When In Romans | Week 11 | The Struggle Is Real | Pastor Ryan DeFrain
Sermon Summary
In this sermon, we delve into Romans Chapter 7, where Paul addresses the internal conflict that believers often face between their sinful nature and their new identity in Christ. The sermon emphasizes that while the law of God is good and reveals our sinfulness, it does not have the power to justify or sanctify us. Instead, it is through Jesus Christ that we find transformation. Paul candidly shares his own struggles, highlighting that even the most spiritually mature individuals battle with sin. However, he also points to the solution—our complete dependence on Christ for salvation and sanctification.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to reflect on Your Word and the message we have heard, we ask for Your Spirit to guide our hearts and minds. Help us to be open to the lessons You have for us today. May our discussion be fruitful and draw us closer to You. We pray for the courage to confront our struggles and the wisdom to lean on Your strength. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could pick any biblical character to have lunch with, who would it be and why?
Key Verses
– Romans 7:15 (NIV): “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.”
– Romans 7:24-25 (NIV): “What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
Questions
1. Can you relate to Paul’s struggle in Romans 7 with doing what he hates instead of what he knows is right?
2. How does understanding that the law reveals sin but cannot save us change your perspective on following God’s commandments?
3. What are some ways we can remind ourselves of our new identity in Christ when faced with temptation?
4. How does the analogy of marriage in Romans 7 help us understand our relationship to the law?
5. In what areas of your life do you find yourself trying to earn God’s favor instead of resting in His grace?
6. How can we support one another in the group when we face the internal battle between our old nature and our new life in Christ?
7. What does it mean to you to be “crucified with Christ” and how does that influence your daily life?
8. How can we practice complete dependence on Jesus in practical terms throughout our week?
Life Application
This week, let’s challenge ourselves to identify one area where we’ve been relying on our own strength instead of God’s. Commit to bringing this area before God in prayer each day, asking for His power to work in your weakness and for the Holy Spirit to guide you in walking in freedom and victory.
Ending Prayer
Lord, as we close our time together, we thank You for the truth that sets us free. We acknowledge our struggles and our need for Your saving grace. May the discussions we’ve had today resonate in our hearts and lead to transformation in our lives. Help us to live out the truths we’ve learned and to support one another in our walk with You. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.