When In Romans | Week 10 | Alive in Christ | Pastor John Decker
Sermon Summary
In this sermon, we delve into Romans Chapter 6, focusing on verses 11 to 23, where the Apostle Paul emphasizes that true believers cannot continue to willfully and habitually pursue sin. The sermon highlights the transformative power of Christ that breaks the bondage of sin, allowing us to live in the freedom of God’s grace. It challenges us to see ourselves as God sees us—justified, sanctified, and ultimately glorified through faith in Jesus Christ. The message calls us to submit fully to God, resist the devil, and embrace our new identity in Christ, which leads to a life of righteousness and freedom from sin’s control.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather here today, we come before You with open hearts and minds, eager to delve deeper into the truths revealed in today’s sermon. We ask for Your guidance and wisdom to understand and apply Your Word to our lives. Help us to see ourselves as You see us, as new creations in Christ, and empower us to live out this new identity with courage and faith. May our discussion be fruitful and draw us closer to You and to one another. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could pick one word to describe your week, what would it be and why?
Key Verses
– Romans 6:11 (NIV): “In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.”
– Romans 6:23 (NIV): “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Questions
1. How does understanding our identity in Christ change the way we approach our daily struggles with sin?
2. What does it mean to you to be “dead to sin” and how can we live out this truth in practical ways?
3. In what areas of your life do you need to submit more fully to God?
4. How can we resist the temptation to let sin control our lives, as mentioned in Romans 6:12?
5. What are some idols or “ultimate things” that can take precedence over God in our lives?
6. How does the promise of eternal life in Christ influence your perspective on life and death?
7. Can you share a time when you experienced the power of God helping you overcome a particular sin or struggle?
8. How can we encourage one another to keep our focus on our new identity in Christ?
Life Application
This week, take time each morning to affirm your identity in Christ. Declare that you are accepted, secure, and significant because of what Jesus has done for you. Choose one area where you have struggled with sin and intentionally submit it to God, asking for His strength to overcome and walk in righteousness.
Ending Prayer
Lord God, we thank You for the time we have spent in fellowship and discussion. We are grateful for the new life You have given us in Christ and the freedom from sin’s grip. As we go from here, help us to live out the truths we have discussed, to see ourselves as You see us, and to walk in the victory You have won for us. May our lives reflect Your love and grace to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.