ultimate purpose for our lives, one that is marked by eternal glory. The Holy Spirit is at work in us, helping us in our weakness and interceding for us, ensuring that everything in our lives works together for good according to God’s purpose (Romans 8:28). No matter how difficult life may seem at times, we can look forward to the hope of future glory.
Think about how this perspective can change how we live today. While our pain and struggles are real, they are not forever. God has an eternal plan, and He is working in and through us, shaping us to reflect His glory in the future. “When we focus on the future glory that awaits us, it changes how we view our present suffering.”
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that speak to the hope of future glory and God’s ultimate purpose:
2
Corinthians 4:17: “For
our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal
glory that far outweighs them all.”
Paul
reminds us that our current struggles are temporary and are actually
preparing us for an eternal glory that will far surpass anything
we’ve faced.
Philippians
3:20-21: “But
our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from
there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to
bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies
so that they will be like his glorious body.”
This
passage speaks of the future transformation we will experience, as we
await Christ’s return and the full glory of our eternal bodies.
Revelation
21:4: “He
will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or
mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed
away.”
This
is a beautiful promise about the future glory that awaits us when God
makes all things new and ends suffering forever.
1
Peter 1:3-4: “Praise
be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy
he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection
of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never
perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for
you.”
Our
hope is alive and secure in Christ, with an inheritance that is
eternal, pure, and unfading.
Titus
2:13: “While
we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our
great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.”
We
are called to eagerly await the return of Jesus, the fulfillment of
our hope and glory.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 8:18-30 is a powerful reminder that our current sufferings are temporary, and they are nothing in comparison to the glory that awaits us in Christ. While it’s easy to get bogged down in the difficulties of life, Paul encourages us to keep our eyes on the future—on the glory that will be revealed in us. As we live in a broken world, we are not left to face our struggles alone. The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness, intercedes for us, and assures us that God is working everything together for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28).
The hope of future glory is not just wishful thinking—it is a certain promise. God has a plan and a purpose for our lives, and that purpose involves ultimate transformation and eternal life with Him. This hope should change how we live today. We don’t have to live in despair or discouragement, no matter what we face. Instead, we can live with the assurance that our struggles are temporary, and they are preparing us for the glory that is to come.
As you reflect on this passage, remember that the suffering you face today is not the final word. God is working in you and through you, and He will bring about the ultimate good—His glory revealed in you. Hold on to the hope of future glory, knowing that God is faithful to fulfill His promises. Let this hope give you strength to endure and live with purpose, knowing that the best is yet to come.
LEAD-IN QUESTION:
Question: Have you ever looked forward to something so much that it helped you get through a difficult time? Like the anticipation of a visit from family, or the excitement of a special holiday?
—Paul talks about a future glory that awaits believers. This hope can help us through the tough times we face in this life.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 8:18. What does Paul say about our present sufferings compared to the glory that will be revealed?
—Paul says our current struggles are nothing compared to the amazing future God has planned for us. It's like comparing a small rain shower to a beautiful rainbow. The rainbow is far more glorious than the rain.
Read Romans 8:19-22. Paul talks about creation groaning. What do you think he means by this? What is creation waiting for?
—Creation is waiting for the time when God will fully restore everything. Right now, the world is affected by sin, just like we are. It's like a garden that has weeds growing in it. Creation longs for the day when God will make everything perfect again.
Read Romans 8:23-25. What does Paul say about our hope and our waiting? What does it mean to "groan inwardly"?
—We have the first fruits of the Spirit, a taste of what's to come, but we still wait for the full experience of being made like Christ, including the redemption of our bodies. "Groaning inwardly" means we long for this future glory, even though we can’t see it yet. It’s a deep desire within us.
Read Romans 8:26-27. What is the role of the Holy Spirit in our prayers?
—Sometimes we don't even know how to pray. The Holy Spirit helps us by interceding for us, expressing our needs to God in ways we can’t even put into words. It’s like the Spirit is translating our hearts’ desires to God.
Read Romans 8:28-30. What does Paul say about God's purpose for those who love Him? What is predestination, as it's described here?
—God works all things together for the good of those who love Him. This doesn't mean that everything that happens to us is good, but that God can use even bad things for His purposes. Predestination, in this context, refers to God's foreknowledge and plan for those He has chosen. He knew from the beginning who would believe in Jesus, and He has a purpose for their lives.
Looking back at the whole passage (Romans 8:18-30), what is the main message Paul is trying to convey? What comfort and hope can we find in these verses?
—Paul's
main message is that even though we face suffering and difficulties
in this life, we have a glorious future to look forward to. God is
in control, and He is working all things for our good. We can find
comfort and hope in knowing that God loves us, that the Holy Spirit
is with us, and that our future is secure in Him.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 8:18-30 gives us a reason to rejoice even in the midst of trials. Let's focus on the hope of future glory and trust that God is working all things together for our good.
Session 16: Romans 8:31-39 - God’s Unfailing Love
Focus: Nothing can separate us from God’s love.
READ: Romans 8:31-39
Purpose Statement: Paul concludes the chapter with a powerful reminder that nothing—neither trouble, hardship, nor anything else—can separate believers from the love of God in Christ Jesus. This guarantees the security of their salvation.
OVERVIEW
Romans 8:31-39 is a powerful declaration of God’s unfailing love for His people. Paul reassures believers that nothing can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus. This passage emphasizes the security and confidence we have in God's love, no matter what challenges or hardships we may face. It highlights God's unwavering commitment to us and the assurance of His victory over any and all obstacles.
Pivotal Verses: "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 8:31-32, Paul writes, "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" This might surprise some readers because it reveals the depth of God's commitment to His people. Paul argues that if God did not withhold His own Son, He will surely provide everything we need. This perspective challenges any doubts about God's willingness to care for us and highlights His generous and sacrificial love.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing that God's love and provision are beyond measure. By giving His own Son, God demonstrated the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. This teaching reassures believers that God is fully committed to their well-being and will provide for their needs. It encourages us to trust in God's love and to live with the confidence that nothing can separate us from Him.
APPLYING: Romans 8:31-39 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 8:31-39 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the unshakeable love and security we have in Christ. It encourages us to trust in God's unwavering commitment to us, especially in times of difficulty or uncertainty. This teaching also challenges us to live with boldness and confidence, knowing that God's love will sustain and protect us through any circumstances.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Facing Adversity with Confidence: Many believers find strength and courage in knowing that God's love is with them through difficult times. This assurance empowers them to face challenges with confidence, trusting in God's provision and protection.
Overcoming Fear and Anxiety: Understanding that nothing can separate us from God's love helps individuals overcome fear and anxiety. This profound sense of security allows them to live with peace and assurance, even in uncertain situations.
Inspiring Acts of Love: The knowledge of God's unfailing love motivates believers to show love and compassion to others. They are inspired to extend grace, forgiveness, and kindness, reflecting God's love in their relationships and communities.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever felt distant from God, like you’ve somehow lost His love because of something you did or didn’t do? In Romans 8:35, Paul asks, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” The answer is clear: nothing. Not hardship, not failure, not anything in life or death can separate us from God's love. This is a reassuring promise that we need to remember every day. We can’t earn God’s love, and we can’t lose it either. It is steadfast and unchanging, regardless of our circumstances.
God’s love for us is not based on our actions but on His unchanging nature. Even when we feel unworthy, God’s love remains. Paul lists many things—trouble, hardship, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, or sword—and says that none of them can separate us from God’s love. Even in our most challenging moments, we are more than conquerors because of God’s love. It’s not that we will never face challenges, but in the midst of them, we know that God’s love will always hold us fast.
Think about how different your life would be if you truly believed nothing could separate you from God’s love. Would you approach difficult situations differently? Would you find courage and peace knowing God’s love is unwavering, no matter what?
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that affirm God’s unfailing love and how nothing can separate us from it:
John
10:28-29: “I
give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will
snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is
greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s
hand.”
Jesus
assures us that once we belong to Him, nothing can take us away from
His love or protection.
Isaiah
54:10: “Though
the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing
love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,”
says the Lord, who has compassion on you.”
God’s
love is described as unfailing, never shaken, and permanent—no
matter what turmoil we face in life.
Jeremiah
31:3: “I
have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with
unfailing kindness.”
God’s
love is everlasting and unwavering—He draws us to Himself with this
kind of love.
Psalm
139:7-10: “Where
can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I
go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths,
you are there.”
The
psalmist reminds us that there is no place we can go where God’s
presence and love will not be with us.
Ephesians
3:17-19: “So
that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that
you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together
with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and
high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that
surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all
the fullness of God.”
Paul
prays for believers to understand the vastness of Christ’s love—a
love that surpasses all knowledge and is present with us at all
times.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 8:31-39 is a beautiful reminder that no matter what we go through in life, God's love remains constant and unfailing. Paul’s powerful declaration that “nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus” offers deep comfort and assurance. Whether we face hardship, doubt, or fear, we are never separated from the love of God. The love God has for us is not dependent on our circumstances or performance but on His character and promises.
The trials we experience in life are real, but they do not define us. In Christ, we are more than conquerors because of God’s love. No matter the struggles we face—whether emotional, physical, or spiritual—God is always with us. His love is our anchor in the storm, and His faithfulness never wavers.
It’s important to remember that this love is not just an abstract idea; it is a tangible reality. God demonstrated His love for us in the most powerful way possible by sending His Son, Jesus, to die for us. Through Jesus, we have been brought into an unbreakable relationship with God, a relationship that is held together by His infinite love.
As you reflect on this passage, know that you are loved with a love that is stronger than any challenge you might face. Nothing—no hardship, no failure, no fear—can take you away from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Rest in this truth, and let it empower you to face whatever comes your way with the confidence that God’s love will never fail.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Is there someone in your life whose love you can always count on, no matter what? What makes that relationship so special?
—Paul talks about God's love in Romans 8. He wants us to know that God's love is stronger than anything we can imagine.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 8:31-32. If God is for us, who can be against us? What does it mean that God "did not spare his own Son"?
—If God is on our side, it doesn't matter who or what is against us. Nothing can ultimately defeat us. God not sparing His own Son shows the incredible depth of His love for us. He gave the most precious thing to save us.
Read Romans 8:33-34. Who can bring any charge against God’s chosen ones? Who is it that condemns? What is Christ's role for us?
—No one can accuse God's people because God Himself has declared us righteous through Jesus. It is Christ who died for us, was raised to life, and is at the right hand of God interceding for us. He is our advocate and our savior.
Read Romans 8:35-37. What kinds of things might try to separate us from Christ’s love? How does Paul answer this?
—Paul lists many hardships: trouble, hardship, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, or sword. These are all difficult things, but Paul says that in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. He’s saying that even in hard times, we can overcome because of Christ's love.
Read Romans 8:38-39. What is Paul absolutely convinced of? What does he mean by "neither death nor life"?
—Paul is absolutely convinced that nothing can separate us from God's love. "Neither death nor life" means that not even the most extreme experiences, like death itself, can break the bond of God's love. Even if we die, we are still in God's loving care.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 8:31-39), what is the main point Paul is making? What comfort can these verses give us?
—Paul's main point is that God's love for us is absolutely secure and unbreakable. No matter what we face in life, nothing can ever separate us from His love. These verses offer tremendous comfort and assurance. They remind us that we are loved unconditionally by God, and that His love will never fail us.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 8:31-39 is a powerful reminder of God's unwavering love. Let's rest in the knowledge that we are deeply loved by God and that nothing can ever take that love away from us.
Session 17: Romans 9:1-29 - God’s Sovereign Choice
Focus: God’s sovereignty in salvation.
READ: Romans 9:1-2
Purpose Statement: Paul reflects on God’s sovereign choice in salvation, pointing out that God’s promises to Israel are not nullified by their rejection of Christ. He emphasizes God’s freedom to show mercy as He wills, and the importance of God’s faithfulness to His word.
OVERVIEW
Romans 9:1-29 delves into the complex and profound doctrine of God's sovereignty in salvation. Paul expresses his deep sorrow for the unbelief of his fellow Jews and explains that not all who are descended from Israel are part of the true Israel. He emphasizes that God's choice in salvation is based on His mercy and sovereign will, not human effort or lineage. This passage highlights the mystery and majesty of God's sovereign grace in His redemptive plan.
Pivotal Verses: "It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy." - Romans 9:16
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 9:20-21, Paul writes, "But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? 'Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, "Why did you make me like this?"' Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use?" This might surprise some readers because it underscores the absolute sovereignty of God over His creation. Paul's analogy of the potter and the clay challenges the idea that humans can question God's decisions and highlights the Creator's authority to shape His creation according to His purposes.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing that God's sovereignty in salvation is based on His own will and mercy, not on human merit or understanding. The analogy of the potter and the clay illustrates that God, as the Creator, has the right to determine the destiny of His creation. This teaching highlights the importance of trusting in God's wisdom and submitting to His will, even when we do not fully understand His ways. It reminds us that God's plan of salvation is ultimately about His glory and mercy.
APPLYING: Romans 9:1-29 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 9:1-29 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us to humbly submit to God's sovereignty and trust in His mercy. It encourages us to recognize that our salvation is a result of God's grace, not our own efforts, and to be grateful for His merciful choice. This teaching also challenges us to pray for others and share the message of God's grace, knowing that He is sovereign in calling people to Himself.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Trusting God's Plan: Many believers find peace and assurance in trusting God's sovereign plan, even when faced with uncertainty or difficulty. This trust allows them to navigate life's challenges with confidence in God's wisdom and goodness.
Embracing God's Grace: Individuals who have experienced God's sovereign grace often testify to the power of His mercy. They understand that their salvation is a gift from God and live with a deep sense of gratitude and humility.
Praying for Others: Understanding God's sovereignty in salvation motivates believers to pray fervently for the salvation of others. They trust that God is at work in calling people to Himself and seek to be faithful witnesses to His grace.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever struggled with the question of why some people come to faith in Christ while others don’t? It can be hard to understand why God chooses to show mercy and grace to some and not to others. In Romans 9:15, Paul quotes God’s words: “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” This is a reminder that God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His sovereign choice in salvation is not based on our understanding or merit, but on His divine will.
God’s sovereignty means that He is in complete control. His decisions are not arbitrary, and they are always good, just, and loving. In Romans 9, Paul explains how God’s choices—like choosing Isaac over Ishmael or Jacob over Esau—are part of His perfect plan for salvation. These choices may not always make sense to us, but we must trust that God’s decisions are rooted in His wisdom and love. Even when we don’t fully understand why God does things the way He does, we can rest in the assurance that He is good, just, and merciful.
Reflect on how knowing that God is sovereign in salvation brings peace to your heart. When we remember that God is in control, we can trust that His plan for salvation, though it may be mysterious at times, is perfect and good. “God’s sovereign choice is not something to fear or question, but something to trust and praise.”
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that speak to God’s sovereignty in salvation:
Ephesians
1:4-5: “For
he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and
blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to
sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and
will.”
Paul
reminds us that God chose us before the foundation of the world, and
His choices are made in love and according to His will.
John
15:16: “You
did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you
might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever
you ask in my name the Father will give you.”
Jesus
makes it clear that salvation and the fruit of our lives are the
result of His choosing us, not the other way around.
2
Timothy 1:9: “He
has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything
we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was
given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time.”
Paul
emphasizes that God’s saving grace is not based on our works, but
on His purpose and grace, given to us before time began.
Matthew
22:14: “For
many are invited, but few are chosen.”
This
verse reflects God’s sovereign choice in salvation. Though many are
invited, only a few respond, and those whom God chooses are brought
into His kingdom.
Romans
8:29-30: “For
those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image
of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and
sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called,
he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.”
These
verses highlight God’s sovereign plan of salvation, from
foreknowing to glorifying, demonstrating that everything is part of
His purposeful plan.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 9:1-29 can be a challenging passage to understand, especially when it comes to God’s sovereignty in salvation. The concept of God choosing some for salvation and passing over others can be difficult to grasp. Yet, what we learn from this passage is that God’s choices are always rooted in His love, wisdom, and justice. We may not fully understand why God works the way He does, but we can trust that His decisions are always good.
God is sovereign over all things, and this includes His sovereign choice in salvation. From the beginning of time, God has chosen to work out His plan of salvation according to His purpose. His decisions are not based on human effort, good works, or any merit on our part. It is entirely by His grace and mercy that we are saved. As Paul says, “It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy” (Romans 9:16).
The mystery of God’s sovereign choice should lead us to a posture of humility and worship. Instead of questioning God’s decisions, we are called to trust His wisdom and praise His grace. We can rest in the assurance that God’s plan for salvation is perfect, and we are part of that plan because of His mercy.
Remember that God’s sovereignty is not something to fear but something to embrace. His love is never arbitrary—it is always intentional and rooted in His perfect wisdom. As you reflect on God’s sovereign choice in salvation, let it lead you to greater trust in His perfect plan and a deeper sense of gratitude for the mercy He has shown you.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever made a difficult decision that affected other people? How did you make that decision, and what did you consider?
—Paul is going to talk about some big decisions God makes, especially about who gets saved. It's a complicated topic, so let's approach it together.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 9:1-5. How does Paul feel about his fellow Israelites? Why is he so concerned?
—Paul is heartbroken. He loves his people, the Israelites, but many of them don't believe in Jesus. He recognizes the special blessings God gave Israel, but they are missing the most important blessing of all – salvation through Jesus.
Read Romans 9:6-13. What does Paul say about God's choice? What example does he use?
—Paul explains that being a descendant of Abraham doesn't automatically make someone a child of God. God chooses who He will show mercy to. He uses the example of Jacob and Esau. Even before they were born, God chose Jacob. This illustrates God's sovereign choice. It's important to remember this isn't about God being unfair, but about His prerogative as God.
Read Romans 9:14-18. Does this mean God is unjust? How does Paul respond?
—Paul anticipates the question of injustice. He quotes from Exodus, where God says, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy.” Paul emphasizes that God is sovereign. He is not bound by our understanding of fairness. His ways are higher than ours. It’s not that God is unjust, but that His justice operates on a scale we can’t fully comprehend.
Read Romans 9:19-24. Paul uses the illustration of a potter and clay. What is the point of this analogy?
—The potter has the right to decide what to do with the clay. God, as the creator, has the right to choose who He will save. This doesn't mean God creates some people just to be condemned. It emphasizes God’s ultimate authority. He is God, and we are the created.
Read Romans 9:25-29. Paul quotes from Hosea and Isaiah. What is the message he is conveying?
—Paul shows that God's plan of salvation has always included both Jews and Gentiles. God's mercy is not limited to one group of people. He calls people from all nations to be His own.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 9:1-29), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? Is it easy to understand?
—Paul's
main point is that God is sovereign in salvation. He chooses who He
will show mercy to. This is a difficult concept to grasp fully. It's
important to remember that God is loving and just, even if we don't
understand all His ways. This passage isn't meant to make us feel
like we have all the answers, but to remind us of the greatness and
mystery of God.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 9 reminds us that God is in control. While we may not always understand His ways, we can trust in His goodness and love. Let's focus on being thankful for His mercy towards us. It's okay to have questions about this passage; it's a deep one. The important thing is to approach it with humility and a desire to learn more about God.
Session 18: Romans 9:30-10:21 - Righteousness by Faith, Not by Law
Focus: The need for faith and the failure of self-righteousness.
READ: Romans 9:30-10:21
Purpose Statement: Paul explains that the Gentiles attained righteousness by faith, while Israel stumbled because they sought righteousness through works of the law. He urges Israel to call on the name of the Lord for salvation, showing that faith in Christ is the way.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever found yourself trying to earn God’s approval by doing all the “right” things? Maybe you’ve tried to be good enough, to follow all the rules, or to live a perfect life, thinking that it would somehow bring you closer to God. This was the situation for many of the Israelites Paul talks about in Romans 9:30-32. They sought righteousness through the law, but they failed because they did not seek it by faith. Instead, they stumbled over the “stumbling stone” of Christ (Romans 9:33).
The key to righteousness, Paul reminds us, is faith—not following a set of rules or rituals, but trusting in Jesus Christ as our Savior. Righteousness comes by believing in Christ and His work on the cross, not by trying to achieve it through our own efforts. The Israelites, despite their zealousness for the law, missed this fundamental truth. They sought righteousness by works, but true righteousness can only be received by faith.
Reflect on how often you may rely on your own efforts to please God. The truth is, no matter how hard we try, we cannot earn our way to righteousness. But God, in His mercy, offers it freely through faith in Jesus Christ. “Righteousness is not earned by what we do, but received by trusting in what Christ has already done.”
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that speak to righteousness by faith and the failure of self-righteousness:
Ephesians
2:8-9: “For
it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not
from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one
can boast.”
Salvation
and righteousness come through faith as a gift from God, not through
anything we can do on our own.
Philippians
3:9: “Not
having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that
which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from
God on the basis of faith.”
Paul
speaks of righteousness that is not based on the law but comes from
faith in Jesus Christ.
Galatians
2:16: “Know
that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith
in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus, that
we may be justified by faith and not by the works of the law, because
by the works of the law no one will be justified.”
Justification,
or being made right with God, comes through faith in Christ, not
through observing the law.
Romans
3:28: “For
we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works
of the law.”
Paul
makes it clear that we are justified by faith and not by adhering to
the law.
Titus
3:5: “He
saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of
his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by
the Holy Spirit.”
Our
salvation is not based on our works, but on God’s mercy, as He
renews us through the Holy Spirit.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
In Romans 9:30-10:21, Paul draws a clear distinction between righteousness based on faith and self-righteousness based on the law. The Israelites, despite their zeal, failed to attain righteousness because they tried to achieve it through their own efforts rather than by trusting in Jesus Christ. They missed the point that righteousness cannot be earned—it must be received through faith in Christ.
This is a crucial truth for us to remember today. Many of us, whether consciously or unconsciously, may still believe that if we follow the right rules or live a good life, we can earn God’s favor. But the truth is, we can never be good enough to earn righteousness. The only way to be made right with God is through faith in Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our sins on the cross.
This passage challenges us to examine how we approach our relationship with God. Are we relying on our own efforts, our good deeds, or our knowledge of the law to gain God’s approval? Or are we humbling ourselves before God, recognizing that righteousness is a gift, received only through faith in Christ?
Let this truth transform how we live. Rather than striving to earn God’s love, we can rest in the assurance that righteousness comes through faith alone. Our role is to trust in Christ, accept His grace, and live in response to the incredible gift of righteousness that He offers. “Righteousness is not a goal to be achieved, but a gift to be received.”
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever tried really hard to follow all the rules, only to realize you still fell short? How did that make you feel?
—Paul talks about how trying to earn God's approval through following the law doesn't work. It's like trying to climb a ladder that doesn't reach the top.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 9:30-32. What is the difference between the Gentiles' approach to righteousness and Israel's approach?
—The Gentiles, who weren't trying to follow the Jewish law, found righteousness through faith in Jesus. Israel, who were trying to follow the law, missed it because they were trying to earn it through their own efforts, not through faith.
Read Romans 10:1-4. What is Paul's desire for Israel? What does he say about their zeal? What is the "righteousness that comes from God"?
—Paul's heart still longs for his people to be saved. He acknowledges their zeal for God, but says their zeal is "misguided." They don’t understand that righteousness comes from faith in Christ, not from following the law. The "righteousness that comes from God" is the righteousness that God offers us through Jesus.
Read Romans 10:5-13. What does Paul say about the difference between righteousness based on the law and righteousness based on faith? How is salvation available to "everyone who believes"?
—Righteousness by law requires perfect obedience, which no one can achieve. Righteousness by faith is based on believing in Jesus. Paul quotes Deuteronomy to show that the way to salvation has always been about faith. Anyone, Jew or Gentile, who believes in Jesus will be saved.
Read Romans 10:14-17. How does faith come? What is the connection between hearing the message and believing?
—Faith comes from hearing the message about Christ. People can't believe in someone they haven't heard about. That’s why preaching and sharing the Gospel is so important.
Read Romans 10:18-21. Has Israel heard the message? How does Paul explain their unbelief?
—Yes, Israel has heard the message. Paul uses several Old Testament passages to show that God knew Israel would reject the message. It goes back to God's sovereign choice, as discussed in the previous chapter.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 9:30-10:21), what is the main point Paul is trying to make? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus
Christ, not by works of the law. No matter how hard we try, we can't
earn God's approval on our own. The key takeaway is that we need to
trust in Jesus and what He has done for us.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 9:30-10:21 reminds us that salvation is a gift. It's not something we earn, but something we receive through faith in Jesus. Let's be thankful for this amazing gift and share the good news with others.
Session 19: Romans 11:1-36 - God’s Plan for Israel
Focus: God’s faithfulness to Israel and the mystery of salvation.
READ: Romans 11:1-36
Purpose Statement: Paul discusses how God has not rejected Israel permanently, and there is a future plan for them. He highlights God’s mercy to both Jews and Gentiles, and the mystery of how God’s plan unfolds in salvation history.
OVERVIEW
Romans 11:1-36 discusses God's faithfulness to Israel and the mystery of salvation. Paul addresses the question of whether God has rejected His people, Israel, and explains that a remnant has been chosen by grace. He also emphasizes that the Gentiles have been grafted into God's plan of salvation, and ultimately, all Israel will be saved. This passage highlights God's sovereign plan and the depth of His wisdom and mercy.
Pivotal Verses: "I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, and in this way all Israel will be saved." - Romans 11:25-26a
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 11:11, Paul writes, "Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious." This might surprise some readers because it reveals that Israel's stumbling served a purpose in God's plan by opening the door of salvation to the Gentiles. Paul's perspective challenges the idea that Israel's rejection of the Messiah was a failure and instead highlights it as part of God's sovereign plan to extend His grace to all nations.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing that Israel's transgression led to the inclusion of the Gentiles in God's plan of salvation. This teaching shows that God's wisdom and mercy are beyond human understanding and that He can use even difficult situations to fulfill His purposes. It reminds us that God's plan is inclusive and that His faithfulness to His promises remains unshaken. This passage also encourages believers to approach God's mysterious ways with humility and trust in His sovereignty.
APPLYING: Romans 11:1-36 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 11:1-36 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of God's faithfulness and the inclusivity of His plan of salvation. It encourages us to trust in God's wisdom and to embrace the mystery of His ways, even when we do not fully understand them. This teaching also challenges us to extend God's grace to others, recognizing that His mercy is available to all people.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Unity in Diversity: Many faith communities experience the power of the gospel in bringing together people from diverse backgrounds. The inclusion of both Jews and Gentiles in God's plan of salvation serves as a model for unity and reconciliation within the body of Christ.
Trusting God's Sovereignty: Individuals who face uncertainty or difficult situations often find peace in trusting God's sovereign plan. By recognizing that God is faithful to His promises, they can navigate life's challenges with confidence and hope.
Extending Grace to Others: Believers who understand the inclusivity of God's grace are often motivated to share the gospel with others. They seek to extend God's love and mercy to those who may feel excluded or marginalized, reflecting the heart of God's plan for salvation.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Have you ever wondered about God’s plan for Israel, especially when so many Israelites did not accept Jesus as the Messiah? In Romans 11, Paul reflects on the mystery of God’s plan for Israel and the broader world. God has not rejected His people, Israel. Instead, He is at work in a way that is both mysterious and wonderful. While many Israelites rejected Jesus, God has preserved a remnant of faithful believers, and His promises to Israel remain intact.
Paul shows that Israel’s rejection of Christ is part of God’s larger plan to bring salvation to the Gentiles (non-Jews). Yet, this is not the end of the story for Israel. God has not forgotten His covenant with them, and in the future, He will bring about a great spiritual revival among them. “God’s faithfulness to Israel is not conditional on their actions, but on His unchanging nature.” This truth assures us that God is trustworthy and that His plans for salvation are much larger and deeper than we often realize.
Reflect on the mystery of salvation and how God’s plan has unfolded in ways we might not always understand. The story of Israel teaches us that even when things seem uncertain, God is always at work, fulfilling His promises in ways that may be beyond our comprehension. We are invited to trust Him fully, knowing that His ways are always for good.
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that align with God’s faithfulness to Israel and the mystery of salvation:
Romans
9:6-8: “It
is not as though God’s word had failed. For not all who are
descended from Israel are Israel. Nor because they are his
descendants are they all Abraham’s children. On the contrary, ‘It
is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.’”
Paul
explains that God’s promises are fulfilled through faith, not
merely through physical descent. God’s true Israel are those who
believe.
Isaiah
55:8-9: “For
my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so
are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your
thoughts.”
God’s
plan for salvation is often beyond human understanding, yet we can
trust that His ways are best.
Acts
13:46-48: “Then
Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: ‘We had to speak the word
of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider
yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. For
this is what the Lord has commanded us: “‘I have made you a light
for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the
earth.”
God’s
plan of salvation includes the Gentiles, but Israel still has a place
in His redemptive plan.
Zechariah
12:10:
“And
I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of
Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me,
the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns
for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a
firstborn son.”
This
prophecy speaks to a time when Israel will recognize Jesus as the
Messiah and turn to Him in repentance.
Romans
11:26-27: “And
in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: ‘The
deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from
Jacob. And this is my covenant with them when I take away their
sins.’”
Paul
points to a future time when Israel will experience salvation through
Jesus Christ.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever seen a situation where something looked like a failure, but later you realized it was part of a bigger plan?
—Sometimes things don't make sense right away. Paul talks about God's plan for Israel, and it's a good example of how God works in mysterious ways.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 11:1-6. Has God rejected His people? What is Paul's answer? What does he say about the "remnant chosen by grace"?
—Absolutely not! God has not rejected Israel. Paul himself is an Israelite, a proof of God's continued faithfulness. There is always a "remnant," a group of people God has chosen by grace, even if the majority doesn't believe.
Read Romans 11:7-10. What has happened to the rest of Israel? What does Paul quote from the Old Testament?
—The rest of Israel has become hardened. They have not accepted Jesus as the Messiah. Paul quotes from the Psalms to show that this hardening was also foretold. It's a mystery how God works, but it's part of His plan.
Read Romans 11:11-15. Did Israel stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? What is the purpose of Israel's stumble? What blessing has come to the Gentiles as a result?
—No, their stumble is not final. God's purpose in allowing Israel to stumble was to bring salvation to the Gentiles. It’s a way to make Israel jealous, hoping they will also turn to Christ. It's a complex plan, showing God's wisdom.
Read Romans 11:16-24. Paul uses the analogy of an olive tree. What does this illustrate about the relationship between Jews and Gentiles? What warning does Paul give to the Gentile believers?
—The olive tree represents God's people. The original branches are the Jewish believers. Some branches were broken off (unbelieving Jews), and wild branches (Gentiles) were grafted in. This shows how Gentiles have become part of God's family through faith. Paul warns the Gentiles not to be arrogant, because just as the natural branches were cut off, so can the grafted branches if they do not remain in faith.
Read Romans 11:25-32. What is the "mystery" Paul wants to reveal? What will happen to Israel in the future?
—The mystery is that a time will come when "all Israel" will be saved. After the full number of Gentiles comes in, God will turn again to Israel. This doesn't mean every single Israelite will be saved, but that there will be a great turning back to God. God's mercy is for both Jews and Gentiles.
Read Romans 11:33-36. How does Paul conclude this section? What words does he use to describe God?
—Paul ends with a powerful expression of praise to God. He is overwhelmed by God's wisdom, knowledge, and unsearchable ways. He calls God "incomprehensible," "unsearchable," and the source of everything.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 11:1-36), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that God is faithful to His promises, even when things
look confusing. He has a plan for both Jews and Gentiles, and His
ways are ultimately just and merciful. The key takeaway is to trust
in God's wisdom and sovereignty, even when we don't understand
everything.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 11 gives us a glimpse into the mystery of God’s plan for Israel and for all of humanity. While Israel, as a nation, has largely rejected Jesus as the Messiah, God has not rejected them. Paul is clear: God’s promises to Israel remain. Though Israel’s hardening has allowed the gospel to spread to the Gentiles, this does not mean God’s covenant with Israel is finished. In fact, there is hope for a future revival when Israel will turn to Christ.
This passage reminds us of the unfathomable depth of God’s wisdom and grace. His plan of salvation is not just for one people group but for the entire world. The fact that God has made a way for us, the Gentiles, to be grafted into His salvation plan should lead us to a deep sense of gratitude. As Paul writes in Romans 11:17-18, we are like branches grafted into a tree that originally belonged to Israel, and we must not become arrogant about this, but humbly recognize that it is by God’s grace alone.
God’s faithfulness to Israel also teaches us about His faithfulness to us. Just as He keeps His promises to Israel, He keeps His promises to all who trust in Him. Even when things seem uncertain or when we face challenges in our own lives, we can trust that God is at work, fulfilling His plan. What we see in Israel’s story is a testament to God’s unwavering commitment to His people—and that includes you and me.
As we reflect on Romans 11, let us marvel at the mystery of salvation, give thanks for the grace extended to us, and trust that God’s plan is always perfect, even when we don’t understand it. God’s faithfulness is beyond question, and His wisdom is beyond our comprehension. We are part of a much larger story, one that includes the Jewish people, the Gentiles, and all who trust in Christ. We can trust God to fulfill His promises to Israel and to us, knowing that His plan of salvation is perfect, and His love never fails.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 11 reminds us that God is in control. He is working out His purposes in ways we may not fully grasp. Let's trust in His goodness and praise Him for His amazing grace and mercy.
Session 20: Romans 12:1-8 - Living Sacrifices
Focus: Living for God as a transformed, humble body of believers.
READ: Romans 12:1-8
Purpose Statement: Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, and to use their gifts humbly for the common good. This section outlines practical Christian living based on God’s mercy.
OVERVIEW
Romans 12:1-8 emphasizes the call for believers to live as living sacrifices, dedicated to God, and transformed by the renewing of their minds. Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of true and proper worship. He also highlights the importance of humility and the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ, encouraging believers to use their gifts to serve one another.
Pivotal Verses: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." - Romans 12:1-2
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 12:3, Paul writes, "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." This might surprise some readers because it underscores the importance of humility in the Christian life. Paul's perspective challenges the notion of self-importance and emphasizes the need for believers to recognize their dependence on God's grace and the value of each member within the body of Christ.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that humility is essential for living a life dedicated to God. By encouraging believers to think of themselves with "sober judgment," Paul is highlighting the importance of self-awareness and recognizing that our abilities and gifts are given by God's grace. This teaching emphasizes that true transformation involves a renewed mind that understands our role within the larger body of Christ and the necessity of serving one another with humility and love.
APPLYING: Romans 12:1-8 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 12:1-8 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us to live as living sacrifices, dedicated to God and transformed by the renewing of our minds. It encourages us to embrace humility and recognize the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ. This teaching challenges us to use our gifts to serve others, fostering a sense of unity and mutual support within our faith communities.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Serving with Humility: Many believers find joy and fulfillment in serving others with humility. Whether volunteering in their communities, helping those in need, or supporting their church, their actions reflect the power of the gospel and their commitment to living as living sacrifices.
Embracing Diversity of Gifts: Faith communities that celebrate and utilize the diverse gifts of their members often experience vibrant and dynamic ministry. By recognizing and valuing each person's unique contributions, they foster a sense of unity and collaboration.
Renewed Minds and Lives: Individuals who have experienced the renewing of their minds through their relationship with Christ often testify to significant changes in their attitudes, behaviors, and priorities. This transformation impacts every aspect of their lives, allowing them to live in alignment with God's will.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
When we think about sacrifices, we often think of something costly, something we give up. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were physical offerings made to God, but in Romans 12:1-2, Paul tells us to offer our lives as living sacrifices. This is a radical concept! Rather than offering an animal or material possessions, Paul urges believers to present their bodies—our entire lives—as sacrifices to God. This is not just about physical actions; it’s about the whole of who we are—our thoughts, our words, our attitudes, and our actions.
Living for God is about a transformation of the heart and mind. Romans 12:2 tells us that we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This means that as we grow in our relationship with Christ, we are constantly changing and becoming more like Him. It’s not about just following rules or doing good deeds; it’s about being transformed into a new creation that desires to live for God in all areas of life.
As we offer our lives as living sacrifices, Paul also emphasizes the importance of humility and unity in the body of Christ (Romans 12:3-8). We each have different gifts and roles to play, but they all come together to build up the church. Our humility in recognizing that our gifts are for God’s glory—not our own—allows us to serve others with love and respect. “A transformed life is a humble life, one that seeks to serve God and others in love.”
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that align with the idea of living as sacrifices and being transformed for God:
1
Peter 2:5: “You
also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to
be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God
through Jesus Christ.”
Like
living stones, we are being built into a spiritual house, offering
our lives as spiritual sacrifices to God.
Philippians
2:3-4: “Do
nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility
value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but
each of you to the interests of the others.”
Humility
and a servant’s heart are at the core of the transformed life Paul
is speaking about.
Colossians
3:23-24: “Whatever
you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not
for human masters, since you know that you will receive an
inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are
serving.”
Every
action we take should be done as an offering to God, for He is the
one we ultimately serve.
Matthew
16:24: “Then
Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must
deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’”
Following
Jesus requires self-denial and a willingness to sacrifice our own
desires in order to live for Him.
Ephesians
4:1-2: “As
a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of
the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be
patient, bearing with one another in love.”
Living
a life worthy of our calling involves humility, gentleness, and love
toward one another.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: What does it mean to you to live a life that pleases God? Is it just about going to church, or is there more to it?
—Paul talks about what it means to live a life dedicated to God. It's not just about outward actions, but about a change that happens inside us.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 12:1-2. What does Paul mean by "living sacrifices"? How are we to be "transformed by the renewing of your mind"?
—In the Old Testament, people offered animal sacrifices to God. Paul says that now, we are to be the living sacrifices. This means offering our whole lives to God. Being "transformed by the renewing of your mind" means changing the way we think. It’s about letting God’s Spirit shape our thoughts and values. It’s a process, not something that happens overnight.
Read Romans 12:3. What does Paul say about humility? Why is it important to have a right view of ourselves?
—Paul emphasizes humility. We shouldn't think we are more important than we really are. Having a right view of ourselves means recognizing our gifts and talents, but also acknowledging that they come from God. It's about being grateful and using our gifts to serve others, not to build ourselves up.
Read Romans 12:4-5. What does Paul mean by the "body of Christ"? How are we all connected?
—The "body of Christ" is the church, all believers together. Just like a body has many different parts, each with its own function, the church has many different people, each with different gifts and talents. We are all connected and need each other.
Read Romans 12:6-8. What does Paul say about spiritual gifts? What are some examples of these gifts?
—God gives each of us different spiritual gifts to use for the good of the church. Some examples are prophecy, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, and showing mercy. The important thing is to use our gifts to serve others and build up the body of Christ.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 12:1-8), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul’s main point is that true Christian living involves offering our whole lives to God, being transformed by His Spirit, having a humble view of ourselves, and using our gifts to serve others in the body of Christ. The key takeaway is that following Jesus isn’t just about believing; it’s about living a life that reflects His love and character.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 12:1-8 is a powerful call to live for God as a transformed, humble body of believers. The idea of offering our lives as living sacrifices is a daily choice to live for God in everything we do—whether at home, at work, in our relationships, or in our community. Our entire lives should reflect our commitment to Him, not as a series of obligations, but as a joyful offering.
The transformation Paul speaks of is not just a one-time event but a continuous process. Our minds are being renewed, and as they are, we are more able to discern God’s will for our lives (Romans 12:2). This means that living for God isn’t just about following rules; it’s about developing a heart that desires to please Him and reflect His love to the world.
Paul also calls us to humility. We must recognize that our gifts and abilities come from God, and we are not meant to use them for our own glory, but for the benefit of others. The body of Christ functions best when we are all using our unique gifts to serve one another in love. Just as each part of the body plays a role, so each believer has a purpose in the church, and together we form a community that reflects the love of Christ to the world.
As we offer our lives as living sacrifices, let us not forget that this is a transformation, not a mere behavior modification. God is at work in us, changing us from the inside out, so that we can serve Him and others in humility, love, and unity. May our lives reflect this new identity in Christ—one that is characterized by transformation, service, and humility.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 12:1-8 calls us to live a life of worship. It’s about more than just attending church; it’s about allowing God to transform us from the inside out and using our gifts to serve others. Let’s ask God to show us how we can live as true “living sacrifices” in our daily lives.
Session 21: Romans 12:9-21 - Marks of a True Christian
Focus: Love, humility, and peace in everyday life.
READ: Romans 12:9-21
Purpose Statement: Paul encourages believers to live out their faith in practical ways, showing genuine love, humility, and peace. He emphasizes overcoming evil with good, a central theme of Christian conduct.
OVERVIEW
Romans 12:9-21 outlines the characteristics that define a true Christian, focusing on love, humility, and peace in everyday life. Paul provides practical guidance on how believers should conduct themselves in their relationships with others, emphasizing sincere love, humility, and living at peace with everyone. This passage highlights the impact of God's love on our behavior and interactions with others.
Pivotal Verses: "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves." - Romans 12:9-10
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 12:20-21, Paul writes, "On the contrary: 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." This might surprise some readers because it challenges the natural human response to repay evil with evil. Instead, Paul emphasizes the power of responding to hostility with kindness and goodness, which can lead to transformation and reconciliation.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that genuine love and humility involve responding to our enemies with acts of kindness. By doing so, we demonstrate the power of God's love and potentially lead others to repentance and reconciliation. This teaching encourages believers to rise above the cycle of retaliation and instead, practice radical love and peace, reflecting the character of Christ.
APPLYING: Romans 12:9-21 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 12:9-21 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us to embody the marks of a true Christian through sincere love, humility, and peace. It encourages us to evaluate our relationships and interactions, ensuring that they are characterized by genuine love and respect. This teaching also challenges us to respond to conflict and hostility with kindness and goodness, seeking to overcome evil with good.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Acts of Kindness: Many believers find opportunities to show God's love through simple acts of kindness. Whether it's helping a neighbor, volunteering, or offering support to someone in need, these actions reflect the love and compassion of Christ.
Peacemaking Efforts: Individuals who are committed to peacemaking often work to resolve conflicts and promote reconciliation in their communities. Their efforts demonstrate the power of the gospel to bring healing and unity.
Living with Humility: People who live with humility often inspire others through their selfless actions and genuine care for others. Their lives reflect the impact of God's love and serve as a powerful witness to the gospel.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
What does it truly mean to be a Christian in how we live, love, and interact with others? In Romans 12:9-21, Paul offers a practical description of what it looks like to live out the Christian life in everyday situations. He highlights qualities like love, humility, and peace—qualities that should mark every believer.
Paul begins with love: "Love must be sincere" (Romans 12:9). This means our love for others shouldn’t be fake or forced. It should come from a genuine desire for their well-being. This is the kind of love that doesn’t just love those who love us back, but also extends to those who might not be so kind to us. He also calls us to live in humility, not seeking revenge or promoting selfish gain, but leaving judgment to God and trusting in His perfect justice.
The passage also encourages peace in relationships. Instead of retaliating, we are to live in harmony, offering kindness even to those who persecute us. It can be hard, but living out the love and peace that Christ calls us to can transform relationships and bring glory to God. "A true Christian is one who reflects God's love, humility, and peace in their daily life."
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that highlight similar themes of love, humility, and peace:
1
Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love
is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is
not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is
not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not
delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects,
always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
This
passage beautifully describes the kind of sincere love Paul is
speaking of in Romans 12.
Matthew
5:9: “Blessed
are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Jesus
reminds us that peacemakers are truly reflecting God's heart in a
broken world.
Philippians
2:3-4: “Do
nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility
value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but
each of you to the interests of the others.”
Humility
is central to the Christian life. Paul urges us to consider others
first and seek their well-being over our own.
Ephesians
4:2-3: “Be
completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in
love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the
bond of peace.”
This
passage emphasizes humility, gentleness, and patience, much like what
Paul instructs in Romans 12.
Luke
6:27-28: “But
to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those
who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat
you.”
Jesus
teaches radical love that goes beyond what the world expects, just as
Paul encourages in Romans 12.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: What do you think are the most important qualities that make someone a true Christian?
—Paul gives us a list of qualities that should mark a Christian's life. It's like a checklist of how we should be living.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 12:9-13. What does Paul say about love? How should we feel about evil? What does it mean to be "devoted to one another in brotherly love"?
—Paul emphasizes that our love should be genuine, not fake. We should hate what is evil and cling to what is good. Being "devoted to one another in brotherly love" means having a deep care and affection for other Christians, treating them like family.
Read Romans 12:14-16. How should we treat those who persecute us? What does Paul say about humility?
—This is a hard one! Paul says we should bless those who persecute us, not curse them. He also stresses the importance of humility, associating with people of low position. We shouldn't be proud or look down on others.
Read Romans 12:17-19. What does Paul say about revenge? How should we respond to those who do us wrong?
—Paul is very clear: we should not take revenge. We should leave it to God to deal with those who do wrong. "Vengeance is mine; I will repay," says the Lord. Our job is to overcome evil with good.
Read Romans 12:20-21. What does Paul mean by "heaping burning coals" on someone's head? How can we overcome evil with good?
—This doesn't mean we should be mean to people! "Heaping burning coals" is a figurative way of saying we should show kindness to our enemies. Our kindness can have a powerful effect, maybe even leading them to repentance. We overcome evil with good by responding with love and compassion, even when it's difficult.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 12:9-21), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's main point is that true Christian living is marked by genuine love, humility, and a desire for peace. It's not easy, but it's how we are called to live. The key takeaway is that we should strive to put these qualities into practice in our everyday lives, showing love and compassion to everyone, even those who are difficult.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
In Romans 12:9-21, Paul gives us a vision of what life as a true Christian looks like in practice. It’s not just about beliefs or rituals, but about living out the gospel in our everyday interactions. The core of Christian living is love, a love that is sincere and selfless, not selfish or conditional. This love transforms how we treat others—especially those who may not treat us well. It’s the kind of love that reflects the heart of God.
Humility is another key characteristic of the Christian life. We’re called to live humbly, not seeking our own advantage, but considering the needs and interests of others. This humility enables us to serve others in love, without seeking recognition or reward. Living humbly also means trusting God to take care of justice and not retaliating when we are wronged.
Finally, peace should mark our lives. As Christians, we’re not meant to seek revenge or foster conflict, but to promote peace and harmony. This can be difficult, especially when we’re wronged, but Jesus shows us the way by loving His enemies, and Paul encourages us to do the same. By living out these marks of love, humility, and peace, we become a reflection of Christ in the world.
This passage challenges us to examine how we are living out our faith in the everyday moments of life. Are we showing sincere love to those around us, even when it's hard? Are we living with humility, putting others before ourselves? And are we seeking peace and reconciliation, rather than conflict? Let these questions guide you as you strive to live as a true Christian—one whose life reflects the love, humility, and peace of Christ.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 12:9-21 gives us a practical guide for how to live as Christians. It challenges us to love genuinely, to be humble, and to pursue peace. Let's ask God to help us live out these qualities in our relationships with others.
Session 22: Romans 13:1-7 - Submission to Authorities
Focus: Respect for government and authority.
READ: Romans 13:1-7
Purpose Statement: Paul teaches believers to respect governing authorities, as they are established by God. Christians are called to live peaceably in society, honoring the law and fulfilling their duties as citizens.
OVERVIEW
Romans 13:1-7 emphasizes the importance of submitting to governing authorities, recognizing that they have been established by God. Paul explains that resisting authority is equivalent to opposing God's ordinance, and he highlights the role of authorities in maintaining order and justice. This passage underscores the believer's responsibility to respect and obey government and authority, as long as it aligns with God's principles.
Pivotal Verses: "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God." - Romans 13:1
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 13:4, Paul writes, "For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer." This might surprise some readers because it presents governing authorities as God's servants, tasked with promoting good and restraining evil. Paul's perspective challenges the notion of viewing authority solely as a human institution and emphasizes its divine mandate.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that governing authorities are instituted by God to maintain order and justice in society. By describing them as "God's servants," Paul highlights the responsibility of authorities to act justly and for the welfare of the people. This teaching encourages believers to respect and obey authorities as part of their obedience to God, while also recognizing that authorities have a God-given duty to uphold righteousness and justice.
APPLYING: Romans 13:1-7 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 13:1-7 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us to respect and obey governing authorities, recognizing their role in maintaining order and justice. It encourages us to be law-abiding citizens and to support authorities in their efforts to promote the common good. This teaching also challenges us to pray for our leaders and to engage in civic responsibilities with a spirit of respect and cooperation.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Active Citizenship: Many believers demonstrate their respect for governing authorities through active citizenship. This includes voting, participating in community service, and supporting policies that align with God's principles of justice and compassion.
Praying for Leaders: Individuals who regularly pray for their leaders and authorities often experience a sense of peace and trust in God's sovereignty. Their prayers reflect their commitment to seeking God's guidance and blessing for those in positions of authority.
Advocating for Justice: Believers who advocate for justice and righteousness within their communities exemplify the gospel's call to support authorities in their God-given mandate. Their efforts contribute to a more just and equitable society.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
How do we, as believers, respond to authority? Romans 13:1-7 gives us a clear directive on how we should relate to governmental authorities. Paul tells us that all authority comes from God. In fact, “there is no authority except that which God has established” (Romans 13:1). This means that even when we don't agree with or understand the decisions made by those in power, we are still called to respect and submit to them as part of God’s divine order.
This doesn't mean that all authorities are perfect or that they always act in line with God’s will. However, Paul emphasizes that those in authority are placed there by God for the good of society and to punish wrongdoers. We are instructed to respect authority not because it is perfect, but because it is God-ordained. “Respecting authority is ultimately an act of trust in God’s sovereignty.”
Of course, this does not mean we must obey when authorities command us to do something against God's Word, but Paul is reminding us of the general principle that we should be good citizens, respecting the structures God has put in place for the well-being of society.
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that align with the principles of submission to authority:
1
Peter 2:13-17: “Submit
yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to
the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent
by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do
right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence
the ignorant talk of foolish people.”
Peter
echoes the same message of submitting to authority as part of our
Christian witness.
Titus
3:1-2: “Remind
the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient,
to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be
peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward
everyone.”
Paul
instructs believers to live peacefully and respectfully with those in
authority, emphasizing gentleness and good deeds.
Matthew
22:21: “Give
back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”
Jesus
teaches us to give due respect to the government while also
recognizing our ultimate allegiance to God.
Daniel
2:21: “He
changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He
gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.”
A
reminder that God is ultimately in control over who holds authority.
Acts
5:29: “Peter
and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human
beings!’”
While
we are called to respect earthly authorities, our obedience to God
comes first when human authorities demand what contradicts God's
commands.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Why do we have rules and laws in our society? What would happen if everyone just did whatever they wanted?
—Paul talks about why it's important to respect the government and those in authority. It's not always easy, but there are good reasons for it.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 13:1-2. What does Paul say about the authority of governing officials? Where does their authority come from?
—Paul says that all authority comes from God. Even though we might not always agree with the people in charge, their authority ultimately comes from God's plan. This means that resisting the government is, in a sense, resisting God's ordained order.
Read Romans 13:3-4. What is the purpose of government? What does Paul mean by "the sword"?
—The purpose of government is to maintain order and punish those who do wrong. "The sword" is a symbol of the government's power to enforce the law and punish evildoers. It's about keeping society safe and just.
Read Romans 13:5. Why should we submit to the authorities? Is it just because we're afraid of getting in trouble?
—We should submit not only because of fear of punishment, but also because it's the right thing to do, a matter of conscience. It's about recognizing God's authority and our role in society.
Read Romans 13:6-7. What practical things does Paul say we should do?
—Paul says we should pay our taxes and give respect to those in authority. These are practical ways we show our submission. It's about being responsible citizens and contributing to the well-being of our community.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 13:1-7), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? Does this mean we should blindly obey everything the government tells us to do?
—Paul's
main point is that we should respect and submit to the governing
authorities. However, this doesn't mean blind obedience in every
situation. If the government commands something that clearly goes
against God's law, our ultimate allegiance is to God. It's a balance
between respecting authority and following our conscience. This
passage is about general principles of good citizenship and
recognizing God’s ordained order, not about specific instances
where we might need to respectfully disagree with the government.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 13:1-7 challenges us to live as responsible citizens, respecting the authority that God has established. It’s easy to think that submission to authority only applies when we agree with the decisions made, but Paul’s words remind us that submission is an act of trust in God’s sovereignty, regardless of our personal opinions or circumstances. Governments, as imperfect as they may be, are part of God’s order in the world. And by respecting them, we honor God’s divine authority.
At the same time, Paul is not suggesting blind obedience to authorities. We are not to submit to commands that directly contradict God’s Word. Just as we see in Acts 5:29, when there is a conflict between obeying God and obeying man, our loyalty must lie with God.
It’s important to recognize that submission to authority is not just about following laws, but also about living peacefully and with integrity in society. By being good citizens, we reflect the values of God’s kingdom to the world around us. Respecting authority, whether in government, work, or family life, is part of our witness to Christ. When we live in a way that honors the authorities God has placed over us, we are demonstrating our trust in His ultimate control over all things.
As Christians, we should strive to be the kind of citizens that embody respect, honor, and a willingness to do good. In a world where authority can sometimes be viewed with suspicion or disdain, we are called to be different. Let us live out the values of love, peace, and respect as a testimony to God’s reign over all aspects of life, including the authority structures we live under.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 13:1-7 reminds us that respecting authority is an important part of living as a Christian. Let's pray for our leaders and seek to be good citizens, while always remembering that our highest allegiance is to God.
Session 23: Romans 13:8-14 - Living in the Light of Christ’s Return
Focus: Love, holiness, and readiness for Christ’s return.
READ: Romans 13:8-14
Purpose Statement: Paul urges believers to live with the understanding that time is short and the return of Christ is near. He stresses love as the fulfillment of the law and encourages living in purity, away from works of darkness.
OVERVIEW
Romans 13:8-14 emphasizes the importance of living in love, holiness, and readiness for Christ's return. Paul urges believers to fulfill the law by loving one another, to put aside deeds of darkness, and to live honorably as they await the return of Christ. This passage highlights the power of love and the urgency of living a life that reflects the light of Christ.
Pivotal Verses: "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." - Romans 13:8, 12
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 13:11, Paul writes, "And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed." This might surprise some readers because it suggests an urgent call to action, recognizing the imminence of Christ's return. Paul's perspective challenges complacency and emphasizes the importance of being spiritually alert and prepared.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that the awareness of Christ's imminent return should motivate believers to live lives characterized by love, holiness, and readiness. By encouraging believers to "wake up from your slumber," Paul is highlighting the need for vigilance and intentionality in their spiritual walk. This teaching underscores the urgency of aligning our lives with God's will and living in a way that reflects the light and love of Christ.
APPLYING: Romans 13:8-14 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 13:8-14 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us to live in love, holiness, and readiness for Christ's return. It encourages us to prioritize loving one another, to reject behaviors that are inconsistent with our faith, and to be mindful of the spiritual significance of our actions. This teaching challenges us to live each day with the awareness that Christ could return at any moment, inspiring us to live in a way that honors Him.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Acts of Love and Kindness: Many believers find opportunities to show Christ's love through acts of kindness and service. Whether it's helping a neighbor, volunteering, or offering support to someone in need, these actions reflect the love and light of Christ.
Living with Integrity: Individuals who commit to living with integrity and holiness often stand out in their communities. Their lives serve as a testimony to the power of the gospel and the hope of Christ's return.
Spiritual Vigilance: People who remain spiritually vigilant and engaged in their faith often inspire others to deepen their own walk with God. Their readiness for Christ's return motivates them to live purposefully and faithfully.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
Imagine living each day with the awareness that Christ could return at any moment. How would that change the way you live? In Romans 13:8-14, Paul encourages us to live in light of Christ’s return by focusing on love, holiness, and being ready for that day. He begins by emphasizing that the greatest commandment is to love one another. "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another" (Romans 13:8). This love isn’t just a feeling but an active, ongoing commitment to serve and care for others. Paul reminds us that love fulfills God’s law because it leads us to act in ways that honor God and care for others.
In addition to love, Paul calls us to live holy lives, putting aside the sinful behaviors that belong to the darkness. "The night is nearly over; the day is almost here" (Romans 13:12). The return of Christ is drawing near, and we are to live in the light of His coming, walking in holiness and making our lives a reflection of His kingdom. Our readiness for Christ’s return means not just avoiding sin but actively putting on the “armor of light”—the righteousness of Christ—so that we can live with integrity, honor, and grace.
“Living with the awareness of Christ’s return means that love and holiness should guide every part of our lives.”
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that highlight the themes of love, holiness, and readiness for Christ’s return:
1
Thessalonians 5:5-8: “You
are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not
belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like
others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober... put on faith
and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a
helmet.”
Paul
echoes the call to live as children of the light, living in readiness
for Christ's return and putting on the armor of righteousness.
Matthew
24:42-44: “Therefore
keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.
But understand this: if the owner of the house had known at what time
of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not
have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because
the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect
him.”
Jesus
teaches us the importance of being ready and watchful for His return.
Titus
2:11-13: “For
the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It
teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to
live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,
while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of
our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.”
Paul
instructs believers to live godly lives while waiting for Christ’s
return.
1
John 2:28: “And
now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may
be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.”
Living
in Christ with confidence and holiness prepares us for His return.
1
Peter 1:13-16: “Therefore,
with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace
to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. As
obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when
you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be
holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am
holy.'”
This
passage reinforces the call to holiness as we wait for Christ’s
return.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever had a special event you were really looking forward to? How did that anticipation affect how you lived your life in the days leading up to it?
—Paul talks about how we should live in light of Christ's return. It should affect how we live now.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 13:8-10. What is the only debt we should have? What does Paul say about love and the law?
—The only debt we should have is the debt of love. Love fulfills the law. If we truly love our neighbors, we won't steal from them, hurt them, or do other things the law forbids. Love is the foundation of a moral life.
Read Romans 13:11-12. What does Paul mean by "the hour has come for you to wake up"? What does he say about the "night" and the "day"?
—Paul is talking about spiritual wakefulness. He's urging believers to be alert and aware of the times. The "night" represents the time of darkness and sin, while the "day" represents the coming of Christ and the new life we have in Him. It's time to live as children of the light.
Read Romans 13:12-14. What does Paul mean by "put on the armor of light"? What kind of behavior should we avoid? What does it mean to "clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ"?
—"Putting on the armor of light" means living in a way that reflects Christ's character. It's about choosing good over evil. Paul lists several behaviors we should avoid, such as carousing, drunkenness, sexual immorality, quarreling, and jealousy. "Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ" means living so close to Him that His character becomes evident in our lives. It's like putting on a garment; we should live in Christ, displaying His attributes.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 13:8-14), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that we should live each day in light of Christ's
return. This means loving others, living morally pure lives, and
being ready to meet Him. The key takeaway is that our faith should
impact how we live *now*.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 13:8-14 encourages us to live in the light of Christ’s return with love, holiness, and readiness. Love is at the center of our Christian walk—loving others fulfills God’s law and shows the world who we belong to. Paul reminds us that this love should not be a one-time event but a continuous debt we owe to others. We are called to be people who actively love and serve those around us in a way that reflects Christ’s love for us.
In addition to love, Paul challenges us to live holy lives. The return of Christ is near, and this should influence the way we live each day. Just as we wouldn't want to be caught off-guard, we are called to "put aside the deeds of darkness" and "put on the armor of light." This means avoiding sinful behaviors and actively walking in the light of righteousness that Christ gives us. Living in holiness is not about perfection, but about living with integrity and aligning our actions with God's will.
Finally, we are reminded that readiness for Christ's return isn't about knowing the exact moment He will come but living each day as if He could return at any moment. We should be prepared in mind, body, and spirit, keeping our focus on Christ and living with a sense of anticipation and hope. This readiness impacts every area of our lives, from the way we treat others to how we handle our personal choices.
Let us live each day with the awareness that Christ is coming back soon. May our lives reflect His love, our hearts be set on holiness, and our actions be marked by readiness, so that when He returns, we will be confident and unashamed, eagerly awaiting His glorious return.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 13:8-14 reminds us that we should live each day as if Jesus were coming back tomorrow. Let's focus on loving others, living holy lives, and being ready for His return. How would living each day with Christ's return in mind change how we live?
Session 24: Romans 14:1-15:13 - Living in Harmony Despite Differences
Focus: Unity in the body of Christ amidst diversity.
READ: Romans 14:1-15:13
Purpose Statement: Paul addresses issues of differing opinions among believers regarding food, festivals, and other practices. He calls for mutual respect, love, and the pursuit of peace, emphasizing that all are accountable to God.
OVERVIEW
Romans 14:1-15:13 addresses the importance of unity in the body of Christ amidst diversity. Paul encourages believers to accept one another despite differing opinions on disputable matters, such as dietary practices and observing certain days. He emphasizes that each person should be fully convinced in their own mind and that we should not judge or look down on others for their differences. This passage highlights the need for mutual respect, love, and edification within the community of believers.
Pivotal Verses: "Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." - Romans 15:7
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 14:13, Paul writes, "Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister." This might surprise some readers because it challenges the tendency to judge others based on personal convictions. Paul's perspective emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the spiritual well-being of others over asserting one's own views, and fostering an environment of mutual acceptance and support.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that our love and concern for fellow believers should take precedence over our personal opinions on disputable matters. By avoiding actions that could cause others to stumble in their faith, we demonstrate genuine love and respect. This teaching encourages believers to focus on building each other up and maintaining unity, even when there are differences in practices or convictions.
APPLYING: Romans 14:1-15:13 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 14:1-15:13 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us to cultivate an attitude of acceptance and love towards fellow believers, despite differing opinions. It encourages us to focus on what unites us in Christ, rather than what divides us. This teaching challenges us to avoid judgment and to seek ways to edify and support one another, promoting harmony within the body of Christ.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Embracing Diversity: Many faith communities thrive by embracing diversity and valuing different perspectives. By focusing on shared faith in Christ and respecting varying opinions, they create an inclusive and supportive environment.
Promoting Unity: Believers who prioritize unity often engage in acts of reconciliation and bridge-building. Their efforts to foster understanding and cooperation within their communities reflect the power of the gospel.
Building Each Other Up: Individuals who focus on edifying and supporting fellow believers often create a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Their commitment to mutual respect and love strengthens the community and promotes spiritual growth.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
What happens when people who are different from each other come together in the body of Christ? We know that within any community, especially the church, people come from various backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. In Romans 14:1-15:13, Paul addresses how to handle differences in the church, particularly when it comes to matters that are not central to salvation—things like dietary choices, the observance of certain days, and personal convictions. The key message here is that despite our differences, we are called to live in harmony and unity.
Paul encourages believers to accept those who have differing opinions or practices on non-essential matters, as long as they are not violating core principles of the faith. "Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters" (Romans 14:1). The principle here is that we should not allow differences to divide us, but instead, allow love, patience, and understanding to reign. Even though we may not always agree, we are still called to respect each other and build each other up in faith.
Unity doesn't mean uniformity—it’s about respecting each other’s differences while staying focused on what unites us: our shared faith in Jesus Christ. “The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17). Ultimately, we are all members of the same body, with different roles, and we are called to honor one another in love.
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that align with the themes of unity, respect, and living in harmony despite differences:
1
Corinthians 12:12-14: “Just
as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form
one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one
Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or
free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.”
Paul
teaches that the church, despite its diversity, is one body in
Christ.
Ephesians
4:2-6: “Be
completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in
love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the
bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were
called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one
baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all
and in all.”
Unity
is to be pursued in humility, gentleness, and love, keeping peace as
the bond of unity in the body of Christ.
Philippians
2:1-2: “Therefore
if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any
comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any
tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being
like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one
mind.”
Paul
encourages the believers to have a unified mind and spirit, showing
compassion and tenderness towards one another.
Colossians
3:13-14: “Bear
with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance
against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these
virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect
unity.”
Unity
in the church is built on love and forgiveness, and love is the bond
that holds everything together.
Romans
15:5-7: “May
the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same
attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that
with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted
you, in order to bring praise to God.”
Paul
urges believers to have the same attitude toward each other as Christ
had toward us, accepting one another and glorifying God together.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever been part of a group where people had different opinions or ways of doing things? How did you handle those differences?
—Paul talks about how Christians can get along even when they have different ideas about certain things. It's all about love and understanding.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 14:1-6. What does Paul say about judging other believers over debatable matters? What are some examples of these "debatable matters"?
—Paul tells us not to judge other Christians over things that aren't essential to the faith. These "debatable matters" might include things like dietary restrictions (some early Christians struggled to give up Jewish food laws) or observing certain holidays. The important thing is that each person is sincere in their faith and seeks to honor God.
Read Romans 14:7-9. Whose Lord are we? What does this mean for how we should treat one another?
—We all belong to the Lord. Whether we live or die, we are His. This means we should treat each other with respect and understanding, because we are all serving the same Lord.
Read Romans 14:10-12. Why shouldn't we judge one another? What does Paul say about God's judgment?
—We shouldn't judge each other because God is the ultimate judge. We are all accountable to Him. It's not our job to condemn others.
Read Romans 14:13-18. What does Paul say about putting a stumbling block in someone's way? What is the kingdom of God about?
—We should be careful not to do anything that might cause another believer to stumble in their faith. Love is more important than insisting on our own way. The kingdom of God is not about food and drink, but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. It's about the heart, not just outward actions.
Read Romans 15:1-6. How should the "strong" (those who are more mature in their faith) treat the "weak" (those who are newer or less mature)? What is Paul's prayer for the Roman church?
—The "strong" should bear with the failings of the "weak" and not please themselves. We should be patient and understanding with those who are struggling. Paul prays that God would give them unity, following the example of Christ.
Read Romans 15:7-13. How should we welcome one another? What does Paul say about Christ's ministry to both Jews and Gentiles?
—We should welcome one another just as Christ welcomed us. This means accepting people who are different from us. Paul reminds them that Jesus came to serve both Jews and Gentiles, bringing them together into one family.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 14:1-15:13), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is that we should live in harmony with one another, even
when we have differences of opinion. Love, understanding, and
humility are more important than insisting on our own way. The key
takeaway is that we should focus on the essentials of the faith and
show grace to one another in the non-essentials.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 14:1-15:13 gives us a blueprint for how to live in harmony within the body of Christ despite differences. The church is not a place where everyone must think the same, act the same, or even hold the same convictions on all non-essential matters. Instead, Paul calls us to a greater vision—one of unity in diversity. We should accept each other as brothers and sisters in Christ, regardless of our different opinions on secondary issues, because what unites us in Christ is far greater than what divides us.
This passage calls us to act in love and humility toward one another, focusing on building each other up rather than tearing each other down. If we disagree on something, we should be patient and gentle, allowing room for differences while maintaining our common commitment to Christ. The goal is to pursue peace and mutual edification, putting the needs of others above our own.
Above all, Paul reminds us that our unity in Christ is not for our own glory, but for God's glory. When we accept one another, as Christ accepted us, we are reflecting God's love and bringing praise to Him. The kingdom of God is about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, not about perfect conformity in every matter.
As we live in harmony despite our differences, we display the beauty of God’s kingdom to the world around us. The love and grace we show to others—especially to those who may not share all of our convictions—becomes a testimony of the gospel itself. Let’s strive to reflect that love, humility, and unity in all that we do.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 14:1-15:13 reminds us that unity in the church is precious. Let's strive to love one another, accept our differences, and focus on what unites us in Christ. How can we apply these principles to our own church community?
Session 25: Romans 15:14-33 - Paul’s Ministry and Future Plans
Focus: Paul’s mission and desire to visit Rome.
READ: Romans 15:14-33
Purpose Statement: Paul shares his plans for ministry, his hope to visit the Roman believers, and his desire for prayer support. He encourages the believers to continue their work in unity and mutual encouragement.
OVERVIEW
Romans 15:14-33 provides insight into Paul's ministry and his future plans, including his desire to visit Rome. Paul commends the believers in Rome for their faith and maturity and explains his commitment to preaching the gospel to the Gentiles. He shares his plans to visit Jerusalem to deliver aid to the saints and expresses his hope to eventually travel to Rome and beyond. This passage highlights Paul's dedication to his mission and his desire to strengthen the faith of believers in Rome.
Pivotal Verses: "It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation." - Romans 15:20
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 15:22-23, Paul writes, "This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you. But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to visit you," This might surprise some readers because it reveals that despite Paul's deep desire to visit Rome, he was often hindered by his mission to preach the gospel in unreached areas. Paul's perspective challenges the notion that personal desires should always take precedence and highlights his dedication to fulfilling God's calling.
Clarification: Paul is emphasizing that his primary mission was to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, and this often took priority over his personal plans. His commitment to spreading the gospel and reaching unreached regions demonstrates his selflessness and obedience to God's calling. This teaching encourages believers to prioritize God's mission and to be flexible and patient when personal plans are delayed for the sake of the gospel.
APPLYING: Romans 15:14-33 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 15:14-33 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the importance of dedication to God's mission and the willingness to prioritize His calling over personal plans. It encourages us to support and strengthen one another in our faith journeys and to be open to God's leading, even when it means delaying or changing our own plans. This teaching also challenges us to be committed to spreading the gospel and serving others with selflessness and obedience.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Missionary Work: Many missionaries dedicate their lives to preaching the gospel in unreached areas, often facing challenges and delays in their personal plans. Their commitment to spreading the message of Christ reflects the same dedication and obedience that Paul demonstrated.
Serving Others: Believers who prioritize serving others and meeting the needs of their communities often find that their own desires and plans take a backseat to the mission of showing God's love. Their actions reflect the selflessness and dedication to God's calling that Paul exemplified.
Supporting Fellow Believers: Individuals who invest time and effort in strengthening the faith of others, whether through discipleship, mentorship, or community support, contribute to the growth and maturity of the body of Christ. Their commitment to building up fellow believers mirrors Paul's desire to strengthen the faith of the Roman Christians.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
In Romans 15:14-33, we see Paul sharing his heart and his plans for the future. His desire to visit the believers in Rome is driven by his deep love for the church and his mission to spread the gospel. Paul was not just an apostle, he was a missionary at heart. He wasn’t content with the church simply being established in one place—he wanted to keep pushing forward to reach more people with the good news of Jesus Christ. His desire to visit Rome wasn’t just for fellowship but also to continue the mission God had given him.
Paul is a great example of a servant of Christ who always thought beyond himself. He had a clear vision of the larger mission of the kingdom of God. He was willing to suffer for the gospel, and he was committed to working together with others to see the gospel spread. “It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known” (Romans 15:20). For Paul, the mission wasn’t about comfort, personal glory, or recognition—it was about fulfilling God’s call and advancing the work of the kingdom, no matter the cost.
Paul’s hope in visiting Rome was also strategic. He saw Rome as a key place to help spread the gospel further into the Western world, and he was passionate about supporting the believers there. His desire was not to be served but to serve—to strengthen the faith of the Roman Christians and to encourage them as they continued to grow in Christ.
How can we learn from Paul’s example? Are we living with a sense of mission, beyond our own needs, to help others know the love of Christ?
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that speak to the mission of the apostle Paul and the heart for spreading the gospel:
Acts
20:22-24: “And
now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing
what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy
Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I
consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the
race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of
testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”
Paul
was committed to fulfilling the mission, even in the face of
persecution and hardship.
Philippians
1:21-24: “For
to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living
in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I
choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart
and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary
for you that I remain in the body.”
Paul
shows his sacrificial heart and commitment to the mission of Christ,
even when it’s difficult.
Acts
9:15: “But
the Lord said to Ananias, ‘Go! This man is my chosen instrument to
proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of
Israel.’”
God
reveals the mission He has given to Paul, making clear the apostle’s
role in reaching the world.
Romans
1:10-13: “In
my prayers at all times; and I pray that now at last by God’s will
the way may be opened for me to come to you. I long to see you so
that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong—
that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s
faith.”
Here,
Paul expresses his long-held desire to visit the church in Rome,
showing his heart for encouraging and strengthening believers.
2
Corinthians 5:14-15: “For
Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died
for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who
live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for
them and was raised again.”
Paul’s
mission was fueled by the love of Christ, compelling him to live and
work for God’s glory and the salvation of others.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever had a strong desire to do something important, like visit a special place or see a loved one? What motivated that desire?
—Paul talks about his deep desire to visit Rome and why it was so important to him.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 15:14-16. Why does Paul feel confident in writing to the Roman believers? What does he mean by "minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles"?
—Paul is confident that the Roman Christians are full of goodness and knowledge. He calls himself a "minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles," meaning he was specifically called to share the Gospel with non-Jewish people. It was his God-given mission.
Read Romans 15:17-21. What does Paul boast about? Is this boasting in a bad way? What was his ambition?
—Paul boasts in Christ Jesus, not in himself. He's proud of what God has done through him. His ambition was to preach the Gospel where Christ was not yet known. He wanted to build on a foundation, not someone else's work.
Read Romans 15:22-24. What has prevented Paul from visiting Rome so far? What are his plans now?
—Paul had been busy with his missionary journeys and other responsibilities. He had been prevented from visiting Rome until now. His plan now is to visit Rome on his way to Spain.
Read Romans 15:25-29. What is Paul’s immediate plan before going to Rome? What can we learn from Paul’s willingness to serve the church in Jerusalem?
—Before going to Rome, Paul is going to Jerusalem to deliver a financial gift from the churches in Macedonia and Achaia to the poor among the believers there. This shows his care for the whole body of Christ, not just the churches he personally planted. It shows unity and compassion.
Read Romans 15:30-33. What does Paul ask the Roman Christians to do for him? What is his concern regarding his trip to Jerusalem?
—Paul asks them to pray for him. He knows his trip to Jerusalem could be dangerous because some people there oppose him. He asks for prayer that he would be kept safe and that his ministry would be effective.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 15:14-33), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is to share his ministry and his future plans with the
Roman church. He emphasizes his calling to the Gentiles, his desire
to visit Rome, and his commitment to the whole body of Christ. The
key takeaways are the importance of missions, the power of prayer,
and the unity of the church.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
In Romans 15:14-33, we see a glimpse into Paul’s heart for ministry and his unwavering desire to continue spreading the gospel. His mission was driven by the love of Christ, a sense of calling, and a commitment to build up the church. Paul didn’t view his life as his own—he considered it all an offering to God for the furtherance of the gospel. He lived with a sense of purpose, always focused on the mission and the people he was called to serve.
Paul’s longing to visit Rome reflects his heart for unity within the body of Christ and his strategic thinking about advancing the kingdom. Even though he had already accomplished so much, he wasn’t satisfied. He had a vision for the future, and he believed that God had more for him to do. His desire to encourage and strengthen believers in Rome shows how much he valued community and mutual growth in the faith.
This passage challenges us to think about our own approach to ministry and mission. Do we live with a sense of purpose and mission? Are we intentional about serving others and building up the body of Christ? Like Paul, we should desire to be a part of something larger than ourselves—to see the gospel advance and to encourage others along the way.
As we reflect on Paul’s plans and his heart for the church, let’s ask ourselves: How can we serve the kingdom today? Are we living with the same commitment to the mission and to the people of God? God has placed each of us in His family with a role to play. Let’s be intentional about fulfilling that role and living out the gospel in a way that will impact others for His glory.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 15:14-33 gives us a glimpse into Paul's heart for ministry. It reminds us of the importance of supporting missions, praying for our leaders, and working together as a church to spread the Gospel. Let's consider how we can be more involved in these things.
Session 26: Romans 16:1-27 - Final Greetings and Benediction
Focus: Relationships in the body of Christ and closing encouragement.
READ: Romans 16:1-27
Purpose Statement: Paul concludes the letter with personal greetings and commendations to various individuals. He urges believers to remain steadfast and guard against those who cause division, ending with a doxology to God’s glory.
OVERVIEW
Romans 16:1-27 is a personal and heartfelt conclusion to Paul's letter, where he sends final greetings and offers a benediction. In this passage, Paul acknowledges and commends various individuals within the Roman church, highlighting the importance of relationships and unity within the body of Christ. He also provides final encouragement and warnings to the believers, emphasizing the importance of remaining faithful to the gospel and avoiding divisions.
Pivotal Verses: "Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send greetings." - Romans 16:16
THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU
In Romans 16:17-18, Paul writes, "I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people." This might surprise some readers because it reveals Paul's concern for maintaining the purity of the gospel and the unity of the church. His warnings highlight the importance of being vigilant against false teachings and divisive influences.
Clarification: Paul is teaching that believers must be discerning and cautious when it comes to teachings and behaviors that could disrupt the unity and integrity of the church. By urging the Roman Christians to "watch out" and "keep away" from divisive individuals, Paul emphasizes the need to protect the community from false teachings and maintain a focus on the true gospel. This teaching encourages believers to prioritize unity, sound doctrine, and mutual encouragement within the body of Christ.
APPLYING: Romans 16:1-27 in Our Daily Lives
The passage from Romans 16:1-27 can be applied in our daily lives by reminding us of the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships within our faith communities. It encourages us to acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of others and to support one another in our spiritual journeys. This teaching also challenges us to be vigilant against divisive influences and to promote unity and sound doctrine within the church.
MODERN EXAMPLES: of the Gospel's Power
Building Strong Relationships: Many believers find joy and fulfillment in fostering strong, supportive relationships within their faith communities. By actively encouraging and affirming one another, they create a sense of unity and belonging.
Promoting Unity: Individuals who prioritize unity often engage in peacemaking and reconciliation efforts within their communities. Their actions reflect the gospel's call to maintain harmony and mutual support among believers.
Standing Against False Teachings: Believers who are committed to sound doctrine and discernment actively work to protect their communities from false teachings and divisive influences. Their vigilance helps preserve the integrity of the gospel message.
THINK ABOUT THIS:
As Paul closes his letter to the Romans, we see a beautiful picture of relationships within the body of Christ. Romans 16 is filled with personal greetings and encouragements to various individuals who were important to Paul’s ministry. This chapter reminds us that the Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation. Paul’s ministry and the work of the early church were all about relationships—building connections, supporting one another, and encouraging each other in the faith.
In the early church, Paul had formed deep, meaningful relationships with people from all walks of life—men and women, Jews and Gentiles, slaves and free, rich and poor. He mentions people like Phoebe, Priscilla and Aquila, and others who played crucial roles in the spread of the gospel. The way Paul speaks of them shows the importance of every believer in God’s work. No one was too insignificant. Everyone mattered. “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send greetings” (Romans 16:16).
This final chapter is a reminder for us today that the body of Christ is a community—a community of relationships. We are not called to simply show up to church services; we are called to be a part of the family, to build one another up, support each other, and grow together in the faith. Our relationships with fellow believers are vital to our spiritual journey. Paul’s final words serve as a reminder to encourage one another and stay grounded in the truth of the gospel.
CROSS-REFERENCE:
Here are other scriptures that emphasize the importance of relationships and encouragement within the body of Christ:
1
Corinthians 12:12-27: “Just
as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form
one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one
Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or
free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.”
Paul
speaks of the unity and interconnectedness of believers as members of
the body of Christ.
Galatians
6:2: “Carry
each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of
Christ.”
In
the body of Christ, we are called to support each other and share one
another’s burdens.
Ephesians
4:1-3: “As
a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of
the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be
patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep
the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Unity,
humility, and patience are essential in relationships within the
church.
Philippians
2:1-4: “Therefore
if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any
comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any
tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being
like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one
mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in
humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own
interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Paul
emphasizes love, humility, and unity in relationships with fellow
believers.
Hebrews
10:24-25: “And
let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good
deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of
doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the
Day approaching.”
The
importance of encouraging one another and remaining connected in
fellowship is vital for spiritual growth.
LEAD-IN QUESTION: Have you ever received a letter or card that really encouraged you? What made it so special?
—Paul's letter to the Romans ends with personal greetings and a final blessing. It's like the closing of a special conversation.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Romans 16:1-2. Who is Phoebe? What does Paul ask the church to do for her?
—Phoebe was a deaconess in the church at Cenchreae, likely a port city near Corinth. It’s possible she carried Paul’s letter to Rome. Paul asks the Roman church to welcome her and help her with whatever she needs. This shows how Paul valued and respected women in ministry.
Read Romans 16:3-16. What do these verses tell us about the early church?
—These verses show us that the early church was made up of real people with real names. Paul mentions many people, both men and women, who were active in the church. It shows that the church was a community of diverse individuals working together.
Read Romans 16:17-20. What warning does Paul give the church?
—Paul warns against those who cause divisions and teach false doctrines. He urges the church to be aware of them and avoid them. It’s a reminder that even in the early church, there were challenges to its unity.
Read Romans 16:25-27. What does Paul say about God's power and wisdom?
—Paul ends his letter with a beautiful benediction, praising God for His power and wisdom. He emphasizes that the Gospel has now been made known to all nations, according to God's eternal plan. It’s a reminder of the greatness and glory of God.
Looking back over the whole passage (Romans 16:1-27), what is the main idea Paul is trying to get across? What are the key takeaways for us?
—Paul's
main point is to conclude his letter with personal greetings, a
warning against false teaching, and a final blessing. It shows his
care for the church in Rome and his desire for their spiritual
well-being. The key takeaways are the importance of community, the
need to be discerning about what we believe, and the ultimate glory
of God.
TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:
Romans 16 is not just a list of names—it’s a powerful reminder of the value of relationships in the body of Christ. Paul’s closing remarks demonstrate that God’s kingdom is built on community. The church is not a place of isolated individuals but a body of interconnected people, each with a unique role to play. Whether serving behind the scenes or in the spotlight, each believer is important in God’s work.
This passage challenges us to examine our own relationships within the body of Christ. Are we building meaningful, supportive relationships with fellow believers? Are we encouraging and lifting up those around us? The church should be a place where people are known, loved, and supported in their faith journey. We are called to be a family, and just like any family, we are to support, pray for, and care for one another.
Paul’s final words also serve as a reminder of the importance of staying grounded in the gospel. His closing benediction, “The God of peace be with you all. Amen” (Romans 16:20), emphasizes the peace and unity that comes from knowing Christ and being in community with one another. As we leave this study, let’s carry that peace into our relationships, living out the truth of the gospel in our interactions with others.
The body of Christ is a living, breathing community, and we are all called to contribute to its growth. Let’s be intentional about building strong, loving, and Christ-centered relationships, both in the church and in our daily lives. By doing so, we help to build up the body and bring glory to God.
CLOSING THOUGHT:
Romans 16 reminds us that the church is a community of people who are called to love and serve one another. It also reminds us of the importance of staying true to the teachings of the Gospel. Let's strive to build strong relationships within our church and always give glory to God. What are some specific ways we can strengthen the bonds of fellowship in our church community?
The book of Romans is a theological letter written by the Apostle Paul that explains the core message of the Christian faith: salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. It addresses both the universal problem of sin and God's provision of righteousness through grace, showing that all people, regardless of background, are in need of God's mercy. As Paul writes in Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”
1: Romans 1:1-17 - Introduction and the Power of the Gospel
2: Romans 1:18-32 - God's Wrath Against Sinful Humanity
3: Romans 2:1-16 - God’s Righteous Judgment
4: Romans 2:17-29 - True Circumcision: A Matter of the Heart
5: Romans 3:1-20 - The Universal Problem of Sin
6: Romans 3:21-31 - Justification by Faith
7: Romans 4:1-25 - Abraham’s Faith as an Example
8: Romans 5:1-11 - Peace with God Through Faith
9: Romans 5:12-21 - Adam and Christ: Two Paths of Humanity
10: Romans 6:1-14 - Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ
11: Romans 6:15-23 - Slaves to Righteousness
12: Romans 7:1-6 - Released from the Law
13: Romans 7:7-25 - Struggling with Sin
14: Romans 8:1-17 - Life in the Spirit
15: Romans 8:18-30 - Future Glory
16: Romans 8:31-39 - God’s Unfailing Love
17: Romans 9:1-29 - God’s Sovereign Choice
18: Romans 9:30-10:21 - Righteousness by Faith, Not by Law
19: Romans 11:1-36 - God’s Plan for Israel
20: Romans 12:1-8 - Living Sacrifices
21: Romans 12:9-21 - Marks of a True Christian
22: Romans 13:1-7 - Submission to Authorities
23: Romans 13:8-14 - Living in the Light of Christ’s Return
24: Romans 14:1-15:13 - Living in Harmony Despite Differences
25: Romans 15:14-33 - Paul’s Ministry and Future Plans
26: Romans 16:1-27 - Final Greetings and Benediction
Overview of the Book of Romans and Its Relevance Today
The book of Romans is a powerful letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christian believers in Rome, and it remains one of the most significant books in the New Testament. In this letter, Paul lays out the foundations of Christian doctrine, covering key themes such as the gospel, salvation, grace, faith, and righteousness. Paul’s letter offers both a deep theological understanding and practical advice for living out the Christian faith. It presents a clear vision of how the gospel is God's power for salvation, showing that all people—Jews and Gentiles alike—are in need of God’s grace and mercy.
One of the primary messages in Romans is that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 3:23-24 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” This reminds us that salvation is not earned through good works or religious rituals, but it is God’s free gift to us because of His love and grace. In a world that often promotes self-reliance and self-improvement, Romans humbly redirects us to Christ, the source of true salvation.
The letter also speaks to the struggle between the old life of sin and the new life in Christ. Paul encourages believers to live according to the Spirit and not the flesh, reminding us that through Jesus, we are set free from the power of sin and death (Romans 6:4-7). This message is as relevant today as it was when Paul first wrote it, as many people face similar struggles with temptation, sin, and the desire for change. We are reminded to continually renew our minds and live in obedience to God’s will.
Romans also provides guidance on how Christians should relate to one another within the church and to the wider world. In the midst of a divided and often contentious society, the message of unity in the body of Christ is needed more than ever. In Romans 12:4-5, Paul compares the church to a body, saying, “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” We are called to serve one another in love and humility, and to strive for peace and unity, even when we have differences.
As the well-known preacher Charles Spurgeon once said, “The book of Romans is the most systematic and complete of all of Paul’s epistles, and it is the fullest and clearest exposition of the gospel to be found in the New Testament.” And as theologian John Stott points out, “The Letter to the Romans is a statement of the gospel and a call to a radical, transformed life through the gospel.” In a world where people are searching for meaning, hope, and truth, the teachings of Romans offer timeless guidance that can lead us to peace with God and a deeper understanding of His love for us.
For today’s believer, Romans speaks directly to our personal faith journeys, reminding us that no matter our age, our past, or our circumstances, we are all equally in need of God’s grace. As we study Romans, we are invited to deepen our understanding of God’s salvation plan and live lives that reflect His love and righteousness, both within the church and in the world around us.