Romans: The Gospel of GodSmall Group Participants Guide

Ambassador Church www.ambassadorchurch.com info@ambassadorchurch.com!

Rome, ItalyAMBASSADOR CHURCH IN THE BOOK OF ROMANS

I have always wanted to go to Rome, but never had the opportunity until this past summer. My

family went there and spent several days walking around this incredibly historic city. Not only is

this city important to our western civilization, but it is very important to the New Testament.

While the events of the New Testament was unfolding, Rome was the most influential city in the

world.

Specifically, Rome had a growing community of Christians who were anxious to understand how

to live out this new faith. I remember driving through Rome on a bus and going down one street

while the tour guide told us that we were driving down the street where the early Christians lived.

While the street was now full of stores and buildings, just being there reminded me that these

Christians really DID live. They were not fictional characters in a book, but actual people who

struggled to figure out the gospel and how it effects their lives.

While we live on a different continent, speak a different language, and are separated by nearly

2,000 years, we are still standing in their shoes. We are similarly trying to figure out how to live

the gospel and let it transform our lives. Enjoy learning from the early Christians and see what

we can learn about the gospel of God. God was working then, and he is working now!

God bless your study,

Ethan Hedberg, Associate Pastor

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References

The Grace of God: A Journey of Discovery in the Book of Romans by Alan Perkins.

MacArthurs Quick Reference Guide to the Bible by John MacArthur. W Publishing.

The Message of Romans by Timothy Keller. Redeemer Presbyterian Church.

The NIV Application Commentary: Romans by Douglas Moo. Zondervan.

Paul for Everyone: Romans Part One & Two by N.T. Wright. Westminster John Knox Press.

Peace with God: The Message of Romans by Gordan Cheng. Matthias Media.

Romans by Kent Hughes. Crossways Books.

Romans by Grant Osborne. IVP.

Romans: Encountering the Gospels Power by John Stott. IVP.

Swindolls New Testament Insights: Romans by Charles Swindoll. Zondervan.

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Study FormatWhat you can expect in this workbook

Overview- This is where we will try to get you up to speed with what has been happening in the book and/or the immediate context. This will give you the main point of that section of Scripture.

Key Verse- Each chapter will have a key verse to learn or memorize as part of our discipleship process. As we meditate and memorize Scripture, our lives will begin to be shaped by Scripture.

Discussion- Each chapter has about 8-12 questions to help guide your discussion. As noted above, dont feel tied to these questions, but know you have freedom to change and adapt them as necessary. Please note the final three questions which will ask you to apply, pray, and announce each week. ! Apply-While there may be some points of application in previous questions, ! try to help each person find at least one key point of application each week. ! Pray-One of the greatest blessings of a small group is the ability to pray for each ! other. This can be done many ways (see the small group leaders manuel for ! ideas), it is important that pray accompanies each small group meeting. Structure ! each meeting with time to pray. It is never beneficial when prayer is rushed or !tacked on as a nice way to close the evening. Make sure you give time for prayer ! to unfold and touch each persons life.! Announce-As a small group leader, you have a unique ability to remind people ! of special things happening in the church each week. You dont have to announce ! every activity, but you can pick 2-3 important announcements that will further ! spiritual growth in your group and in the church. One thing we want each small ! group to do is outreach. Take time to find a local outreach that you all can ! do ! together and be excited about.

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Romans: IntroductionSEPTEMBER 11, 2011 - WEEK 1! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 1

OVERVIEWRomans stands out as one of the most significant books in the Bible. It was written by Paul and oers his most complete summary of the Gospel. It was always his desire to visit the church in Rome in order to edify them (1:11), preach the gospel to them (1:15), and to get to know the Christians. The church in Rome probably began at Pentecost when Jewish believers experienced the power of the Holy Spirit, believed in Jesus as their savior, and settled in Rome. While the church had no abhorrent theology or ungodly living for Paul to address, Pauls primary purpose of writing this epistle is to teach the great truths of the gospel of grace to believers who had never received the apostles instruction.

John MacArthur says, The study of the Epistle to the Romans remains a required course in the school of Christian discipleship. The reason is because it clearly addresses key doctrines that help us all understand the gospel of God!

1) ! Mankinds sinfulness--Sin separates every human from God; only Jesus Christ can reconcile God and man (3:9-20).

2) Justification by faith--Complete freedom from judgment and the bondage of sin comes by faith alone in Jesus Christ (1:16-17; 3:21-4:25; 5:12, 18).

3) Sanctification--Through Christs atonement, believers are glorified and set apart for the service of God (6:1-8:38; 15:16).

4) Reconciliation--The sacrifice of Jesus Christ renew the relationship between God and man (5:1, 10-11).

In addition to telling us what it is to be a Christian, this letter also steers us away from our own small concerns to the wonder and glory of God himself, and his purpose for this world. Romans teaches us how God makes us righteous, which happens only through the gospel--Jesus died to take away the just punishment we all deserve.

KEY VERSEFor I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is Gods power for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek. For in it Gods righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it was written: The righteous will live by faith.

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Romans 1:16-17 (CSB)

DISCUSSION1. Imagine that you lived in Rome in the days of Paul. You would be in the capital city of the world empire. The greatest sports, art, and politics are in your city. Everyday, you hear a dozen languages in the street and see people worshiping dierent religions as well as the emperor. Now imagine someone told you about Jesus who lived in Jerusalem, died as a criminal, raised from the dead, and now his followers are doing great miracles and powerful teachings about a new way to live under the complete lordship of Jesus Christ. You believed this testimony, but what did you commit to? What is this new faith?

- When and how did you come in contact with the power of the gospel?

- How is it dierent now compared to early Christians in Rome?

- What do you appreciate about early Roman Christians?

2.! Have you read Romans before? What are some verses or themes that stand out to

you? Why are they significant?

3. It is clear that Romans has a lot to say about the Gospel. Without directly referring to Romans, how would you summarize the gospel in a couple sentences?

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-What part of the gospel resonates with your soul the most?

-What part of the gospel are you most thankful for?

4. What do you hope God will speak to you during this study over the next seven months? What do you want God to do in your life during this journey?

5. Apply: How does the truth and glory of gospel apply to your life? What can you apply to your life today?

6. Pray: Turn what you hope and want God to do in your life into a prayer. Take turns praying for each other and ask the Holy Spirit to move in dramatic ways in each persons life.

7. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant announcements. Also begin to brainstorm an outreach your group can participate in over the next three months.

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Romans: The Gospel of GodSEPTEMBER 18, 2011 - WEEK 2! ! ! ! ROMANS 1:1-17

OVERVIEWLeon Morris has written, God is the most important word in this epistle. Romans is a book

about God. No topic is treated with anything like the frequency of God. Everything Paul touches

in this letter he relates to God....There is nothing like it elsewhere. (The Epistle to the Romans,

IVP, 1988, p. 40.) So the Christians good news is the gospel of God. The apostles did not invent

it; it was revealed and entrusted to them by God.

In this first look into Romans 1, well start by looking at who Paul was, and what his plan was in

writing Romans.

KEY VERSEPaul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle and singled out for Gods good news.

Romans 1:1 (CSB)

DISCUSSIONRead Romans 1:1-7.

1. In this introduction, we learn a lot about Paul. What do we learn about Paul, his passion, and goal in life?

2. Paul goes straight to the heart of the gospel. What do we learn about the content of this gospel (e.g., the message of the gospel)?

a. Its origin (v. 2)?

b. Its subject (vv. 3-4)?

c. Its result (vv. 5-6)?

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Read Romans 1:8-15.

3. What is the immediate goal of Paul?

Read Romans 1:16-17.

4. Why does Paul refer to being not ashamed or oended by the gospel? In what ways can the gospel oend or be despised?

5. What does Paul mean when he calls the gospel the power of God? In what way is it powerful?

6. What releases the power of the gospel into our lives? (What is the qualification for it?)

7. To understand v. 17, we need to understand this verse in its original context. He quotes from Habakkuk and in this book, Habakkuk is complaining bitterly about Israels wickedness and asks God why he doesnt act. God says he promises to act and will use the wicked nation of Babylon. This appalled Habakkuk and this is worse than letting the disobedience continue. God tells him that Babylon will also be punished and Gods justice will prevail. He says, the righteous shall live by his faith (Habakkuk 2:4).

Now imagine you had a disobedient Christian member of your family and God told you he would punish him/her by allowing a wicked and evil person to utterly

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destroy their life. How would you react? How might Habakkuk 2:4 apply? Can you imagine why Paul would quote Habakkuk in Romans 1?

8. Apply: How does the truth and glory of gospel apply to your life? What can you apply to your life today?

9. Pray: Take time to thank God for the Gospel. Ask for our lives to be filled with power as we meditate, read, and study Gods word. Take time to pray for each others needs.

10. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant announcements. Also continue to brainstorm an outreach your group can participate in over the next three months. Who will follow up on ideas?

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Romans: The Wrath of GodSEPTEMBER 25, 2011 - WEEK 3! ! ! ! ROMANS 1:18-32

OVERVIEW

Last week we discussed the gospel of God and now we turn to his wrath. This is a hard topic and must be entered into cautiously. These verses describe the reality of the way the world is today. Everyone can see that the world is messed up and not functioning the way it was designed to be. The basic reason is because of sin. People refuse to knowledge God, let alone, worship him. As a result, God has given us over to our sin and its consequences.

Paul will soon develop the theme of the righteousness of God, but here he begins with the unrighteousness of man. Wiersbe says, Until man knows he is a sinner, he cannot appreciate the gracious salvation God oers in Jesus Christ. Paul followed the basic Bible pattern first Law and condemnation; then grace and salvation. Paul will paint an ugly picture of sinners, but we cannot avoid it. Rather than teaching evolution (starting low and ending high), Paul teaches devolution (starting high and ending low). He will touch on four categories of mans devolution: intelligence (vv. 18-20), ignorance (vv. 21-23), indulgence (vv. 24-27), and impenitence (vv. 28-32).

Paul comments the previous topic (The Gospel of God) with this topic (The Wrath of God) like this:

Paul: I am not ashamed of the gospel (v. 16).

Q: Why not, Paul?

Paul: Because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes (v. 16).

Q: How so?

Paul: Because in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, that is, Gods way of justifying sinners (v. 17).

Q: But why is that necessary?

Paul: Because the wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness (v. 18).

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Q: But how have people suppressed the truth?

Paul: Since what may be known about God is plain to them...for since the creation of the world Gods invisible qualities...have been clearly seen. As a result, men are without excuse (vv. 19-20).

KEY VERSE From the creation of the world His invisible attribute, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people are without excuse. Romans 1:20 (CSB)

DISCUSSIONRead 1:18-32 together.

1. In verse 17, we just saw that the righteous will live by faith. Now in verse 18, we see Gods wrath is being revealed to the unrighteous. What comes to your mind when you think of:

-Righteous?

-Unrighteous?

-Wrath?

2. In vv. 18-21, Paul says all human beings are without excuse if they dont seek or serve God. Why?

Here is a fascinating quote that clarifies Pauls argument:

Imagine a person who comes in here tonight and argues no air exists but continues to breath air while he argues. Now intellectually, atheists continue to breathe--they continue to use reason and draw scientific conclusions [which assumes an orderly universe], to make moral judgments [which assumes absolute values] - but the atheistic view of things would in theory make such breathing impossible. They are breathing Gods air all the time they are arguing against him. Greg Bahnsen, Does God Exist: A Debate

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3. Verse 21 says people knew God but then rejected him. What is dangerous about knowing God and not acting on that knowledge (vv. 21-23)?

What are some examples of our cultures idols? To find out what are our idols, ask yourself, What is my greatest horror? What thing, if lost, would deprive me of a desire to even live? What do I need in order to accept myself? That is your idol. That is your lord.

4. What action does God perform three times (1:24, 26, 28)? Why is that significant? How is this an expression of his wrath?

5. Read 1:26-32. What are the consequences of false worship (spiritually, mental, moral, and physical)?

6. Review the sins listed at the end of v. 29 and vv. 30-31. Some call these the respectable sins. How are these dierent than sexual sins and murder, etc? Should they be included in this list? Why or why not? What does this list suggest about the nature of sin?

7. Verse 32 says these people not only do these things, but applaud others who practice them. How do you see our culture applauding those who worship idols and/or reject God?

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8. In light of all you studied in this passage, review what have you learned about (a) how Gods wrath works today, and (b) why is Gods wrath fair and just.

9. Apply: How does understanding the wrath of God apply to your life? What can you apply to your life today? What ways have you been warned and/or guided back to following Jesus only?

10. Pray: Take time to thank God for his justice and wrath. No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. 1 Cor. 10:13. Talk to God about what temps you to sin. Ask for forgiveness. Invite his strength to help you overcome future temptation in the same area so that youll be able to stand up under it.

10. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Mens retreat, ministry fair, etc.). Also continue to brainstorm an outreach your group can participate in over the next three months. What progress has been made on your groups future outreach.

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Romans: ConscienceOCTOBER 2, 2011 - WEEK 4! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 2:1-16

OVERVIEW

In 2:17, Paul tells us who he is addressing. He is addressing religious Jews who rest in the law and in their relationship to God. It is not an easy task to find the Jews guilty before God, since disobedience was one sin they did not want to confess. The OT prophets were persecuted for indicting Israel for her sins, and Jesus was crucified for the same reason. His main point that he is building is that everyone is guilty of disobeying God. In this passage, he will see how God is our righteous judge and how our consciences confirm that we are guilty before him. As much as we never want to stand before a judge, if we do, we want the judge to be fair.

KEY VERSEYou, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Romans 2:1 (NIV)

DISCUSSION1. Has anyone ever been in a court and stood before a judge? What was your

experience? If no one has, what do you think you would be feeling/thinking if you had to do so?

2. If you could live your life without personal guilt or judgment, would you choose to live that way? Why or why not?

Read 2:1-16 together.

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3. He says strongly that the religious Jews are guilty of the ugly things addressed in chapter 1. How do religious people (or good people) miss the gospel?

4. What are the consequences of judging and condemning others (vv. 1-3)?

5. Read vv. 4-5. What do these verses tell us about the patience of God?

How does Gods kindness lead us to repentance? Any personal illustrations?

6. Read vv. 6-10. What is the general test by which God will judge people at the end? Does this contradict what Paul said about salvation in vv. 16-17?

7. What are some of the specific tests that indicate that a heart is right with God or not (vv. 7-8)?

What are some of the specific test that indicate a person is not right with God (vv. 7-8)?

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8. How do people without the law of God still have it written upon their conscience (vv. 12-15)? Give examples.

Why is conscience important in this setting?

9. Apply: What practical daily dierence could it make to you that there is a judgment day coming? What influences have helped shape your conscience (for better or worse)? What can you apply to your life today?

10. Pray: Take time to thank God for giving you a conscience. Ask him to guide you to have a healthy conscience that understands how we fit into Gods gospel.

10. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Mens retreat, ministry fair, etc.). Also continue to brainstorm an outreach your group can participate in over the next three months. What progress has been made on your groups future outreach.

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Romans: Heart of the LawOCTOBER 9, 2011 - WEEK 5! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 2:17-29

OVERVIEWRemember that in chapter 2, Paul is addressing the religious Jew, who thought, I am not like the Gentile. I am moral and righteous. I am not under Gods judgment. Paul is telling them that they are wrong. They acted as a judge (2:1-16) and should not be surprised to be judged by God. Now in this passage, they are acting like the teachers of all things righteous and moral, but one cannot be a teacher if they do not understand what they are teaching. Paul wants to make it clear that they have been teaching things they do not understand or grasp. His argument will lead to the heart and show how it first needs to be touch by the Spirit.

KEY VERSEA man is not a Jew if he is only one outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. 29 No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a mans praise is not from men, but from God. Romans 2:28-29 (NIV)

DISCUSSIONRead 2:17-29.

1. Review vv. 17-24. List 5-6 things that the Jews were proud of in regards to their relation to God.

Does this sound like a list of things that please God? Why or why not?

What are some things Christians today are proud of in their relationship to God?

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2. What is Paul trying to show his readers with the list of questions in vv. 21-23?

3. In v. 24, Paul says, Gods name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you. Why?

4. Now, read vv. 25-29. Just as vv. 17-24 were about the Jews moral pride, what do these verses refer to?

Paul was wanting to make the point that mere circumcision does not make someone right with God. Tell us how people today try to make themselves right with God.

5. What is the relationship between circumcision and keeping the law (vv. 25-29)?

What does it mean to have a circumcised heart (v. 29)?

6. How have you sensed the Spirit at work in your heart? (e.g., How has the Spirit been circumcising your heart?)

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7. Apply: What practical daily dierence could it cultivate a heart that is being circumcised daily? Is there anything you are doing for men (or yourself) that you should be doing for God? If so, how can you change that? What else can you apply to your life today?

8. Pray: Take time to thank God for giving you a soft heart. Ask him to guide you to have a heart that is continuously being transformed by the Gospel of God.

9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Mens retreat, mens/womans Bible study, Baptism Oct. 30, etc.). What progress has been made on your groups future outreach. Decide what to do and make a date for your outreach.

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Romans: Faithfulness of GodOCTOBER 16, 2011 - WEEK 6! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 3:1-8

OVERVIEWPaul addresses some of the possible objections to his argument in the last section. In these verses he talks about the faithfulness of God to the Jewish people, in fulfilling his promises, and in dealing with sinners. It might be helpful to imagine Paul arguing with a heckler to understand his argument. Paul saw the character of God being ridiculed, so he rearmed Gods covenant as being faithful to his promises, being just in his judgment, and being glorified by pure hearts.

KEY VERSEWhat advantage, then, is there in being a Jew, or what value is there in circumcision? 2 Much in every way! First of all, they have been entrusted with the very words of God. Romans 3:1-2 (NIV)

DISCUSSIONRead 3:1-8.

1. In what ways had the Jews been entrusted with the very words of God?

2. What are the questions that are asked in these verses (1-8)?

What objections to faith do these questions raise? Have you ever asked similar questions? Explain.

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3. How would you respond if you talked to someone who said, Im glad I fell so deeply into such great sin because it shows how God God is and how much he will forgive (v. 5-8)?

4. Gods glory is only promoted by good and never evil. Can you think of ways that you tried to use evil (i.e., white lies, gossip, etc.) to try to bring glory to God?

5. This section ends with the words, Their condemnation is deserved! What does that mean?

6. The Jews to whom Paul was writing had all sorts of misplaced confidence about their special relationship with God. What or whom have you been tempted to trust besides the grace of Jesus Christ?

7. Apply: Look deep into your heart and see how you ridicule Gods grace and love. What sin do you need to confess and rid yourself of so you dont take advantage of his faithfulness? Ask God, What do people think of God because of me? What do you want people to know about God because of you? What else can you apply to your life today?

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8. Pray: Take time to thank God for his faithfulness, despite our sin. Ask him to guide you to have a heart that is continuously being transformed by the Gospel of God.

9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Mens retreat, mens/womans Bible study, Baptism Oct. 30, etc.). What progress has been made on your groups future outreach. Let Pastor Ethan know your outreach project and date. Start making plans for this outreach project.

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Romans: Sinfulness of ManOCTOBER 23, 2011 - WEEK 7! ! ! ! ROMANS 3:9-31

OVERVIEWIn this section, Paul concludes his 3-chapter-argument that all men and women are morally ruined and hopeless at gaining Gods favor through our own eorts. Verse 22-24 are really the first time Paul gives hope of being right with God through Jesus Christ. These verses will transition us to learning more about how faith makes us righteous before God. Martin Luther calls 3:21-26 the guts of the New Testament.

KEY VERSEFor all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. Romans 3:23-24 (NIV)

DISCUSSION1. Verses 9-18 are various quotes from Psalms summing up Pauls argument of

humanities guilt. Why does Paul quote from Psalms? What do these OT verses tell his Jewish audience?

2. If a friend said to you that all religions have a bit of the truth or that man is basically good how would you respond? What might you say to persuade your friend that the reality is as bad as it is portrayed in Romans 1:18-3:20?

3. Paul opened this letter with almost 3 chapters on the topic of sin. What has this contributed to your view of yourself and your view of God?

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4. Read vs. 21-26. How has the righteousness from God been revealed? How is this dierent than people trying to be righteous before God or having faith in their own works/abilities?

5. According to v. 25, exactly how does God deal with the problem of our sin?

6. What is Paul talking about in verse 27 regarding boasting? Does he mean bragging?

7. Apply: Many people feel guilty because of their sin and others feel guilt-free, as if they had an inadequate sense of their own wrongdoing. How would you describe your own sense of guilt and sin? How can you use this passage about Jesus life and death to comfort someone who feels guilty or ashamed of their sin?

8. Pray: Take time to thank God for the cross. Thank him for Jesus to died on the cross to take our sin and replace it with his perfect life! Pray also for the men who were at the retreat this weekend. Ask God to work deeply in their lives.

9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (mens/womans Bible study, Baptism Oct. 30, etc.). Do you have plans for an outreach in Nov or Dec? Let Pastor Ethan know your outreach project and date. Start making plans for this outreach project.

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Romans: What is Faith?OCTOBER 30, 2011 - WEEK 8! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 4:1-25

OVERVIEWNow that Paul has proved that all men are sinners, he starts to explain how sinners can be saved. The theological term for this salvation is justification by faith. Justification is the instantaneous act of God where he declares the believing sinner righteous in Christ on the basis of the finished work of Christ on the cross. In 3:21-31, Paul explains justification by faith, but now in chapter 4, Paul illustrates justification by faith in the life of Abraham. It is as if his audience says, Can you prove justification by faith from our own history...like in the life of Abraham? Paul takes up the challenge in this chapter and shows why (vs. 1-8), when (vs. 9-17), and how (vs. 18-25) Abraham was saved.

KEY VERSEWhat does the Scripture say? Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness. Romans 4:3 (NIV)

DISCUSSION1. This passage refers to Genesis 15, 17. Take a look back through Genesis 12-17. What

are the highlights of Abrahams life/story?

2. Read vs .1-8. This section talks about how Abraham was justified. How was he justified by faith and not works? What came first? Why is this significant?

-Are works important to the Christian faith or does it not matter what we do or how we act?

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3. Read vs. 9-12. What role does circumcision have in justification? Is this a sign just for the Jews? See Genesis 17:11.

4. Read vs. 13-16. In this section, we see the word law four times and the word faith four times. How does the law oppose faith?

5. Read vs. 17-25. Here the emphasis is on death (used five times in NIV) and faith. What does Paul mean in verse 17 when he says, He believed in God, who gives life to the dead and calls things into existence that do not exist (CSB)? How does God take dead things and make them alive?

6. Apply: -Meditate on 4:7-8 and 25. How do these words bless your life? -Jesus is alive (4:23-25) and we have faith that when we die, we will be raised in righteousness. How does our faith in that truth encourage us to live boldly for Jesus? -Pick a favorite verse/sentence from Romans 3:21-4:25. Meditate on it word by word. Why is this significant to you? -Paul used Abraham as an illustration of justification by faith. Think about your own life. How can you use that as an illustration of justification by faith?

7. Pray: How happy are those whose lawless acts are forgiven and whose sins are covered! How happy the man whom the Lord will never charge with sin! (v. 7-8). Reflect to God how happy you are for all that He has done for your salvation.

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8. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events. What actions need to be delegated to make your small groups outreach happen inNov/Dec?

Start making plans for the Thanksgiving Banquet on 11/20. Each small group will make a meal to be shared by the whole church. Dont forget decorations as their will be a prize for the winning small group.

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Romans: JustificationNOVEMBER 6, 2011 - WEEK 9! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 5:1-21

OVERVIEWPaul continues on his argument that no one can be saved by acting religious and that salvation only comes through by grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Rom 4:13, 16; Eph. 2:8-9). If a reader were to stop at the end of chapter 4, he/she would understand they needed to be saved and they could be saved through faith in Jesus. But a sinner needs to know more about justification. Will it last? What are the benefits? How does it happen?

Here in chapter 5, Paul focuses on the last two words of chapter 4, our justification. Hell talk about what justification brings (vs. 1-11) and why justification comes (vs. 12-21).

KEY VERSEBut God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. Romans 5:8-9 (NKJV)

DISCUSSION1. Chapter 5 starts with four benefits we have because we have been declared

righteous by faith. What are the benefits?

2. In vs. 3-5, answers the question, What good are these benefits if we are still going to suer? Why does Paul say we should rejoice IN our suering, not FOR them? How can we rejoice in suering?

-In your life, have you ever seen the process of suering end with hope? Explain.

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3. Read vs. 5-8. By what two ways can we know that God loves us?

4. Paul will now compare us with Adam (vs. 12-14) and Jesus with Adam (vs. 15-21). Read v. 12. What do we learn about sin and death?

5. It is important to note that we did not sin like Adam, but in Adam. He is our representative and as he sinned, so did we. Read vs. 15-21. Compare Adam and Jesus. Note how we are guilty in Adam, but also how we are righteous in Christ.

-While we dont like that we are guilty because of Adams disobedience, how do you feel about being righteous because of Jesus obedience? In other words, while it is lame that Adam was our representative, how great is it that Jesus is now our representative? Explain how that makes you feel.

6. Apply: This passage taught us that if Christ is our representative, whatever is true of him in Gods eyes is true of us. What dierence does this make in your daily life?

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7. Pray: Thank God for his great love for us (v. 8). Thank Jesus that he was obedient in order to make us righteous (v. 19). Thank the Holy Spirit for pouring Gods love out to our hearts (v. 5).

8. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events. Start making plans for the Thanksgiving Banquet on 11/20. Each small group will make a meal to be shared by the whole church. Dont forget decorations as their will be a prize for the winning small group.

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Romans: Dying To LiveNOVEMBER 13, 2011 - WEEK 10! ! ! ! ROMANS 6:1-23

OVERVIEWPaul is going to address what he said in 5:20 about Grace increasing where sin increases. Some people might think that now that Christians are governed by grace that sin doesnt matter. In the first 14 verses, Paul will focus on the negative: Believers are no longer slaves to sin. In the last 8 verses, he includes the positive side: We are set free from sin and now slaves of righteousness. That may not sound positive, but when we properly understand being a slave to righteousness, we will rejoice in our position in Christ!

KEY VERSEBut 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. 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:22-23 (NIV)

DISCUSSION1. The words death, died and dead are used 13 times in the first 14 verses.

Likewise, the words live, life, and alive are used 6 times. What is Paul trying to get across to his audience? In what ways are these words a normal part of life for the Christian?

2. What does it mean in v. 2 that we died to sin?

3. What are the signs that a person is no longer under the mastery (v. 14) or reign (v. 12) of sin ?

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4. Sometimes we focus so much on what we should not do (e.g., sin). But we forget why we shouldnt sin. Why are we able to resist sins power?

5. In verses 15-23, Paul uses the words enslaved and slaves 8 times. We have moved from slaves of sin to slaves of God (v. 22). How do you feel about being a slave? Do you feel restricted or angry? Explain how you feel.

6. How do you practically live as a slave to righteousness and not a slave of sin (vs. 18-23)?

7. Apply: (a) In v. 13, Paul says to oer yourselves to God as weapons of righteousness (Holman Translation). What specific steps can you take to oer your body to God for his use?

(b) Think of one key reason from the passage not to keep sinning and explain to the group how this might look in practice.

8. Pray: Chapter 6 ends with For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Spend time in silence before God thanking him for his gift to you.

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9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events. Start making plans for the Thanksgiving Banquet on 11/20. Each small group will make a meal to be shared by the whole church. Dont forget decorations as their will be a prize for the winning small group.

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Romans: Freedom In ChristJANUARY 8 - WEEK 11! ! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 7:1-25

OVERVIEWAs Paul suggests in 6:14, the law of Moses belongs to the old age. In order to belong to the new age, therefore, believers must be released from the domination of the Mosaic law (law, commandment, or written code are used 29 times in chapter 7). Paul uses the illustration of marriage to help show how one is released from the Law, but now a slave to Gods love. Being freed from the law and now living as a slave to God is easier said than done as we see a great struggle taking place within the wretched man who cries out for someone to deliver him from this body of death!

KEY VERSEWhat a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25 Thanks be to Godthrough Jesus Christ our Lord! Romans 7:24-25a (NIV)

DISCUSSION1. Paul is continuing his argument from chapter 6 that we are either slaves to sin or

slaves to God. No one is free. In 7:1-6, he says we are either married to the law or married to Christ, but no one is free. What does this illustration of marriage teach us about the law?

2. While we are released from the law, that doesnt mean the law is bad. What would the world be like without any laws?

The law is good because it tells us what is sin. Without the law, sin would destroy everyone! Share what is good about the law. What are the limitations of the law?

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3. Read verses 14-25. What makes this man wretched?

What kind of examples do/did you struggle with in your own life that make you feel the same way?

4. Paul says in verse 18, I have the desire to what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. What does this imply about the a persons relationship with God and the Christian life?

5. It sounds like there are two forces at work in the Christians heart. Describe these two forces (v. 22-23).

6. Instead of being depressed or defeated, Paul is thankful (v. 25). Why do you think Paul is thankful?

7. Apply: There are three approaches to Gods law:

1) Legalism (the only option is to obey it completely)

2) Antinomianism (just ignore Gods law and dont worry about it)

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3) Freedom (dont count on the law to make you right with God, but love Gods law and enjoy following it the best you can...and keep trying to love God more and more.

What best describes your relationship with God right now? Have you ever tried a dierent approach in your past? What made you change?

(b) Suppose someone said to you, I am such a wretched person! How will I ever be free from this body of sin? How would you respond to that person?

8. Pray: Use vs. 4-6 to guide you in prayer. Focus on living the new life in the Spirit. Take time to privately (or publicly, if appropriate) confess sins and ask God to bring you victory in your Christian life.

9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events.

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Romans: Spiritual VictoryJANUARY 15 - WEEK 12! ! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 8:1-39

OVERVIEWThis is one of the greatest chapters in the Bible. It starts with no condemnation and ends with no separation. Chapter 7 showed us that we are still waging a battle over sin, but does not tell us how to live in a way that glorifies God. In this chapter, we will see how we live according to the Spirit (8:4) and unless we do, we will find ourselves continuing to do what we hate.

KEY VERSETherefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus...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 8:1, 38-39 (NIV)

DISCUSSION

1. Read and meditate on 8:1. What does the phrase, no condemnation mean? Does no condemnation refer only to our past or our present and future?

! Read 5:1. How are these verses similar?

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2. Read 8:1-4. Along with no condemnation, what else happened to those who are in Christ Jesus?

3. In chapter 7, Paul used the word Law and its synonyms 31, but the Spirit only once (v. 6). Now in chapter 8, he uses the word Spirit 21 times, making the Spirit an important person in this chapter. We need to remember that the Holy Spirit is a person of the Trinity and fully God. Remembering the Holy Spirit is a person, what does it mean to walk or live in the Spirit?

4. From verses 5-17, describe the experience of life:

according to the flesh.

according to the Spirit

5.! Some Christians may say you need to experience a filling of the Holy Spirit in order to ! please ! God and live a victorious Christian life. How could you use this passage to respond?

6. Read vs. 18-30. Suffering is part of being a Christian, yet, we see that disease and death are not intended for this world (see Rev. 21:1-4). Just as the earth will be restored (vs. 23-25),

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so will Christians. How does v. 28 comfort Christians who are suffering? What reason does he give (vs. 29-30)?

7. Using verses 31-39, make a list of things that might cause us to imagine that God is against us.

! What items on the list do you find particularly relevant? striking? confusing? Why?

8. Read vs. 37-39. How does this passage help prepare you for suffering? How does it help you now?

9. Apply:

What are some ways you can show appreciation for being adopted into Gods family?

We see how important the Holy Spirit is to discipleship. How can you give appropriate attention to his presence in your life each day?

What specific things in your life is God currently working for good?

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10. Pray: Focus on the work of the Holy Spirit and pray for a growing awareness of his work in your life this week. Thank God that we are not condemned and nothing can separate us from his love. Thank Jesus for becoming our punishment (which we dont have to bear) and our perfection (which we couldnt perform).

11. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events.

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Romans: Gods Sovereign ElectionJANUARY 22 - WEEK 13! ! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 9:1-39

OVERVIEWThis is a power-packed chapter of tough theology that raises questions like, what about those who have never heard about Jesus? What about good people who happen to believe in some other religion (salvation by faith or works)? Can one lose their salvation? Paul seems to be answering a questions from Gentile Christians, If Jesus is the messiah, why do so many Jews reject him? Paul is upset that so many Jews do reject Jesus as the Messiah...probably because he used to be one of them.

KEY VERSEIt [election] does not, therefore, depend on mans desire or eort, but on Gods mercy. Romans 9:16 (NIV)

DISCUSSION

1. Do you think a genuine Christian can stop being a Christian? Why or why not?

2. Read 9:1-5. Why is Paul upset about his fellow Jews who reject Jesus? What privileges did they have?

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3. Read 9:6-13. Why might someone suggest God had failed?

4. In these verses, does being a descendant of Abraham guarantee a spot in Gods family? Why or why not?

5. Some would say God is unjust by showing mercy to some bad people and ignoring some good people. How do vs. 14-21 answer this question?

6. What does Paul conclude in vs. 30-33? What relationships do you see between faith, works, Jews, and Gentiles?

7. Apply: This chapter speaks of Gods mercy. How and when have you seen Gods mercy at work?

There are many people who stumble over Jesus rather than trusting him. Pick someone you know who has done that and try to view Christianity from that persons point of view. How do you think he/she sees the Christian faith? How can you help that person trust in Jesus?

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8. Pray: Spend time praying for people you know who have not trusted Jesus Christ. Ask God to extend mercy on those people and ask him to help you find ways to minister to them and show them the love of Jesus.

9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events.

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Romans: Mans ResponsibilityJANUARY 29 - WEEK 14! ! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 10:1-21

OVERVIEWThis chapter can be summed up by the phrase, familiarity breeds contempt. Israel was so blessed to have such a long, rich history of Gods favor upon them, yet during their history they became hardened and obstinate to Gods love. In this chapter, Paul tells the Israelites that they have no excuse. They heard and understood the Good News of Jesus, but still chose to reject it. In the doom of this chapter, we see some who were pleased to hear and receive the gospel of Jesus Christ.

KEY VERSEThat if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. Romans 10:9-10 (NIV)

DISCUSSION1. Read vs. 1-4. Describe Pauls attitude toward the Jews. Is passion enough to save

someone?

2. Read vs. 5-8. Paul refers to Moses and righteousness found in following the Law. However, righteousness is now found in faith. Describe righteousness based on faith works.

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3. Verses 9-13 contain a classic creed of Christian faith. Describe what makes a person a Christian. Can one become a Christian without sincere confession or belief? Is anyone excluded from becoming a Christian?

4. So far, the following is needed for salvation: (1) Jesus, (2) the gospel (e.g., word of faith), (3) trust in Jesus (e.g., combining faith and confession). What is missing? Read vs. 14-17. Who does this refer to?

5. There are four questions asked in vs. 14-15. The explanation is found in vs. 16-17. What is required for receiving the gospel? Can someone become a Christian if they hear and even understand the gospel (see vs. 18-20)?

6. Gods plan all along was to bring the Gentiles into a saving relationship with him. Instead of embracing this news, the Jews became jealous (v. 19, 11:11). Read v. 21. How would you express Gods heart for his chosen people?

7. Apply: Verse 9 says that Christians confess Jesus is Lord. How have you confessed that Jesus is your Lord this week?

How can you be beautiful feet and share good news to those who do not know Jesus?

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8. Pray: If God can grieve over a Jewish unbeliever, so can we. Do you know a Jewish unbeliever? If so pray for that person now. If not, pray for someone you know from the media or Israel in general.

9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events.

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Transformed: The Future of IsraelFEBRUARY 12 - WEEK 16! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 11:1-36

OVERVIEWThis is a chapter concludes a three-chapter interlude to talk about Gods sovereignty in salvation. The original question (9:6) was, Did Gods plan fail? If God loved Israel, then why has he rejected them and now loving the Gentiles? Paul is arguing that God has always loved Israel and still love them. However, he also always loved the Gentiles and is now bringing them into his family/kingdom. God has not given up on Israel and still has great plans for them. Chapter 11 describes how God will bless all of Israel!

KEY VERSEThat I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, 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 so 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. Romans 11:9-25-27 (NIV)DISCUSSION1. The overarching theme of chapters 9-11 is that God is sovereign. He is sovereign in

salvation and everything else he does. While some Christians take comfort in Gods sovereignty, others struggle with it. What is your attitude towards Gods sovereignty?

2. There are two main questions in this chapter. The first question is, Has God rejected Israel?. Read vs. 1-5. How would you answer this question?

What was Elijahs mistaken belief? What was Gods response then and now?

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3. Read vs. 6-10. Who and what do these verses give credit for the believing remnant of Israel? Does a hardened heart equal total rejection?

4. Read vs. 11-16. Paul asks another question in v. 11. Has Israel fallen flat or just stumbling? The answer is that they are stumbling. What has been the result of Israels stumbling?

5. Read vs. 17-24. How does the olive tree metaphor warn the Gentiles? How does v. 20 square with 8:35-39 (No separation)?

6. What is the mystery Paul refers to in v. 25? What is the future for Israel?

Read vs. 33-36. What does the doctrine of election inspire Paul to do?

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7. Apply: verse 20 urges Gentiles to be afraid and not arrogant. What are some ways you have become too comfortable with your relationship with God and have just coasted. How can you become humble and continue to become more like Jesus Christ?

In verses 11-21, there is a great image of an olive tree that Gentiles have been grafted into. What strengths can you draw from this root system of the ancient Hebrew faith? How?

8. Pray: Use the doxology in vs. 33-36 to guide you in prayer.

9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Essentials, Feb. 25; Childs 5 Languages of Love Seminar by Gary Chapman, March 8 ).

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Transformed: Commitment to the GospelFEBRUARY 19/26 - WEEK 16 & 17! ! ! ! ROMANS 12:1-2

OVERVIEWThese two verses are some of the most beloved in the Bible. They teach us how to relate to God by connecting chapters 1-11 to the rest of this book. The focus turns from doctrine to behavior. Now that we know salvation is by grace through faith, we now learn how we are to give our whole body to loving and serving God.

KEY VERSETherefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of Gods mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacriFices, holy and pleasing to Godthis is your spiritual act of worship. Romans 12:1 (NIV)

DISCUSSION1. Read verses 1-2. What two things does Paul urge us to do? What do they mean

practically?

2. What does Paul show as the only motivation for living the Christian life (v. 1)?

How does gratitude for Gods grace motivate you?

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3. How does Paul explain the right way to overcome spiritual stagnation and disobedience? i.e., how can we oer our hearts wholly to God?

4. What is the dierence between the words conform and transform?

5. Notice that these verses speak of both the body and mind. Why are both of these important to God? Do you neglect or overemphasis one over the other? Why?6. Apply: What are some practical ways you can oer your mind to God as a living sacrifice? What are some ways you can use your body?

6. Pray: No matter how you perceive yourself, if you are a Christian, you are holy and without blemish. This is true only because of Gods grace in your life. Thank him for making you holy and ask him to help you see yourself as without blemish.

Ask him to help you understand what it means to be a living sacrifice where you, life, work, and have fun.

9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Essentials, Feb. 25; Childs 5 Languages of Love Seminar by Gary Chapman, March 8 ).

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Transformed: Right ThinkingMARCH 4! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 12:3-21

OVERVIEWWe continue to see the doctrine of the first 11 chapters work itself out in chapter 12. In verses 3-21, we will see what it looks like for a Christian to be transformed by the renewing of his/her mind. Romans 12:1-2 showed how we are to relate to God. Now in vs. 3-4, we see how we are to relate to ourselves and in 5-21, we see how we are to relate to others in the church. Life is to be lived in community and the mark of this community is love! One can be a Christian without displaying love in his/her life, but the point of being a Christian is for others to know about Gods love by the way you have love for each other (John 13:33-35).

KEY VERSELove must be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good. Romans 12:9 (HCSB)

DISCUSSION1. Review verses 1-2. Summarize how we are to relate to God. What is the result?

2. Now read verses 3-4. What do these verses tell us about how we are to relate to ourselves? In other words, what two mistakes should Christians avoid when thinking of themselves?

3. Now that we know how to relate to ourselves, what does vs. 4-8 tell us how we should relate to other Christians? How do you do at loving those in the body of Christ?

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4. Describe the dierent gifts. Do any describe you? What is the overall attitude of the bodys motivation for using their gifts?

5. Verses 9-16 continue to describe the attitude between Christians. What are the dierent ways we can show love to other Christians? What should these things show the unbelieving world?

6. Read v. 9. How can we love unlovely persons who we do not like and yet still be sincere?

7. Verses 17-21 speak of our attitudes for our enemies. What is the attitude we need to have to those who are hostile to us? Why? What is our motivation and reason? Why is this so hard?

8. Apply: These lists (of treating Christians and enemies) are hard lists to live up to. In what areas do you need God to change your heart? How are you using your Spiritual Gifts in the body of Christ? Do you need to better use your gifts to build up the body of Christ?

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9. Pray: Ask God to show you your gifts. Take time to use your renewed mind to think and consider how God wants you to put these gifts to use. Also, ask God to help you love Christians and enemies in a way that glorifies Christ. If necessary, spend time in confession.

10. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Childs 5 Languages of Love Seminar by Gary Chapman, March 8; Annual Congregational Meeting, March 25; Palm Sunday Picnic, April 1).

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Transformed: Gospel and CivicsMARCH 11! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 13:3-14

OVERVIEWWhen you think of the government or politics, what sort of feelings do you have? In Pauls day, there was a distain for the Roman government. The Romans occupied Israel, as well as much of the known world. The Romans were the ones who executed Jesus Christ, so one might expect Paul to show little respect for the ruling authorities. Such was not the case. Instead of allowing open rebellion against the rulers (Jewish and gentile), he speaks clearly of the need to respect the rulers, give them what you owe them, and do so with charity. In this passage he is showing how individual Christians are to relate to the government and their personal citizenship.

KEY VERSEEveryone must submit himself 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 (NIV)DISCUSSION1. What was the attitude toward government in the home where you grew up?

2. Read Romans 13:1-7. Verse 1 says that we are to submit to the governing authorities. Look for in vs. 1-7 for reasons that show this is right.

How absolute is the states power over Christians? Does other scripture shed light on these verses?

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3. What is the job description of the state? What is the job description of the Christian citizen?

What do your kids or others learn from you about how we respect and honor the president and other government authorities?

4. Read vs. 8-10. How do they relate to the previous verses?

5. Read vs. 11-14. How does this passage relate to chapters 12-13?

What kinds of things are legal in our society, but are not legal for citizens of heaven? What things are neither legal or illegal, but that we should be careful of?

6. Apply: How can you be a better citizen of USA? What can you do to make your city, county, state, and nation a better place for all? What do you do if you disagree with your civic leaders, in a way that honors God? What do you need to do to aline yourself more with being a citizen of heaven, rather than a citizen of USA?

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7. Pray: Think about those in leadership in our country. Who/what needs prayer? Take time to pray for the president, congressmen, governors, mayors, the military, etc.

8. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Annual Congregational Meeting, March 25; Palm Sunday Picnic, April 1, Baby Dedication, April 8).

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Transformed: Unity and DiversityMARCH 18! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 14:1-23

OVERVIEWIn keeping with the theme of how a Christian is to relate to others, chapter 14 speaks of relating to Christians who are weaker in their faith than you. As mature Christians, we often expect everyone to be just like us, yet Christians come from all sorts of backgrounds. This passage goes deeper into the truths of Romans 12:4-8. All Christians are to be unified, yet unique. These words are to the mature Christians to withhold judgment or criticism when a younger Christian acts in a way that is dierent. The main message is that we will each give an account to God of our lives, not our brothers or sisters lives.

KEY VERSESo then, we must pursue what promotes peace and what builds up one another. Romans 14:19 (HCSB)

DISCUSSION1. Read vs. 1-3. What is the basic principle found in this passage?

2. Who are the stronger Christians? What are they doing (or not doing)? Remember, this is a fellowship of Jews and gentiles. What do you know about the food Jews ate, the days they worshiped, and the holidays they celebrated? How is this dierent from the gentiles?

Who are the weak Christians?

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What do we learn about the strong and the weak?

3. Read vs. 13-18. What are the charges Paul makes to the strong?

What are the charges Paul makes to the weak?

4. Read vs. 19-23. What positive advise does Paul give to the strong and weak?

5. Apply: Pick one or two issues that divide Christians today. How would Pauls principles apply to it? (e.g., drinking alcohol, mode of baptism, use of tongues & healing, worship styles, etc.)

What are some things that are essential/nonessential that you disagree with family/friends? Why? What/where/how does Scripture address each thing?

What are some things that you are being to restrictive or loose with? How can you begin to grant other Christians freedom in issues that God does not prohibit?

6. Prayer: Pray for an enlightened heart and for wisdom. It is often hard to discern what is a core essential for living the Christian faith and what is just a preference. Pray that the church strives for unity and diversity.

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7. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Annual Congregational Meeting, March 25; Palm Sunday Picnic, April 1; Easter & Baby Dedication, April 8).

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Transformed: Unity. Liberty. Charity.MARCH 25! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ROMANS 15 & 16

OVERVIEWWe now come to the end of this marvelous book. As one would expect, he ends this book on a very personal note. In chapter 15, he emphasizes the building blocks of healthy Christian relationships: unity, liberty, and charity. Unity says that we choose to stay together as one even though we are very dierent. Liberty says that we respect each other as individuals, and because of that respect, we allow each other certain freedoms. Charity says that we give and receive love even when it is not deserved. Rupert Meldenius captures the heart of this passage when he says, In essentials unity; In nonessentials liberty; In all things charity. At the end of the book, Paul explains his plans to visit the church in Rome (which includes theology on Gods providence) and expresses his enjoyment and appreciation of his friends.

KEY VERSENow may the God of hope Fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overFlow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (HCSB)DISCUSSION1. Review what Paul wrote in chapter 14 about the strong and the weak. Read 15:1-3.

How does Paul conclude his teachings in chapter 14? What ethical principle is taught here?

How does this principle apply to the following situations: Finances? Church leadership? Relationships?

2. Read 15:5-7. What do these verses teach about the unity of Christians? How do they explain what a healthy church looks like?

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3. Focus on 15:13. How is this verse a great prayer to summarize all he has taught on unity, strong/weak believers, etc? What part of this prayer do you desire for yourself/the church?

4. Read 15:14-22. According to vs. 14-16, why did Paul write the letter to the Romans?

5. Read 15:30-32. What are Pauls three prayer requests? Were they answered? What does this tell you about prayer?

6. Read 16:1-16. What do you learn about the life of the early church from this list of greetings?

6. Read 16:17-18. What last minute advise does Paul have for the Roman church? Why does he feel a need to say this just before he ends the letter?

7. Apply: With whom do you most need to apply the principles of unity, liberty, and charity? What will you do to strengthen that relationship?

How do you pray? Do pray bold prayers that God may or may not answer? How can you be more bold in your prayers while receiving the answers (whatever they may be) with joy?

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Think of dozen or so friends, church members, and co-workers. Follow Pauls example and write a brief summary of what you appreciate about them. Tell them of your appreciation in person or a written note.

8. Pray: In 15:30, Paul asks his friends to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. Pray for someone involved in the work of Christ (pastor, missionary, lay-leaders, and others who are actively ministering to someone). As you pray, picture that persons needs, emotions, spiritual struggles. Remember that through your prayer, you are actively participating in that work!

Read as a prayer Pauls benediction in 16:25-27. Reflect on Gods glory as it is revealed in creation, the church, and your life.

9. Announce: Refer to the weekly announcements and announce relevant upcoming events (Annual Congregational Meeting, March 25; Palm Sunday Picnic, April 1; Easter & Baby Dedication, April 8).

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