Wednesday Night Bible Study 16:17-27
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Final Exhortations
Read: Romans 16:17-27
Scripture and Key References:
“Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ…”
~ Romans 16:25a
Matthew 10:16-17 Luke 10:17-19 Ephesians 3:20 Hebrews 5:14 Isaiah 2:2; Rev. 5:9 1 Peter 4:10-11
Introduction:
With his inspired doctrinal explanation of the Gospel complete, his exhortations to the church written down, and his greetings to the fellow believers in Rome behind him, you would think that Paul is ready to close this magnificent letter. But there are a few final remarks Paul wishes to make before signing off. They fall under the heading of “exhortation” and “praise”. In this last section of the letter, Paul ends with a pointed exhortation about false teachers and remaining faithful to the truth. After the exhortation he concludes with great encouragement in the form of praise. Praise to the only wise God through Jesus Christ!
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. In verse 17 Paul gives a warning to the church at Rome. What warning is Paul giving to the church? How can this danger be recognized? How can this danger be stopped?
2. Are you able to discern those who form factions in the church or who add to the teaching of Scripture? Read Hebrews 5:14. How can you increase your wisdom about good and become simple toward evil?
3. In verses 21-24 we are introduced to those who are with Paul. What do we learn about the church folks with Paul? Does your church reflect this portrait?
4. Spend time meditating on verses 25-27 and let them move you praise. What pieces of this praise remind you of themes in the book of Romans? As you think over the book of Romans, which chapters or themes have meant the most to you?
5. Here at the end, Paul’s praise is Gospel focused. What do these final verses emphasize about the Gospel of Jesus Christ? What does the Gospel produce in the hearts and minds of God’s people?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 16:1-16
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Joyous Greetings
Read: Romans 16:1-16
Scripture and Key References:
“Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.”
~ Romans 16:16
2 Thessalonians 1:3 1 John 3:14-16 Ephesians 4:2 1 Peter 1:22 Galatians 4:15 1 Peter 3:8; 5:14
Introduction:
Returning to our studies in Romans, we come to the final chapter! Much of this chapter is composed of greetings to people Paul knows or has heard about. Paul’s words here reveal much about himself. While he was undoubtedly a powerful intellect, he was no ivory tower theolog. He was a relational man with a vast circle of friends and his networks spread throughout the Roman world. It is obvious he loves Christ’s people and that his ministry is warm and personal. And not only Paul, but those that Paul mentions here also ministered in a warm, personal, and relational ways. Look for these relational connections as you study verses 1-16. Pray the LORD grant great warmth in His body.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Take a moment and describe the “ideal” church to those in your group. What areas of church life mean the most to you? How do your ideals line up with what we see in Romans 16?
2. Look over the list of names in verses 1-16. What can we learn and apply from the composition of the Roman church? Which description of ordinary church members particularly stand out to you?
3. What roles do Phoebe (vs. 1) and Junia (vs. 7) play in the early church? Do translations differ? How much can we say about the role of these women in the church of Rome?
4. How are your relational ties to the believers around you? Are you really involved in their lives? If not, how will you begin to change this area of discipleship?
5. As Sunday approaches do you look forward to seeing your brothers and sisters in Christ? When you arrive at church, do you greet your fellow believers (and visitors) sincerely and warmly? If not, how will you begin to change this week?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 15:22-33
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
A New Stage of Ministry
Read: Romans 15:22-33
Scripture and Key References:
“But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you, I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while.”
~ Romans 15:23-24
1 Thessalonians 5:2 Proverbs 14:21 Acts 12:5 1 Timothy 5:17-18 James 2:1-4 James 5:1
Introduction:
While Paul derived great satisfaction out of being used by Christ as the apostle to the Gentiles, his current calling did leave him with one “disappointment”. He longed to visit Rome. Paul was a pioneering missionary and the Gospel had already penetrated Rome. Paul understood that his calling was what “hindered” him from crossing the Adriatic Sea for the visit. But today we are also told about change in Paul’s situation and a new longing for the Apostle. Now his plans are to visit Rome. Pay close attention as we discover why!
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Read verse 22 and then look back over the previous verses. What had hindered Paul from going to Rome? How had his situation changed?
2. The church at Rome was probably excited about the upcoming apostolic visit, but Paul hopes to be ministered to by the Romans! How so? What were Paul’s hopes in visiting the Roman church (vs. 24)?
3. What are some ways that congregations can “refresh” and minister to their missionaries? How you can you minister to missionaries as an individual?
4. In verse 25 Paul adds a detour in his plans for traveling to Rome. What is this detour? Why is Paul making the detour? Does your church make it a practice to minister to the poor within the church?
5. Paul has a plan for his ministry and for reaching the lost for Christ. Do you have a plan for reaching others for Christ? What simple steps will you take to evangelize your neighbors for Jesus?
6. Whose struggle could you enter into by praying for them now, and then continuing to do so daily? What missionaries are you praying for weekly? Monthly?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 15:14-21
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Paul’s Ministry Goal and Glory
Read: Romans 15:14-21
Scripture and Key References:
“For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience—by word and deed…”
~ Romans 15:18
Psalm 77:6 2 Peter 1:12, 15; 3:1 Galatians 6:14 Eccl. 1:11 2 Cor. 10:17; 11:30 1 Thess. 2:20; 2 Thess. 1:4
Introduction:
WE have arrived at the beginning of the endo f the book of Romans. With verse 13, Paul concluded his last major teaching section. In a way, with verse 14, Paul picks up where he left off in Romans 1:1-17. What we find now is a series of personal notes and short encouragements for all in the church at Rome. Though this section may be considered less theological in nature, it is none the less filled with implications from the Gospel Paul preaches. Today we see how the great Gospel of the righteousness of God in Christ shapes Paul ministry and life.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Up to this point in the letter to the Romans – how would you describe the apostle Paul? Look at verses 15 and 16. What do these verses tells us about Paul? What do they tell us about the God who called Paul?
2. Verse 17 uses the word “proud” or “glory” depending on your translation. What did “Paul” glory in as an apostle? What do you “glory” in as a disciple of Christ? Are you proud of Christ’s accomplishments through you? What needs to change in your life because of this question?
3. Verses 18 and 19 tell us about Paul’s missionary credentials and practice? What do should we learn from these verses about the shape of our own evangelism and witness?
4. How long do people have to know you before they hear something of Jesus Christ? How can we make sharing the Gospel a daily part of us?
5. What are some ways you can increase your practice and passion for sharing the Good News? What steps will you take today/tomorrow to do so?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 14:13-23
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Liberty and Love
Read: Romans 14:13-23
Scripture and Key References:
“Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats.”
~ Romans 14:20
Leviticus 19:14 Galatians 5:13-15 1 Cor. 8-10 Ezekiel 3:20 1 Thessalonians 2:4 Ephesians 4:12-16
Introduction:
When we started Romans 14 we observed that some Christians in Rome were breaking fellowship and passing judgement about another’s salvation based on those things that are less clear in Scripture. The word “therefore” at the beginning of today’s opening verse (vs. 13) signals that Paul has arrived at a concluding point. Here is at least his partial summary, …”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.” Paul’s argument up to this point has been help those in Rome - stop passing judgment on brothers and sisters about things which God’s will is unclear. And today in our text He will argue that the best way to “stop judging” is to actively remove “stumbling blocks.” As we will see this is all about using our “liberty” for the sake of “love.”
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. As we pick up in verse 13, to whom is Paul talking? Does He narrow His focus at all in verses 14 and 15? To whom is he speaking?
2. Do you consider yourself a “stronger” believer over a “disputable matter”? What will be your priority: living out your liberty or giving it up to serve another believer?
3. In verse 15 he mentions “acting in love”. What does this assume believers should be doing? How will you come to understand where others are in their understanding of the faith?
4. How should we distinguish between a “stumbling block” and a petty grievance? What do we find in the text to help us?
5. What key principle does Paul give us in verse 19? What thoughts should guide us as we seek to remove “stumbling blocks”.
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 14:1-12
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Liberty and Love
Read: Romans 14:13-23
Scripture and Key References:
“Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats.”
~ Romans 14:20
Leviticus 19:14 Galatians 5:13-15 1 Cor. 8-10 Ezekiel 3:20 1 Thessalonians 2:4 Ephesians 4:12-16
Introduction:
When we started Romans 14 we observed that some Christians in Rome were breaking fellowship and passing judgement about another’s salvation based on those things that are less clear in Scripture. The word “therefore” at the beginning of today’s opening verse (vs. 13) signals that Paul has arrived at a concluding point. Here is at least his partial summary, …”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.” Paul’s argument up to this point has been help those in Rome - stop passing judgment on brothers and sisters about things which God’s will is unclear. And today in our text He will argue that the best way to “stop judging” is to actively remove “stumbling blocks.” As we will see this is all about using our “liberty” for the sake of “love.”
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. As we pick up in verse 13, to whom is Paul talking? Does He narrow His focus at all in verses 14 and 15? To whom is he speaking?
2. Do you consider yourself a “stronger” believer over a “disputable matter”? What will be your priority: living out your liberty or giving it up to serve another believer?
3. In verse 15 he mentions “acting in love”. What does this assume believers should be doing? How will you come to understand where others are in their understanding of the faith?
4. How should we distinguish between a “stumbling block” and a petty grievance? What do we find in the text to help us?
5. What key principle does Paul give us in verse 19? What thoughts should guide us as we seek to remove “stumbling blocks”.
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 13:8-13
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Living as a Christian in Society
Read: Romans 13:8-14
Scripture and Key References:
“But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.”
~ Romans 13:14
Leviticus 19:18 1 Corinthians 6:7-8 Matthew 5:38-42, 44 Matthew 5:38-42, 44 Ephesians 5:7-16 Colossians 4:5
Introduction:
In Romans 13:1-7, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Paul taught us that Christians have a duty to support authorities whether in the family or society. He also showed that believers are to give respect and honor to whomever it is due. These obligations are in a sense a “debt” that Christians simply mut pay. And according to Romans 13:8-14 our obligations to society are a part of a greater debt that the Gospel places upon Christians – the “debt” of love.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. What is Paul’s meaning when he writes, “Owe no one anything except to love one another?” Is he saying we should have no other debt period? And who are we to love? Look in the surrounding context for answers.
2. The “debt” to love “one another” is a continuing debt we can never repay. Have you neglected this obligation in any relationships, especially in the church? Have you assumed that your debt was fulfilled?
3. Take some time to think about how you might be spiritually “lulled to sleep” in the world. Why should the 2nd coming of Christ give us urgency in our efforts to pursue Christ and reach others with the Gospel?
4. Saint Augustine said that Romans 13:13-14 were the verses that God used to convert Him to Christianity. Take 5 minutes and research Augustine of Hippo on the internet. Why do you think God used this verses in His life?
5. What would change in your life today if you imagined that Jesus was standing in front of you, and you “clothed” yourself with Christ?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 13:1-7
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Authorities Under God
Read: Romans 13:1-7
Scripture and Key References:
“Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.” ~ Romans 13:7
Exodus 22:28 Ezra 6:10; Daniel 4:34-37 Acts 23:1; 24:16 Titus 3:1 2 Samuel 23:2-4 Matt. 17:24-27; Matt. 22:15-22
Introduction:
Paul has been systematically unfolding the Gospel. In the first 11 chapters it was the Gospel proper. In chapter 12 he turned his attention to how the Gospel transforms our relationships both inside and outside the church. And Paul knows the Gospel effects not only our relationships with individuals but also our relationships with institutions, especially governing authorities. How does the Gospel transform our attitudes and actions toward the State and other institutions of governance? It is to this question Paul addresses himself in Romans 13:1-7. Although Paul does not give us a detailed discussion of church – state relations, he does give instructions to Christians on Gospel driven citizenship. These principles are foundational to being “salt & light” in the world.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. What is your attitude toward the various governments under which you live? Do you find yourself resenting government-imposed obligations? Prayerfully ask how God is calling you to change.
2. Quickly jot down on a piece of paper the authorities that God has placed in your life. Do you tend to have too high a view, or too low a view, of the authorities God has established over you? Spend time praying for each one asking God to give you a proper view of them all.
3. How does Paul’s teaching on government help you think about it’s main purpose? In what ways does this help you evaluate your own national, state, and local government?
4. Are there any ways in which you are being called to disobey an authority in order to obey God? What Scripture have you consulted for guidance?
5. Do you pay taxes with a thankful heart? Based on Romans 13, why should we consider “paying taxes” a exercise of devotion to God?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 12:3-8
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Living in the Body of Christ
Read: Romans 12:3-8
Scripture and Key References:
“For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” ~ Romans 12:4-5
Luke 14:7-14 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 Ephesians 4:7 Colossians 1:18, 24; 2:19 1 Peter 4:11
Introduction:
In Romans 12:1-2 Paul shows that the Gospel demands our all. We are to be living sacrifices seeking His will above all else. Now as we come to Romans 12:3, Paul turns his attention to instructing us on how to live in the community the Gospel produces. In these verses we are called to think soberly about ourselves and to realize we are in relation to other believers in the body of Christ. Fundamentally each of us needs other believers, and they need each of us.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Most people are, at times, tempted to think more highly of themselves than they should. They also, at times, have the opposite problem – an opinion of themselves that is too low. What is your self-image? How have these verses affected your self-image?
2. What standard can we use to gauge our significance in the church?
3. Do you know Christians who have abandoned the church in favor of worshiping on their own? Why do you think people today downplay commitment to a local church?
4. Do you know your Spiritual gift(s)? How can you go about discovering your Spiritual gift(s)?
5. Share with a Christian friend which spiritual gifts you think you have. Share ideas about how you could better develop your gift in your local church. How will you go about exercising your gift in the local church?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 12_1_2
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Living Sacrifices
Read: Romans 12:1-2
Scripture and Key References:
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.
~ Romans 12::1
Ephesians 2:4-10 Philippians 4:18 1 Corinthians 2:16 Leviticus 1:1-17 1 Corinthians 3:19 Psalm 1:1-6
Introduction:
In chapter 12 we come to the divide that characterizes so many of Paul’s letters. Often, he will deal with doctrinal matters in the first section of a letter and then practical concerns in the second. But actually, it may be better to say that chapter 12 marks Paul’s turn to applying the Gospel to all of life. Paul is not leaving the truths of chapters 1-11. He is building upon them. For the first 11 chapters Romans presented the truth of the Gospel. In chapter 12 Paul focuses our attention to the Gospel’s application in all spheres of life.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Are you aware of the “mercies of God” to you, both His great act of redemption and the particular smaller mercies in your life? Do you regularly take time to cultivate gratitude for these mercies?
2. What are some of the Scriptural motivations for obedience to God? Do you ever obey out of fear? What would change if you obeyed God out of gratitude for His mercy?
3. Do you resist sin out of gratitude for God’s covenant mercies? What would change if you resisted sin out of gratitude for God’s mercy?
4. In what ways does this world seek to fit you into its mold? How well do you fit? In what areas do need think and act differently than the world?
5. Identify a way in which you regularly disobey God. How will you apply these two verses as a means of overcoming this sin in your life?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 11:11-24
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
God’s Continuing Faithfulness to Israel
Read: Romons 11:11-24
Scripture and Key References:
“And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again.” ~ Romans 11:23
Acts 13:42-48 Numbers 28:26-31 Numbers 15:30-31 Isaiah 8:20 Galatians 3:13-14 Psalm 68:20; Rev. 1:18
Introduction:
Here in Romans 11 Paul is wrestling with the question of vs. 1, “has God rejected His people?” So far in verses 1-10, Paul has demonstrated that the Israel’s rejection was not total. Just as in Elijah’s day, so also in Paul’s, there was a remnant chosen by grace. Now in verses 11-24 Paul will show that Israel’s rejection fits into God’s larger purposes. Because of Jewish rejection of the Gospel large portions of the Gentile community have been saved. Furthermore, because of Gentile inclusion the Israelites are provoked to a godly jealousy that will draw many in ethnic Israel to saving faith. As we gain insight into the plan of God, we see that He is able to use what looks like failure to us and work it for our salvation and His glory.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Name a few stories and places where God used failures in the Bible. Where has God used failure in your life or the lives of those you love?
2. Where in the Old Testament does God promise to bless the nations?
3. Read Romans 9:1-3. With such a heart for the Jewish people do you think that Paul was disappointed with His calling to evangelize the Gentiles? How did Paul understand his role in ministry?
4. What does Paul mean that Israel will become “jealous”? What does this teach us about “jealousy”? Could someone clearly see and come to envy the benefits of the gospel in your life?
5. How does Paul’s illustrations in these verses (lump of dough or olive tree) increase your awareness of God’s gracious plan? How does the olive tree example help you to live the Christian life?
6. Why must we remember both the kindness and the severity of God? What would go wrong in your life if you emphasized one to the exclusion of the other?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 11:1-10
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
The Remnant
Read: Romans 11:1-10
Scripture and Key References:
“So, too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace.” ~ Romans 11:5
1 Samuel 12:19-22 Zachariah 8:11-13 Isaiah 29:10; 44:18 Psalm 94:14 2 Timothy 1:9-10 1 Corinthians 2:14
Introduction:
As we come to chapter 11 of Romans, Paul is still dealing with the issue he raised in 9:6 – does the Jewish rejection of Christ mean that God’s promises have been voided or have failed? Paul has already laid out three arguments against this conclusion:
· The doctrine of election. All whom God has elected to be save will be saved (9:2-24)
· God had made it known that not all Israelites would be saved but that some Gentiles would be (9:25-29)
· The Jew’s were responsible for failure to believe (9:30-10:21).
Now in chapter 11:1-10, Paul will show it has always been the case that God works with and saves a remnant. This has always been true of the people of God and was true for Paul himself.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Take a moment and define the word “remnant”. Besides the illustration in Romans 11, what are some other biblical examples?
2. Why might Paul list his credentials in Romans 11:1? Do you have a list of characteristics for those you think would never embrace the Gospel? How does this passage undermine such an attitude?
3. Have you ever been in a situation where you felt like you were the only believer? How can you apply the reality of a “remnant”? How will its reality encourage you in the midst our current culture situations?
4. Why does Paul combine the doctrine of “election” with his understanding of “grace”? What does this combination teach us about “election”? What does it teach us about “grace”?
5. Could someone looking at your life clearly see, and so come to envy, the benefits of the gospel that you enjoy?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 10:14-21
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
The Call to Preach and Receive Good News
Read: Romans 10:14-21
Scripture and Key References:
“So, faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” ~ Romans 10:17
Acts 13:1-3 Matthew 10:22; 24:9 Deut. 32:21 John 15:20-21 2 Peter 1:9 Acts 17:29-31
Introduction:
By the grace of God, Paul was a highly successful missionary. His preaching of the Gospel was used by God to bring many to faith in Christ. But he experienced failures, also, and today’s passage makes that clear. Many who heard the message of the Gospel from Paul rejected it, and many of those who rejected it also became hostile toward Him for proclaiming it. This reality is experienced by all who obey the great commission. Always and everywhere, many believe, but many refuse. And although many refuse, we must not think there is something wrong with the message or the delivery method. Israel’s rejection of the Gospel shows us that hearing and even understanding the gospel message does not mean someone will believe it! It requires the work of the Holy Spirit!
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. As an introductory question: What do you think makes for good preaching? What do you think the majority culture in America things of preaching or makes for good preaching?
2. According to verses 14 and 15 of chapter 10, what are some the requirements and preconditions that must exist before someone can confess and believe on the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ?
3. How will this affect the way you share your faith with others? How does this affect your view of preaching? How important is the spread of the Gospel message?
4. How could God use you to bless someone with “beautiful feet,” sharing the good news of salvation? Who could you pray for to “hear” and “believe” the message of the Gospel? Do you count it a privilege to be part of the way God saves people?
5. Do you ever find that you make excuses for “decent folk” who reject the Gospel message? How might you share the Gospel with them in a fresh and pointed way?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 10:5-13
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Types of Righteousness
Read: Romans 9:30-10:13
Scripture and Key References:
“For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness.” ~ Romans 10:3
1 Corinthians 1:23 Philippians 3:1-11 Galatians 2:16 Isaiah 28:9-10 Psalm 19:7; 119:70, 77 Ecclesiastes 7:20
Introduction:
Here in Romans 9:30 Paul is still answering the question, “What about Israel?” Paul wants his audience to know that the Jew’s rejection of Christ does indicate a failure of God’s redemptive plan. He has countered such thinking by making a case for election (9:6-24). He also made sure to note that God’s plan included Gentiles (9:25-29). Now, Paul argues that the Jews alone are to blame for their failure to believe. God clearly made the way of true righteousness known to them. They failed to trust the Christ because they wanted to cling to their own man-made righteousness. Man – made righteousness before God is no righteousness at all.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Have you experienced people who were not seeking a right standing with God and yet God worked to bring them to faith? What did their conversion to Christ look like?
2. In Romans 10:3 we are told that the Jews were ignorant of God’s righteousness. What were they failing to grasp? Why?
3. Paul reminds us that religious energy and sincerity is no guarantee of truth. How does this reality help you relate to your non-Christian neighbors?
4. Are you naturally someone who needs to add zeal to knowledge, or knowledge to zeal?
5. In what ways do you revert back to law-keeping as a means of relating to God? How can we keep this from happening?
6. What does Paul mean when he says that Christ is “the end of the law?” What difference does this make to your life?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 9:30-10:4
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Types of Righteousness
Read: Romans 9:30-10:13
Scripture and Key References:
“For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness.” ~ Romans 10:3
1 Corinthians 1:23 Philippians 3:1-11 Galatians 2:16 Isaiah 28:9-10 Psalm 19:7; 119:70, 77 Ecclesiastes 7:20
Introduction:
Here in Romans 9:30 Paul is still answering the question, “What about Israel?” Paul wants his audience to know that the Jew’s rejection of Christ does indicate a failure of God’s redemptive plan. He has countered such thinking by making a case for election (9:6-24). He also made sure to note that God’s plan included Gentiles (9:25-29). Now, Paul argues that the Jews alone are to blame for their failure to believe. God clearly made the way of true righteousness known to them. They failed to trust the Christ because they wanted to cling to their own man-made righteousness. Man – made righteousness before God is no righteousness at all.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Have you experienced people who were not seeking a right standing with God and yet God worked to bring them to faith? What did their conversion to Christ look like?
2. In Romans 10:3 we are told that the Jews were ignorant of God’s righteousness. What were they failing to grasp? Why?
3. Paul reminds us that religious energy and sincerity is no guarantee of truth. How does this reality help you relate to your non-Christian neighbors?
4. Are you naturally someone who needs to add zeal to knowledge, or knowledge to zeal?
5. In what ways do you revert back to law-keeping as a means of relating to God? How can we keep this from happening?
6. What does Paul mean when he says that Christ is “the end of the law?” What difference does this make to your life?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 9:14-29
Romans: “The just shall live by faith”
Who Are You, O Man?
Read: Romans 9:14-29
Scripture and Key References:
“But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, “Why have you made me like this?” Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for dishonorable use?”
~ Romans 9:20-21
Duet. 29:29; 30: Job 38:1-40:2 Isaiah 29:16; 45:9 Hebrews 8:12; Titus 3:5
Daniel 4:34-37 1 Timothy 1:15-17
Introduction:
Paul knows that his presentation of the doctrine of election in Romans 9:13 will raise some questions. That is why he immediately says in verse 14 – “What shall we say? Is God unjust?” The “isn’t God being unfair?” question is the typical human reaction to this doctrine. And Paul inspired by the Holy Spirit gives a biblical answer to this question. But not just to this question. He also answers several other questions people ask about this doctrine, such as “Doesn’t election violate our free will?” and “What does the Old Testament teach about election?” Note as you read Romans 9, the essence of Paul’s answer is always the same – “God is God and we are not!”.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Can you remember a time before you were a believer in Jesus Christ? Did you desire to live for Him then? Did you actively try to please Him? What made the difference?
2. Do you still have questions about the doctrine of election that you need to wrestle with? How has this chapter helped you? How would you use Romans 9 to answer questions about the “fairness” of God?
3. Take a moment and meditate on Romans 9:20-21 posted above. Do you realize that you are simply a creature in the hands of your Creator? Are you aware of your need for God and your obligation to make much of Him?
4. How does the doctrine of “election” encourage us to share our faith with other? How does this doctrine help us evaluate Christendom’s place in American culture?
5. Did you realize “election” is throughout the Bible? If election is throughout Scripture why do we still have such a hard time embracing it?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 9:1-13
Romans: “The just shall live by faith
God’s Purpose of Election
Read: Romans 9:1-13
Scripture and Key References:
“…in order that God's purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls…” ~ Romans 9:11b
Exodus 32:32 Jeremiah 7:4 Jeremiah 23:3 Isaiah 50:10 1 Kings 19:18 Isaiah 45:4-7
Introduction:
Romans 8 ended in an amazing crescendo of confidence. There Paul rejoiced that God guarantees our final salvation. According to Romans 8:28-39 God will most certainly carry us on to glory! But now Paul anticipates an objection to this glorious gospel. It is almost as if he imagines someone saying: “Paul you say that this Gospel takes us all the way home. But what about the Jews? Were they not ‘God’s chosen people’? But, Paul, most Jews have rejected Jesus at this present time. Doesn’t this cast a shadow on our assurance? Does this mean God’s promise, power, and purpose is failing?” The question of Jewish unbelief is very important and exploring this question will take us deep into who God is and His purpose in history.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. Why might the question of Jewish unbelief be something important for Paul to address in the Roman church? Why does it matter whether or not God’s promises have failed?
2. How does the emotional nature of Paul’s language challenge you? Do you anguish over the lostness of others in your family, workplace and school?
3. In verses 4 & 5 Paul lists the advantages of the Old Covenant people of God. What advantages do you enjoy in the church of Christ? How does this passage teach us to use these advantages?
4. Paul focuses on the doctrine of ‘election’ in this passage. Does this doctrine trouble you? How does the doctrine of election change your perception of who gets credit for your salvation?
5. How does the doctrine of ‘election’ provide a foundation for the believer’s security? How does this doctrine increase your gratitude?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Romans 8:31-39
More than Conquerors
Read: Romans 8:31-39
Scripture and Key References:
“For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” ~ Romans 8:38-39
Psalm 37:4 John 10:28 2 Timothy 2:18-19 Zechariah 3:1-5 1 John 5:4 Hebrews 7:25
Introduction:
In Romans 8 Paul has been outlining for us the benefits of the Gospel. If we need power to walk with God in confident assurance, we need look no further than Romans 8. In verse 28 Paul reminded the Roman congregation that “all things” work together for our good and His glory! What an incredible statement of the Christian’s conquering place in the plan and purposes of God. Today Paul wants to make sure that we understand the proper response to the truth of the Gospel.
Discussion and Review Questions:
1. How much does anxiety plague your day to day life? How much do you think anxiety drives the day to day life of your neighbors and coworkers?
2. Paul lists several causes of anxiety and worry in verses 31-35. Think through each of the five questions asked in these verses and write down the cause for fear Paul is dealing with in the space provided below. Which cause for anxiety in verses 31-35 most resonates with you?
3. In verses 35 & 36 Paul gives a list of hardships that the Roman Christian could have endured in the 1st century A.D. According to our passage what should you as a Christian do if called to endure one of the hard circumstances Paul lists?
4. Would you say with Paul that you are confident that nothing can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus? If you fear being separated from Christ’s love, go back and re-read Romans 8, and ask for the Spirit’s guidance and comfort.