When In Romans | Week 11 | The Struggle & The Cure | Pastor John Decker
Sermon Summary
In this sermon, we delve into Romans Chapter 7, where Paul discusses the internal struggle with sin that Christians often face. The key takeaway is that change begins with how we see ourselves, and believing in the righteous identity God has declared over us releases the power to live up to that identity. Paul’s personal struggle is likened to the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, illustrating the internal battle between our sinful nature and our desire to do good. The sermon emphasizes that while we will face struggles in the process of sanctification, the answer to our struggle is always found in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather today to reflect on Your Word and the message we have heard, we ask for Your guidance. Open our hearts and minds to the truths You want us to grasp, and help us to see ourselves as You see us—redeemed and righteous in Christ. May our discussion be fruitful and draw us closer to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could pick any place in the world to visit for a weekend, where 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 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. How does understanding our identity in Christ change the way we approach our struggles with sin?
2. Can you relate to the analogy of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in your own spiritual journey?
3. What does it mean to you to be “dead to sin and alive to God”?
4. How does the law reveal sin in our lives, and how should we respond to this revelation?
5. In what ways have you experienced the struggle between your old nature and your new identity in Christ?
6. How can we practically “put on the new self” as described in Colossians 3?
7. What does it look like to “walk by the Spirit” and not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16)?
8. Share a time when you felt victorious in Christ despite an internal struggle.
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to daily affirm your identity in Christ. When faced with temptation or struggle, remind yourself that you are dead to sin and alive to God. Choose one area of your life where you’ve felt defeated and consciously rely on the Holy Spirit to overcome it.
Ending Prayer
Lord, as we conclude our time together, we thank You for the assurance of victory in Christ. Help us to live out the truths we’ve discussed, to walk in the Spirit, and to embrace our new identity. May we support one another in our journeys and reflect Your love and grace to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.