Romans 4:13-25

BIG IDEA: Paul explains the ineffectiveness of the Law and the power of faith by discussing Abraham’s faith. Life Groups will navigate and discuss the difference between the Law and true saving faith. The groups will also discover what it looks like to grow in Jesus, not by the Law, but by grace through faith.

1. THE LAW – Read Romans 4:13-15 CONTEXT: Paul begins this section by contrasting gospel centered faith with the Law by using Abraham as a reference. To understand what Paul is talking about, we want to have a discussion about the Law. It was given by God to Israel and consisted of rules for civil order, ceremonial rituals, and morality. The purpose of the Law was to help God’s people understand that God was Holy, and they were not. In the New Covenant, God offers His Son to fulfill all the requirements of this Law and absorb the sins of the world that violated God and His Law.

A. As a group, look up and read the following verses: Matthew 5:17; Romans 6:14; Romans 8:3-4; Romans 10:4. a. Discuss what these verses say about Jesus and the Law. B. Read 1 Timothy 1:5-11. a. What does Paul say he wants for all believers (verse 5) b. What were the people trying to do instead? (verses 6-7) c. What is the purpose of the Law today? (verses. 8-11) C. As a group, look up and read the following verses: Philippians 2:13; Galatians 5:18; Romans 8:4. a. If Christ followers are not under the Law, by what power and motivation do we live out our faith? b. In what ways do you struggle with law/rule-based living as a Christ Follower?

2. FAITH & GRACE – Read Romans 4:16-25 CONTEXT: Paul continues to use Abraham as a reference and an example of faith. Paul discusses what faith looks like, and how grace and hope play into the activity of faith.

A. How does God’s promise of salvation, faith, and grace go together according to this passage? B. Highlight and discuss all the ways in which Abraham had faith. How did his faith grow (verse 20)? C. How would you define and explain faith as it is discussed in this passage? D. In what ways do you struggle with faith as a Christ Follower?

3. PRAYER & ACTION

A. PRAYER: Thank God for opening your eyes to His gospel and instilling faith in your heart and mind. Ask God to remove all of the lies of legalism and other law-based living. Then, ask Him to strengthen your faith. B. ACTION: Star or circle anything in the chart below that describes what you believe (be honest). Then, discuss your findings with a friend from the group, your spouse, or another spiritual friend/mentor.

UNDER THE LAW UNDER GRACE/FAITH “I am saved and must keep the Law.” “I am saved and only Christ in me can keep the Law.” “Reliance on the Spirit is the key to growth; there are no quick “Willpower is the key to spiritual growth.” fixes.” “Spiritual disciplines earn me God’s blessing.” “Spiritual disciplines grow me deeper into God’s grace.” “What am I allowed to do?” “How can I desire God more and love others more?” “Trials are God’s anger at me – producing guilt/anger.” “Trials are God’s loving way to make me more like Jesus.” “Life successes lead to boasting and judgment of others.” “Success leads to humility, gratefulness – empathy of others.”