When In Romans | Week 5 | The Solution To Sin | Pastor Ryan DeFrain
Ryan DeFrain   -  

Sermon Summary
In this sermon, we delve into the heart of the Gospel as presented in Romans chapter 3, verses 21-31. The speaker unpacks the profound truths of redemption, propitiation, and justification—three key concepts that articulate the depth of what Jesus has done for us. Redemption speaks of our rescue from the bondage of sin, propitiation refers to the satisfaction of God’s wrath through Christ’s sacrifice, and justification is the declaration of our righteousness before God through faith. These themes are not only foundational to our understanding of salvation but also transformative for how we live in response to God’s grace.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to reflect on Your Word, we ask for hearts open to the transformative power of Your truth. May we be receptive to the profound message of redemption, propitiation, and justification that You have revealed to us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to grasp the depth of Your love and the magnitude of what You have accomplished on our behalf. Guide our discussion, that it may 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 3:23-24 (NIV): “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
– Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV): “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

Questions
1. How does understanding our need for redemption change the way we view ourselves and others?
2. In what ways have you experienced the reality of being redeemed from the bondage of sin?
3. What does the term ‘propitiation’ reveal to us about God’s character and His response to sin?
4. How does the concept of justification by faith impact your daily life and decisions?
5. Why is it important to recognize that our righteousness comes from Christ and not our own efforts?
6. How can we live out the humility that comes from knowing we are saved by grace, not by works?
7. In what practical ways can we demonstrate the generosity that flows from understanding God’s inclusive salvation for all people?
8. How does upholding God’s law relate to our obedience and gratitude for the salvation we’ve received?

Life Application
This week, let us challenge ourselves to live out the Gospel in our daily interactions. Reflect on the areas of your life where you may have been relying on your own righteousness, and instead, embrace the grace that has been freely given to you. Share the message of redemption with someone who may not have heard it, and let your actions be a testament to the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice.

Ending Prayer
Gracious God, as we conclude our time together, we are filled with gratitude for the gift of salvation that You have so generously provided. May the truths of redemption, propitiation, and justification resonate within us and guide our steps. Help us to carry the light of Your Gospel into the world, living as examples of Your grace and love. Strengthen us to uphold Your law with joy, knowing that it is not a means to earn Your favor, but a response to the favor You have already shown us. In the name of Jesus, our Redeemer and Justifier, we pray. Amen.