An Illustration from Marriage - Romans 7:1-6
Understand It
- To what did Paul compare the death of a woman’s husband? (7:2-5) Why?
- What are the primary differences between the old life under the Law and the new life in the way of the Spirit? (7:4-6)
- How is a person released from being bound by the Law? (7:6)
Apply It
- What old ideas about pleasing God through religious activity do you need to discard this week?
Struggling with Sin - Romans 7:7-25
Understand It
- How does knowing the Law bring the possibility of death to a person? (7:9-11)
- What did Paul share about his own attempts to follow the Law? (7:14-16)
- What did Paul blame for his continuing failure to do good? (7:17-20)
Apply It
- How can you remind yourself each day this week of God’s victory over sin?
Life Through the Spirit - Romans 8:1-17
Understand It
- How is a person set free from the law of sin and death? (8:2)
- How can a person know if he or she is controlled by the sinful nature or by the Spirit? (8:9)
- By what means can a person find life? (8:13)
Apply It
- What changes have you been resisting in your life that you are now willing to allow your loving heavenly Father to complete?
Future Glory - Romans 8:18-27
Understand It
- How did Paul describe the difference between his present and his future? (8:18)
- What is and is not genuine hope? (8:24-25)
- For whom does the Spirit intercede? (8:27)
Apply It
- In what circumstances of your life do you need to wait patiently for God to act?
More Than Conquerors - Romans 8:28-39
Understand It
- How does God work in all the situations and events of a person’s life? (8:28)
- Why should we feel confident that God is not against us or condemning us? (8:31-34)
- What possible tragedies or hardships are unable to separate us from the love of Christ? (8:35-39)
Apply It
- How can you commit your difficult circumstances to God this week?
God's Sovereign Choice - Romans 9:1-29
Understand It
- What did Paul say to people who claim to be children of God merely because they are descendants of Abraham? (9:8-9)
- How did Paul defend the accusation that God is unjust in His treatment of people? (9:14-15)
- What determines how God bestows favor on people? (9:16)
Apply It
- What sacrifices or efforts can you make this week to help a friend come to faith in Christ?
