When In Romans | Week 13 | Life in The Spirit | Pastor John Decker
Sermon Summary
In this sermon, we delve into Romans chapter 8, focusing on verses 12-17, where Paul discusses the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. We are reminded that as followers of Christ, we are no longer condemned but have a new obligation to live by the Spirit and not by the flesh. This new life involves an ongoing battle against sin, which we do not fight alone but with the power of the Holy Spirit. The sermon emphasizes our identity as adopted children of God, which serves as our motivation to live a holy life. We are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, and despite any suffering we may endure, we have an unshakable inheritance and promise in Him.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather today to reflect on Your Word, we ask for Your Spirit to guide our hearts and minds. Help us to understand the depth of Your love and the power You’ve given us to live a life that honors You. May we embrace our identity as Your adopted children and find the strength to resist the temptations of the flesh. Open our hearts to the insights You have for us today, and let us be transformed by Your truth. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could pick any place in the world to visit for a week, where would it be and why?
Key Verses
– Romans 8:1 – “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
– Romans 8:12-13 – “Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.”
Questions
1. What does it mean to you that there is “no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”?
2. How can we practically “put to death the deeds of the body” by the Spirit?
3. In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to live by the Spirit rather than the flesh?
4. How does understanding our identity as God’s adopted children change the way we approach our struggles with sin?
5. What does being an heir of God and co-heir with Christ signify to you personally?
6. Can you share a time when the Holy Spirit helped you overcome a particular temptation or sin?
7. How can we support one another in our journey to live a Spirit-empowered life?
8. What steps can you take this week to remind yourself of your identity and inheritance in Christ?
Life Application
This week, let’s each identify one area of our lives where we’ve been struggling to live by the Spirit. Commit to daily prayer over this area, asking God for His strength and guidance. Additionally, choose one scripture related to this struggle to memorize and meditate on throughout the week.
Ending Prayer
Dear Lord, as we conclude our time together, we thank You for the truth and hope found in Your Word. We are grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit, which empowers us to live lives free from condemnation. Help us to walk in our identity as Your children and to hold fast to the promise of our eternal inheritance. May we encourage one another and grow in faith as we apply what we’ve learned to our daily lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.