When In Romans | Week 1 | “The Man, The Message, and The Mission” | Pastor John Decker
Sermon Summary
In this sermon, we embark on a 26-week journey through the Book of Romans, a foundational text that promises to be life-changing for believers. The series aligns with the church’s yearly theme of “Unshaken,” focusing on how to live unshakably in an unstable world by building our lives on the foundation of Christ. The Book of Romans is presented as a key to living an unshaken life, with its profound theological insights and its central theme of the Gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ. The sermon serves as an introduction, covering Romans 1:1-17, and discusses the man (Paul), the message (the Gospel), and his motivation for sharing this transformative message.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather today to delve into Your Word and reflect on the message we have heard, we ask for Your guidance. Open our hearts and minds to the truths of the Gospel as revealed in the Book of Romans. Help us to be receptive to the lessons You have for us, and may our discussion be fruitful and honoring to You. We pray for a spirit of wisdom and revelation, that we may grow in our understanding and be transformed by Your unshakable truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What is one hobby or activity that you enjoy doing in your free time, and why?
Key Verses
– Romans 1:16 (NIV): “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” – Romans 1:17 (NIV): “For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.'”
Questions
1. How does the theme “Unshaken” resonate with your current life circumstances?
2. What does it mean to you to build your life on the foundation of Christ?
3. In what ways did the Book of Romans play a role in historical awakenings within the church?
4. How can we apply the concept of being “servants of Christ Jesus” in our daily lives?
5. Why is it important to understand the “bad news” before fully grasping the “good news” of the Gospel?
6. Discuss how the Gospel is both exclusive in its claim and inclusive in its offer. How does this shape our approach to sharing our faith?
7. What does Paul’s transformation from a Pharisee to an apostle teach us about the power of the Gospel?
8. How can we cultivate an eagerness to share the Gospel, as Paul did?
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to read Romans 1:1-17 each day, reflecting on the transformative power of the Gospel in your own life. Identify one practical way you can live out being a “servant of Christ Jesus” in your community, whether it’s through an act of kindness, sharing your testimony, or simply offering to pray for someone.
Ending Prayer
Lord God, as we conclude our time together, we thank You for the rich discussions and the insights gained from Your Word. May the truths we have explored in the Book of Romans take root in our hearts and manifest in our lives. Help us to be unshaken in our faith, steadfast in our service, and bold in our witness for You. As we go forth, may we carry the light of the Gospel into every area of our lives, reflecting Your love and grace to all we meet. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.