MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ROMANS 8:18-30

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

Summary:

Like all women, pregnancy involves lots of pain and discomfort. The bigger the child grows, the harder it is to breathe, sleep, and undertake otherwise normal activities. Energy levels are often low, and pain levels are also high. The closer you got to the birth, the more intense and frequent all the pains and problems become. Everything culminates with the birth of a child, and then recovery as new life begins.

Paul uses this analogy to explain our present life. This life is like childbirth. It’s a painful, awful, constant mess that only gets worse before it gets better. Not only are we, but all of creation, subjected to the curse of the fall and are pushing and groaning for the new world and our new life to be birthed. Thankfully, we have the Holy Spirit with us every moment so that we can access His divine power to meet our needs.

Discussion Questions:

In what areas of your life is the pain of the fall and curse most frustrating right now (e.g. physical or mental health, a loved one is sick or dying, things simply keep breaking and falling apart, etc.?)

How can you welcome the Holy Spirit to help you process and push through your pains and problems (e.g. time in prayer, worship, Scripture, talking with wise counsel, etc.)?

In what areas are you needing to grow in patience right now?
In what areas of your life is it most urgent to be conformed to the image of his Son Jesus Christ so that your old ways are replaced by His ways?

Have someone read aloud Paul’s conversion story from Acts 7:54-8:3 and 9:1-31.

Share your testimony and how God called you to Himself.

What birth pains are you experiencing in your life right now that we can be praying for?

Why is it so important that we truly trust that in this life or eternity, God will work out “all things” for good for those who love Him?

What are you most looking forward to when you are fully glorified, healed, and delivered in Jesus’ presence once and forever?

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ROMANS 8:1-17

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

Summary: Some religions believe in one god (monotheism), and other religions believe in many gods (polytheism). Only Christianity believes in the Trinity, that there is one God in three persons Spirit, Son, and Father. For Christians, this is a closed-handed issue and one of our beliefs that makes us distinct from all other religions, ideologies, and spiritualities. Our God is relational and changes us when we enter into a relationship with Him. In this section of Romans, we are told in life-changing, heartwarming, eternity-altering detail how a relationship with each member of the Trinity transforms us.

First, Jesus died not only to forgive our sin, but also to remove any and all condemnation (8:1-4). God cannot love you any more, and, no matter what you have done or will do, God will not love you any less. Jesus was condemned in your place so that you could no longer be condemned by demonic torment, regrets of your past, criticism of others, or wrath of God.

Second, the same Holy Spirit who empowered the life of Jesus also now lives in the believer, bringing resurrection life and power (8:5-13). When Jesus told us that He would send us the Helper (John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7), He knew that we would need the Spirit’s help to live a spiritual life. When Jesus needed help, He went to the Helper and we can do the same.

Third, God the Father has adopted us into His eternal family, made us children of God, and heirs of the Spirit and all spiritual blessings (8:14-17). This incredible truth radically alters how we see God, ourselves, and other Christians. Our Father is perfect, powerful, loving, and devoted to us. We are loved, secure, cared for, protected, provided, and cherished. Furthermore, we are adopted into a new family called the Church where we enjoy new relationships just like a child brought home by a loving father to meet the rest of the family.

Discussion Questions:

1. Are you more familiar with God the Father, God the Son, or God the Spirit? Why?

2. What condemnation has Jesus taken from you?

3. What power has the Spirit given you?

4. What love has the Father lavished on you?

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ROMANS 7:1-14

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

Summary:

The Bible uses a lot of language from marriage and family to help describe our relationship with God. In this section, we are taught that the obligations of marriage come to an end once our spouse dies which explains the vows, “’til death do you part”.

In this section, the Holy Spirit through Paul will compare and contrast being married to the law verses being married to grace in three ways.

1) Living under the law is like a bad marriage (Romans 7:1-3). Paul uses the Greek word for law “nomos” some 121 times throughout his letters. The word has a variety of uses, but in this context, it likely refers to the general meaning of God’s universal standards of right and wrong over everyone. The law reflects God’s character as Lawgiver, restrains some evil through our conscience (Romans 2) and government (Romans 13), and also reveals to us our own sin.

Non-Christians often deny that there is a universal standard of right and wrong, but, when pressed, are forced to acknowledge it in a variety of ways:

1. We rebel against law as we want to be sovereign and not under authority

1. We feel guilty when we violate the law

2. We appeal to the law to criticize and judge others when they violate the law

3. When we do well, we appeal to the law to show our success

4. When we fail to obey the law, we try to ignore or hide the law so we don’t get caught

5. When we fail the law and are found out, we feel defeat and depression for our shortcoming

The law is good, and we are bad. The law is like an MRI that shows us what is wrong with us but cannot do anything to fix the problem. The law shows us our sin and need for a Savior who fulfills the law and frees us from it.

Living life under, or to use Paul’s metaphor being married to law, feels a lot like rules, control, punishment, failure, and cheerless constant falling short. This can include increasing rules from a parent or spouse at home, boss at work, overreach from government, or laws and legalisms at church. Thankfully, when Jesus died, we too died to the law and are now free to a new relationship with Jesus Christ by grace. ROMANS 6-11

2) Living under grace is like a great marriage (Romans 7:4-6). The Bible often uses the metaphor of marriage to the Christian faith. Jesus is portrayed as a faithful groom, and the Church as His beloved bride. In marriage there is a sacred moment where the covenant

is made, a new legal status is conferred, and a new name is taken by the bride. The same is true for the believer as we are in covenant with Jesus, receive His legal status of eternal righteousness as our inheritance, and take the name Christian to honor Him.

3) We live under the law or in the Spirit (Romans 7:7-13). The two primary purposes of the law are to name our sin and aggravate our sin nature. Paul makes this issue personal, referring to himself nearly thirty times in Romans 7. He says that once he heard about coveting, his sinful nature immediately and passionately started to violate the 10th Commandment. The same is true of us. Every parent knows the reality of the sin nature well – as a child tends to do exactly the opposite of what they are told.

Since laws are good and we are bad, more laws tend to result in more rebellion. What we need is a new nature with new desires and new power all possible because of the Holy Spirit. This is precisely where Paul is driving his argument as Romans 8 is about living in the Spirit rather than under the law dead to sin and alive to Christ. 

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Discussion  Questions: Romans 7:1-14

Which of God’s laws do you personally struggle most to not rebel against?

Are there any moral limits in God’s Word that you believe are wrong or wish you could change? Why?

In what ways has God’s grace changed some behaviors, attitudes, and beliefs in your life as He patiently and kindly walked you through a change process?

Who are you least likely to give law to instead of grace? Why? How can that relationship be improved?

Who do you know that does a good job pointing out a problem that violates the law, but deals with it in a way that brings grace and help to remedy the problem? 

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ROMANS 3:21-31

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Summary:

After Paul described the content of the Gospel of Jesus (Romans 1:3-4), and completed the introduction of his letter to the church at Rome (1:1-15), he concludes his opening thoughts by introducing the Power of the Gospel to reveal the Righteousness of God and provide Salvation to everyone who believes in the Gospel by Faith (1:16-17). 

Paul then transitions his thoughts to the universal unrighteousness of all people and the subsequent wrath of God for all sinners (1:18- 3:20). Paul’s indictment of all people is strong and thorough. He declares that God is righteous, has given us His law to obey, that we have all broken His good law and become unrighteous, and are therefore separated from the good and perfect God. Paul further declares that there is absolutely nothing that we can do to remedy our lost condition in sin. God has therefore been just, and our damnation is deserved and right. 

Paul then returns to proclaiming the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus in 3:21-31 by which the sinner is declared righteous before God, and made right with God, by faith in and grace from Jesus Christ.

This section of Romans is one of the most important texts in the entirety of the Protestant Reformation. It has been summarized as:

•Scripture Alone – only the Bible reveals the Gospel completely and perfectly, not the traditions or thoughts of men.

•Grace Alone – we are saved from the penalty of our sin solely by God’s Grace, not our own efforts, as Jesus lived the righteous life we have not lived and paid the ultimate price we should have paid.

•Faith Alone – we are saved from the penalty of our sin solely by placing Faith in Jesus’ work on our behalf, not on our own works. 

•Christ Alone – we are saved from the penalty of our sin by Jesus alone, not by anyone or anything else in addition to or in place of Christ.

•To God be the Glory – we are to give glory, thanks and praise to God alone for our salvation, not to anyone or anything else.

Study Questions:

Regarding human sin, how extensive does Paul say that the problem of human unrighteousness extends in 3:23? Do you truly believe that this includes you personally?

Paul says that religious people try to either earn their righteousness with good deeds, traditions, and other human efforts in 3:27-28, including the Jewish people and himself as he sought to earn righteousness through dedicated religious devotion. What things have you, and people you know, sought to use to earn for yourself right standing before God (e.g. baptism, speaking in tongues, suffering, tithing, serving, paying off karmic debt, etc.)?

Gentiles are non-Jewish people, and God loves them as well. Read Genesis 22:15-18 to see the angelic declaration that God’s plan was to bless all the Gentile nations through Jesus Christ. How is the promise of Genesis fulfilled in Romans 3:28-30?

List all the ways and times in this section of Scripture that explain how and why all we need for forgiveness of sin and a righteous standing before God is found fully and only in Jesus Christ.

Discussion Questions:

1. How have you sought, or seen people you know, seek to be righteous by non-religious works like social or political causes, moral crusades, pointing out everyone else’s sin instead of their own, etc.?

2. How have you sought, or seen people you know, seek to be righteous by religious works that make them arrogant and judgmental of others?

3. How is it a humbling relief to trust that, if you have Jesus, you have everything to be right with God? What burdens does this lift for you personally?

4. Paul says that after Jesus saves us, we uphold the law. We do this by agreeing that the law has shown us our sin, and then getting a new nature with new desires from the Holy Spirit by which what God did for us in Jesus, and does in us through the Spirit, flows through us to change how we live. For the Christian, we do not live for our righteousness, but we live from Jesus’ righteousness. How has your life changed since Jesus made you righteous?

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ROMANS 3:1-20

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS—ROMANS 3:1-20

Summary: The Jewish nation began with the pagan Gentile Abram being chosen by God for salvation (Genesis 12) and trusting in God by faith so that he was renamed Abraham (Genesis 15:6; Hebrews 11:8-12). God promised that through Abraham would come a son, through that son would come the nation of Israel, and through that nation would come Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of the nations of the world. Paul, who was himself a devout Jew before meeting Jesus, answers the question if there is any benefit to being Jewish now that the mission and message of salvation has gone forth into the Gentile nations making Jewish believers a minority group within Christianity. Paul says that there are many benefits to being Jewish, but they are not of any eternal blessing unless someone believes in Jesus Christ, which was the whole point of the Old Testament and Jewish faith. 

Discussion Questions: 

In Romans 3:9-19, Paul says that God rules the world by unchangeable laws that are like math – true for everyone no matter whether they agree or not. How does this understanding of God’s unchanging universal laws apply to individuals who believe they are the exception to God’s laws, and entire cultures that disagree with God’s laws? 

In Romans 3:20, Paul says that the more we learn the laws of God in the Word of God, the more we should be aware that we  are a sinner and need a Savior. What were some of the first things God convicted you of as a new Christian? In what areas has God recently been showing you that you need to change? 

Paul says that sometimes people who are religious, and participate in religious events and traditions, wrongly think that they are right with God even if they don’t believe in Jesus Christ. How have you fallen into this same trap in your life?

When Paul says that “God will judge the world” it should give us hope that the wrongs will be made right, everyone and everything will be dealt with justly once and forever, and that the world as we know it will come to an end to be replaced by perfection and peace. What are you most looking forward to when God once and for all judges the world? 

Paul says that the more we understand God’s commands in the Scriptures, the more we should be aware of all the ways we have broken God’s laws and sinned. How have you seen your awareness of your own sin and need for a Savior increase the more you have learned the Bible?

How has God been faithful to you even when you have failed to be faithful to Him? 

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ROMANS 2:5-16

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS—ROMANS 2:5:16

What were some of the characteristics of the pagan culture that the Christians in Rome came out of?

In verse 5 what does Paul say is the result of bringing all this garbage from the world and your previous life, into your new life in Christ?

In chapter 2, how is the apostle Paul defining “works”?

If the law does not justify you before God, how are you able to approach the throne of God?

How does the apostle Paul differentiate between a “hearer” of the law and “doer” of the law?

What does Paul mean by “a law to themselves”?

For the person who considers himself “good”, what can you tell them that helps him understand the need for Jesus?

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ROMANS 2:1-4

Summary:

Although everyone is a sinner by nature and choice, some people who live according to the conscience God gave them do live moral lives in comparison to the average person. This would include religious people who do not have the Holy Spirit but live by moral laws in their religion’s teachings. 

The problem is that moral people tend to make themselves the standard for morality, and then judge and look down on others as being morally inferior. The standard of morality is God and, in comparison to God, we are all sinners who need a Savior. Since pride is perhaps the worst sin of all, people who are proud of their morality are perhaps the worst sinners of all, as these were the arrogant religious types who killed Jesus thinking they were holy, and He was unholy. 

People pursuing righteousness have three options. One, if you accept that you are an unrighteous sinner and do not believe anything can be done to change your status, you embrace your lot as a broken and bad person. Two, if you try to fix your unrighteousness by becoming a disciplined moral person, you fall into the trap of becoming self-righteous, which is just another form of being unrighteous. Three, if you accept that you are unrighteous, see Jesus Christ as the standard of righteousness, and accept His righteousness as a gift to you then you escape the traps of being unrighteous and self-righteous through His gift-righteousness.

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS—ROMANS 2:1-4

1. In 2:1-3, Paul talks about the universal human problem to judge others without judging ourselves. Unlike our hypocrisy, God who is holy judges everyone by the same standards in total justice.

2. In 2:4, we are told that the reason people get away with sin is because God is working on them. How has this principle worked to change your life? Who are you frustrated with that God might be working on that you can give some kindness to?

3. Paul talks about “your hard...heart”. Have you had a time that your heart was simply just hard and unyielding about something with God?

4. Read 2:4 and share with one another how God’s loving patience has brought about some big changes in your life to encourage one another.

5. Who do you know that is living in rebellion and you are needing to extend them God’s patience in hope that their life course turns in repentance back to God and grace?

6. Paul compares and contrasts what God saves us from, and what God saves us to. What are some things God has saved you from, and what things has God saved you to that you can share to encourage one another? 

7. If you are a Christian, Jesus endured the wrath of God so that you could enjoy the grace of God. Take a few moments to stop and simply thank Jesus Christ for all the things the Holy Spirit brings to mind that you have been saved from.

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ROMANS 1:18-25

Summary: The God of the Bible is holy, righteous, good, and not silent. He has spoken to us through the special revelation of the Scriptures, and Jesus Christ. He has also spoken to us through the general revelation of creation around us and a conscience within us. Despite all of this revelation, people choose to suppress the truth because they love sin more than God. This is especially true of sexual sin, which people tend to love the most. This causes people to worship created things (like the human body and pleasures of sex), rather the Creator God. God’s response to this rebellion is wrath. The wrath of God is His fully just and right response to sin and evil which is at war against His holiness and goodness. The wrath of God is not something that has ever been popular for people to hear. However, the Scripture is very clear that the wrath of God is dealt with in only one of two ways. One, Jesus Christ paid the price of God’s wrath in our place for our sins on the cross. Two, we pay the price of God’s wrath in our place for our sins in hell. John 3:36 succinctly says, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS—ROMANS 1:18-25

1. In Romans 1:18-21, Paul says that in addition to the Scriptures, God has also revealed Himself and His character to us in creation He made around us, and the conscience He made in us. What are some things that you have learned about God through creation externally and conscience internally? 

2. Paul talks about well-educated people who are intelligent but not wise. What is the difference between being smart and having intelligence versus being wise and knowing how to live in obedience to God? 

3. In what ways throughout your life have you put creation (someone or something) in the place of God your Creator? Why is this something we all often need to be reminded of? 

4. In Romans 1:22-23, Paul says that everyone worships, and that the only difference is that some people worship the Creator, while everyone else worships someone or something in creation (e.g. spouse, child, food, alcohol, status, power, comfort, reputation, success, etc.). How have you seen this truth in your life, that if you are not passionately following God then your passions veer you off course to pursue someone or something else in His place?  

5. What is the difference between someone who struggles against sinful temptation that they know is wrong and want to defeat, versus someone who gives in to it, indulges it, becomes proud of it, and encourages others to do it?

6. Is there someone you love, without gossiping, that we can pray for as they have chosen to self-destruct through feeding sinful desires of the flesh?

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ROMANS 1:16-17

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

MC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS—ROMANS 1:16-17 

1. What stood out to you from the sermon on Sunday?

2. When did this truth about receiving God’s righteousness by faith first impact you?

3. Where are the moments in your life when you tend to depend on your own righteousness?

Paul says he was not ashamed of the gospel. For him to mention this means that he realizes that it is possible to be ashamed. He knew those reading his letter were facing ridicule for their belief in this crucified Christ. 

Take a moment to read 1 Corinthians 1:18-25. Discuss how in the eyes of the world the gospel seems foolish and weak.

4. How is God glorified in the seeming “foolishness” of the gospel? 

In v17 Paul says the “righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith.” Paul is referring here to the righteousness that God declares and gives to the believer as he credits them with the righteousness of Christ by faith.

5. Read Ephesians 2:8-10. Discuss the nature of faith. Paul says it is a gift given by God. 

6. What are the implications of this truth? 

Through the instrument of faith, God credits or imputes the righteousness of Christ to the believer. This truth is at the very heart of the good news of the gospel. In other words, God takes dead sinners, makes them alive and gives them the gift of faith which they then exercise in Christ. God then removes the guilt of their sin and declares them righteous before him because of Christ’s work. He then guarantees that they will live by this same faith as they grow in Christ and will one day be finally and fully free of remaining sin. Praise God! 

7. Take some time to discuss why this is such gloriously good news.

MC Discussion Questions Romans 1:8-17

MC Discussion Questions Romans 1:8-17

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The best way to start learning any book of the Bible is to simply pray and read it over and over. As the longest of Paul’s letters in the New Testament, it takes about an hour to read the entire book of Romans. There are 16 chapters, and each chapter takes between 2-5 minutes to read. 

Here are some practical plans for you to choose from in reading Romans: 

1. Read Romans 1 hour each day to read the entire book every day 

2. Read Romans 30 minutes each day to read the entire book every other day 

3. Read Romans 15 minutes each day to read the entire book every four days 

4. Read Romans just under 10 minutes each day to read the entire book once a week 

In addition to Bible reading for yourself, the following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

MC Discussion Questions: Romans 1:8-17

Paul talks about preaching the gospel to reap a harvest. Who preached the gospel to you to help you become a Christian? 

Are there any teachings in biblical Christianity that you struggle to not be ashamed of (1:16)? Why? 

How have you experienced the power of the gospel in your own life (1:16)? 

Habakkuk 2:4 is also quoted in Galatians 3:11 and Hebrews 10:38. To learn more about faith, look up those Scriptures in context. 

Paul has tried repeatedly to visit the Christians in Rome and has been unable (1:8-15). He hopes to visit soon, but in the meantime sent a letter. Is there anyone you wish you could be with but cannot right now for some reason? How could you encourage them (a letter, call, text, etc.)? 

Paul starts by praying a prayer of thanksgiving. Spend some time as a group sharing things you are thankful for and then pray for one another. 

MC Discussion Questions Romans 1:1-7

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

The best way to start learning any book of the Bible is to simply pray and read it over and over. As the longest of Paul’s letters in the New Testament, it takes about an hour to read the entire book of Romans. There are 16 chapters, and each chapter takes between 2-5 minutes to read. 

Here are some practical plans for you to choose from in reading Romans: 

1. Read Romans 1 hour each day to read the entire book every day 

2. Read Romans 30 minutes each day to read the entire book every other day 

3. Read Romans 15 minutes each day to read the entire book every four days 

4. Read Romans just under 10 minutes each day to read the entire book once a week 

In addition to Bible reading for yourself, the following questions are intended to help individuals and groups learn Romans. 

Please use these questions as tools and not rules. As the Holy Spirit guides your time in Scripture, and as you have discussion with others, the goal is not finishing all of the questions but rather meeting with God through learning the Bible. Consider this time  more as a compass pointing you in a direction than a map that directs your every step

MC Discussion Questions: Pt. 1 Romans 1:1-7

1. Paul starts by telling us a bit of his testimony and how he became a Christian. Take a few minutes and have each person share where they are at on their faith walk and where it started. 

2. Paul says he is a servant of Christ Jesus. What are some of the practical ways you are serving Christ Jesus in this season (e.g. spouse, parent, employee, ministry, etc.)? 

3. Paul starts by focusing our attention on God’s love, grace, and peace for us. How have you seen these things in your life, especially God’s grace? God’s grace is named around over 150 times in the New Testament, about 100 times it is from Paul. The book of the New Testament that mentions God’s grace the most is Romans, where it appears around 24 times. Can you give some specific examples of how God’s grace has shown up in your life? 

4. Peace corresponds with the OT word “Shalom”, which means not merely the absence of war, but the presence of blessing. It is a rich and full word looking to final redemption and restoration, healing, wholeness when everyone and everything is brought under the rule of Jesus, the Prince of Shalom. Are there any areas in which you are struggling to live because it is the opposite of shalom that we could pray for and help with? 

Easter 2022 MC Discussion Questions - "Hope Resurrected" John 20

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

1. What does Mary’s encounter with Jesus teach us about our hope of the resurrection?

2. What does John 20 teach us about the promises of God?

3. According to the sermon, what type of faith does Jesus call us to and why is this significant?

4. How have you responded in times of doubt and unbelief in your own life?

5. What are the implications of the resurrection for our lives today?

MC Questions 2 Peter 3

Introduction:

Peter closes his letter by repeating his love for the people with the warm term “beloved” that he has used repeatedly in reference to them (1 Peter 2:11, 4:12; 2 Peter 3:1, 3:8, 3:14, 3;17). Peter has also used this term “beloved” to speak about his friend, the Apostle Paul (2 Peter 3:15), and reminded us that this term was also the one that God the Father used to speak of Jesus at His baptism (2 Peter 1:17). 

Peter begins his closing remarks by ensuring that they know that, like a spiritual father, he loves them as God the Father loved Jesus. It is hard to overemphasize how fond his affection is for them, and how this would have allowed them to trust that what he was telling them was from God, for their good, and done in love.

Observation:

1. In calling the people he is leading and feeding “beloved” Peter is modeling for us the truth that we should connect before we correct. How are you at doing this same thing for others?

2. In all honestly, do you sometimes feel like God works too “slowly”?

3. What does Peter mean in saying that God is “patient” with us? 

4. How was God “patient” as He waited for you to “reach repentance” and “salvation”?

5. What are you most surprised about in Peter’s prophecy about the end of this world and nature of God’s eternal Kingdom?

Application:

1. Peter says that Paul also wrote “Scripture”. If you have never read

the books of the Bible Paul wrote, start by reading Romans, which is his biggest book packed with incredible insight into most every area of Christian doctrine.

2. What very practical things would most help you to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ”?

MC Discussion Questions 2 Peter Ch. 2

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

Observation:

Everything God creates, Satan counterfeits.

God creates teachers, Satan counterfeits with false teachers.

God creates truth, Satan counterfeits with lies.

God creates freedom from sin, Satan counterfeits with slavery to sin.

Romans 12:9 says that Christian discernment is required to, “Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” Peter spends this entire chapter illustrating this very point in incredibly passionate and clear terms to warn us about deception that is often powerful, pleasurable, and profitable but ultimately demonic, deceptive, and damnable.

Interpretation:

1. Read through the section of Scripture and underline everything that explains the truth of God.

2. Read through the section of Scripture and circle everything that explains the lie of the counterfeit.

3. What are some reasons that Peter gives to explain why false teachings and demonic counterfeits are so popular and

enticing?

4. What examples does Peter give from the Old Testament of God

judging false teachers and their demonic counterfeit?

5. What is the significance of Balaam in this passage (Numbers

25)?

Observation:

1. Are you more prone to be a trusting person who has a hard time believing that the world is filled with false-teachers, or more prone to be a suspicious person who can too quickly rush to judge a Bible teacher for an error?

2. What are the reasons Peter gives that explain why false teachers are so powerful, popular, and persuasive?

3. What issues have you had to stand against in your walk with Jesus because they were not secondary issues Christians disagree on, but primary issues which are dividing lines between Christians and non-Christians?

4. What is the difference between an imperfect Christian leader (like Peter) and a counterfeit Christian leader (like Judas)?

Application

1. What good Bible teachers and Bible study resources do you need to make a priority in your life to help you be godly and wise?

2. What information sources (e.g. preachers, politicians, media, teachers, social media, etc.) are not beneficial or helpful and therefore need to be reduced or removed from your life?

3. Pray to God asking Him to reveal any area in your life where you accommodate false teaching to excuse some sin that you enjoy (e.g. sexual sin or other pleasure that displeases God)?

Prayer

1. Is there any false teaching or counterfeit that a group member is struggling to distance themselves from that you can pray for and lovingly and gently support?

2. Do you have any family or friends who have fallen prey to what is clearly false teaching that we can be praying come into right relationship with Jesus and escape the trap the Enemy has set

for them?

3. What attributes on the list of false teachers are temptations for

you to possibly fall into (e.g. arrogance, defiance of authority, excusing personal sin, unhealthy sexual lust, greed, etc.)?

MC Discussion Questions - 2 Peter 1:16-21

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

WEEK 2: 2 PETER 1:16-21

Introduction: To get a word from God, you need to open the Word of God. In every generation, certain trends in  philosophy, spirituality, and every other area of life become fashionable. They come and go, but 1 Peter 1:24-25 already told us, “All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls, but the word of the Lord remains forever.” We are a few thousand years removed from Peter, but his words have proven true. 

Today, the Bible is the best-selling, most-read, most translated, and most-beloved book in the history of the world. Why? Because it is revelation from God the Holy Spirit delivered through human authors that unleashes God’s power for life change. Peter uses his own testimony to help reinforce this fact, as what was written about Jesus in the Scriptures was also witnessed by Peter himself. 

Observation:

1. What are “cleverly devised myths” that you have fallen into believing in your past or present?

2. Do you believe that the books of the Bible actually came from God the Holy Spirit through human authors? Why or why not? 

3. What topic, or book of the Bible, has God laid on your heart a curiosity to study? 

4. Are there any changes you should make to your routine to increase your time in God’s Word (e.g. listening to the Bible on your commute or while doing chores)? 

Interpretation:

1. How important is it to you to know that Peter was an eyewitness to the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ? How does Peter’s life experience with Jesus add to his credibility about Jesus? 

2. How is this world dark, and the Word of God a light not just in general but in a very specific area of your life? 

3. What practical things have you found most helpful to learn God’s Word? 

4. Which person is a good example for you to aspire to with their knowledge and application of the Bible? 

Application:

1. Do you have a good study Bible for yourself?

2. Is there anyone you know who could benefit from a good Bible as a gift from you? 

3. Since the Bible is alone, perfect and from God, what is your Bible reading plan to be in God’s Word? 

4. Is there anyone you know that you should meet with to ask about how to grow in God’s Word since that is an area of strength for them? 

MC Discussion Questions - 2 Peter 1:1-15

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

The best way to start learning any book of the Bible is to simply read it over and over. Thankfully, that is an easy task with 2 Peter. Since it is only 61 verses long, it can be read in roughly 10 minutes. 

WEEK 1: 2 PETER 1:1-15 

Scripture: 1 Simeon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those 1 4 who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: 2May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3 His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, 4by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. 5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, 6and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. 11For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

12 Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. 13I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ made clear to me. 15And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things. 

Introduction

Peter begins his second letter to Christians who were increasingly despised and opposed in their culture as they were seeking to learn how they could continue to become like Christ and point others to Christ. The tone of the letter is like that of a spiritual father with a family who wants to do what is right and is wrestling with how to do it. 

Peter teaches all Christians that, “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3). The Christian life is, contrary to a lot of popular opinion, a life we live for God. No, the Christian life is God working for us in Jesus, as well as in us and through us by the Holy Spirit. This truth provides the courage to live through suffering for Christ, and the humility to live through the Spirit like Christ. 

Observation

1. Peter says that all Christians have “equal standing” with him in Christ. Do you really and truly believe that there is no such thing as junior varsity Christians, and that you are as loved, forgiven, and empowered as Peter? 

2. List out the things that Peter warns us are working against our progress in Christian living. Which of these items is most difficult for you? 

3. List out the virtues that God the Holy Spirit wants to grow in you by His “divine power”. Which one have you made the most progress in? Which one(s) still need the most growth? 

4. Peter says that there are things we need to remind one another of. What are the most important things that you know, but sometimes forget, and need to be reminded about (e.g. reading Scripture, confessing our sin, forgiving others, praying, worshiping, giving, serving, etc.)? 

Interpretation

1. Peter talks about being a “servant” “of Christ”. Who has been the most helpful to you in your Christian walk? Who has God called you to serve in this season? 

2. Peter talks about stirring up passion for Christian living in fellow believers. How can we encourage one another practically during the week to continue moving forward in our faith walk? 

3. Peter talks about how he could not be physically with them, and one day would die, but that they could continue to learn about and grow in Christ without him. Who has served you in your past in this way? Who are you praying continues to walk with Jesus even when you are not present with them, or alive on the earth? How can we join you in prayer for them (e.g. spouse, friend, child, grandchild)? 

4. Peter says that the Christian can become so “near sighted” that they are essentially “blind”. This happens when we lose sight of the judgment of our lives for eternal rewards in the Kingdom of Heaven. In which area(s) are you most prone to nearsightedness–thinking and focusing on the short-term instead of long-term? 

Application 

1. Since it takes around 10 minutes to read 2 Peter, will you commit to reading it every day for the next month? 

2. Peter wrote a letter to communicate encouragement to believers who were suffering and struggling. Who do you know that would benefit from you following his example and writing a letter to them? 

3. Who do you need to stir up a passion in for continuing to mature as a Christian? How can you encourage and motivate them in love? 

4. Of all the negative things Peter lists, which one would you like prayer for the most so that you can walk in victory over it? 

5. Of all the positive things Peter lists, which one would you like prayer for the most to make that a focused area of growth in your life? 

6. Peter is writing to numerous small churches that operated a lot like small groups that meet in homes. What kind of relationships would result if our group followed his instruction? How can you be praying together to foster that environment for healthy relationships?

MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 10

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

Week 10

 Exodus 20:17

“ You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbors.”

Introduction 

When God frees us, he does two things: he frees us from the oppression of sin and death, and frees us to enjoy relationship with him. While believers are set free, never does freedom mean that we are not dependent upon God. Even as we seek to obey the commandments, we are never self-reliant. But sadly, often times in the Christian life, we go it alone and settle for mere external obedience and self-reliance. But God never intends mere external obedience. Instead, he is seeking worship from the heart. The last and tenth Commandment shifts the gaze from mere rule-following to heart motivations. 

The tenth commandment reveals the sin of discontent. At the root of discontent is covetousness, the desire to have what doesn't belong to us. In the midst of our covetousness, may we be satisfied in Jesus alone as the ultimate source of our contentment. 

Observation 

• A theme of The Ten Commandments is protection. Commandments 1-4 protect our relationship with God, while commandments 5-9 protect our relationship with others. Who or what does the tenth commandment provide protection for? From who or what? 

• How is this commandment similar to Commandments 5-9? How is it different? 

Interpretation 

• To covet means to “ earnestly desire.” According to 1st Corinthians 12:31 and 14:1, can earnest desire ever be good? What is the difference between the earnest desire commended by Paul in 1st Corinthians and that in the tenth commandment of Exodus 20?

• In the tenth commandment, God not only wants to govern our deeds but our motivations and thoughts. In light of James 1:14-15, why is this necessary? 

•  How might love of the wrong thing and discontent manifest in your walk with God?

•  Read Philippians 4:10-13. In what circumstances of life do you find yourself feeling discontent? What is Paul's secret to contentment?

•  Read Romans 7:7-12, 21-25. According to Paul, what is the purpose of the law in our salvation story? Paul is a student of the Jewish law, yet he writes here of his struggle to keep it. How does he describe this “war within him,” and how is it resolved? 

Application

• In Luke 12:15, Jesus warned the crowd to “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” What currently consumes your thoughts? How are you influenced by the outward appearances of others' lives? 

• Is there anyone you are envious of right now? What about their life or possessions do you want? What do you wish God would give you that you don't currently have? 

• In what life circumstances are you discontent? If God's love is the source of contentment, what aspect of it is difficult for you to believe and why?

•  In what ways are you content in Jesus and what he's done in your life? How might that inform your desire for a different picture of your life?

MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 9

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

Week 9 

Exodus 20:16

“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor”

INTRODUCTION

Have you ever been put on the spot and, in fear, told a lie? Maybe you wanted to save face in front of your friend's or avoid rejection from your spouse.

Common phrases for bearing false witness include “tell a white lie,” “fudge the numbers,” “stretch the truth,”  or “leave out some facts.”  Whatever we call it, whatever the severity of the lie, to bear false witness is to lie about the God we represent.

Christians are representatives of Jesus who at every opportunity seek to show others the exact representation of the God who is truth (Heb. 1:3; Jn. 14:6).  believers speak the truth with their mouths, and they testify to that truth by living in response to the truth of who God is and what he has done for sinners. 

OBSERVATION

• What are some ways Christians commonly bear false witness to the gospel beyond just telling lies with their mouths?

•  What other Commandments are violated when we “bear false witness”?

INTERPRETATION

• Colossians 3:9-10 is a reminder of the 9th commandment. What additional information here gives fresh hope for believers today?

• Proverbs 6:16-23 tells us that lying is one of the things that the Lord hates, and then it goes on to tell us how to safeguard against this sin. How do we do that?

• According to Ephesians 4: 15, as Believers grow in Grace, how are they to speak to one another?

• Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. When Love is present in the life of a Believer, how does it respond to truth?

APPLICATION 

• In Psalm 5:8-10, the psalmist says that his enemies “flatter with their tongue”. Are you ever tempted to be less than truthful to flatter either yourself or someone else? Why? Have you considered that this is sin? How could you respond differently in those situations to remain truthful and loving?

• Jesus told his disciples that they would be set free by the truth (Jn. 8:31-32).  ask the Lord to reveal to you any lies you may believe or lies you have told.

•  If you have ever stressed about being able to determine a truth from a lie?  Don’t stress, praise God. God not only delights in the truth, he is truth. Read Psalm 51:5-7, and make it a prayer of your own.

• Perhaps you have been so hurt by lies that it is hard for you to trust your heavenly Father to be truthful to you always. Read 2 Samuel 22, a song of Praise written by David to God after God rescued him. David knew that “the word of the Lord proves true.”

MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 8

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

Week 8

“You should not steal…”

Introduction

When we have money in our wallets and the ability to purchase what we need for life by the work of our own hands, we may feel that we get a free ride when we hear the Lord say, “You shall not steal.” 

Yet, in these for compelling words, the Lord has more in mind than bank robbery avoidance. God's economy holds out a message of true Kingdom community, wooing us toward loving our neighbors, specifically as it applies to treasures. Enjoying the generosity of all we have received from Christ, we are compelled not to just ask, “Have  I obey this command?”  Instead, we are on a journey of wanting to become increasingly cheerful givers like him.

Observation 

• Who is giving this command? Look up Psalm 24:1 and Job 41:11 to discuss who the Lord is in regard to ownership, what that assumes of the receivers of this command, and why it matters.

• The Lord makes a statement in Exodus 22 prior to the Commandments. How does this retrospective verse give context to the particular sin stealing?

Interpretation

Read Deuteronomy 25: 13-16.

The word “steal” feels far away and easy to judge until it is specific. Make a list out loud together of modern-day forms of stealing and greed in business, homeownership, forms of monetary spending, home budgeting, personal spending, Church stewardship, and even spiritual gifts and talents. Which descriptions unveil More about the heart of a thief? 

Read Luke 12: 15-21.

• How would the character in this passage define the Lord's role in ownership, and how does that line up with Psalm 24: 1 and Job 41: 11 from earlier? How does this view of God affect behavior and choices?

• At what point in the story does the rich man become a fool? Why?

What does it mean to be rich towards God, and what would that look like in this story?

• Discuss “sins of omission” seen in this passage (not doing what the Holy Spirit has asked you to do).

• Read Ephesians 4: 28. In this verse, the Apostle Paul has more in mind than sin avoidance. What is the end result of no longer stealing and learning an honest work ethic?

Read the following passages as a group. Discuss what you learn about God and Satan. How did the actions of Christ matter in a discussion on thievery?

•  John 10:10-20

•  Acts 5:3

•  Romans 8:31-32

•  Ephesians 5:1 

Application

Near antonyms of “steal” presented in the Merriam-Webster's Dictionary are “buy, purchase; bestow, contribute, donate, give, hand over, present.” These words recall the victories and gifts of the gospel and show that Christ's work is the antonym of thievery in our lives. Christ bought our lives. He purchased our pardon. He bestowed on us a new identity. He contributes every blessing to our lives. He gives us all we need for life, especially himself. God handed over his son, though it was we who deserved death. He has presented us with full life.

God gives; Satan steals. God is generous with good blessings; Satan has nothing good to give, so he can only take. God is jealous for what is his; Satan is envious for what is not his. Jesus humbled himself and became nothing in order to win every blessing to pour over us richly. In our flesh, we resemble the nature of our enemy, living for ourselves and even taking what we have not been given. In Christ, we are transformed and can imitate his love for our neighbors with lavish generosity.

Read the questions below and then allow a moment for the Holy Spirit to prompt one question most relevant for each participant to answer.

• Do you struggle to act honestly and you're spending or giving at home, work, or church with credit card debt, generosity, living within your means, or tithing?

• Deuteronomy 25:13 asks the question, “What's in your bag?” Have you been hiding a purchase from your spouse by getting rid of the bag, hiding it in your closet for a future time, buying it with cash, or being dishonest by purchasing it in a “Superstore” under the guise of a grocery bill? Did you technically buy something honestly but in your heart you stole it because it was out of your budget, dishonest to your spouse, or birthed from covetousness?

• Acknowledging a sin in your heart is not full confession. Confession is agreeing with God, taking it to the Cross of Christ, being broken over it, having gratitude for the Gospel of Jesus, confessing verbally, and walking away from it in worship of God as your true treasure. What do you need to confess? Do you fear this? If so, read Ephesians 5:13 14. 

• If you are struggling with a desire for possessions, it may be helpful to answer this question: how does God view you as a believer? (See 1 John 2:1 and Eph. 2:4-10, Noting the Lord's attitude  demonstrated).  how could the “immeasurable riches of God's grace” battle your desire for riches, for your good and freedom?

MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 7

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

 Week 7

“You should not commit adultery”

Introduction

One of  the most infamous stories in Scripture regards adultery, where a powerful king of Israel, King David, seduces a beautiful woman, Bathsheba, while her husband is away at War (2 Sam. 11). In the opening few lines of text, we learn prior to their adultery King David was not supposed to be home in his  palace but out on the battlefield fighting on behalf of God's kingdom. One evening while out for a walk, King David spots Bathsheba bathing and sends a messenger to inquire about her. The king's servant reminds him that Bathsheba is the wife of Uriah the Hittite, one of his soldiers. Not dissuaded, David summons Bathsheba to his palace where they commit adultery, and she conceives.

Although King David was known to be a man after God's Own Heart (1 Samuel 13:13-14), at the time that he committed adultery with Bathsheba, God was no longer the object of David's greatest desire. His lusts were. He continued to pursue those lusts by inquiring about her, despite warnings, and looking at her merely as an object to be used to gratify his sinful desires. 

We may be tempted to ask ourselves, “What does this commandment have to do with me?” while soothing ourselves with affirmations that at least we haven't committed that sin. But Jesus, At The Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:27-28, brought radically new teaching that superseded the Old Testament law and Prophets for believers by saying, “But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Sexual sin, including lust, is a grievous affront to God and others, and the penalty is death. 

Observation 

Read Matthew 5:17-20; 27-30. 

• In this context, how familiar would the audience Jesus was teaching have been with Moses’ Law? How would Jesus’ words, effectually saying, “The Old Testament condemns adultery, but I say that lustful thoughts will condemn you to hell just the same,” have challenged their beliefs?

• In Matthew 5:19, Jesus tells the crowd, whoever “relaxes”, or sets aside, the law and teaches others to do the same will be called the least in the Kingdom. What is Jesus communicating about the standard of fulfilling the requirements of the law?

•  Matthew 5:28 used the word “already.” How does this word reveal one's standing according to the law?

•  According to Romans 8 35, what is the Hope for filling the requirements of the law?

Interpretation

Marriage is a sacred covenant promise that is so significant that God describes it as a reflection of the great mystery of Jesus and his bride, the church, for whom he died (Ephesians 5:32). Believers, by grace, are able to experience and give the world a picture of Christ's love and devotion through marriage.

• Christ’s commitment to his bride is so exhaustive that he loved us while we were yet unfaithful (Romans 5:8) and gave up his life that we may live (Ephesians 5:25). How does adultery misrepresent Jesus and his covenant with the church?

•  Jesus explicitly affirmed that marriage is a continuing, lasting commitment – “What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate” (Matthew 19:6; Mark 10:9). How does God's definition of marriage differ from that of our culture?

• The Bible defines adultery as lust or sex outside the bounds of a legal and monogamous marriage (porneia) and warns us against those who would call evil good (Isaiah 5:20). How is God's goodness revealed in his commandment prohibiting adultery?

•  God intends oneness in marriage (Genesis 2:24) and love in our relationships (Mark 12:28-31). What does Philippians 2:1 say is the source of our strength?

Application

Jesus' sermon is not merely given to display humanity's inability to obey God's law: it does that, but it also provokes our hearts to cry out to him for mercy. Believers who have been reconciled to God through Christ have constant cause for thanksgiving, as we have been given Christ perfect righteousness as our redemptive solution and can therefore boldly approach his throne!

• In what ways have you minimized lust in your heart, fantasies in your mind, and technical "lines “ you've crossed?

•  Thinking back to a time when you found yourself lusting after someone, whether an actual person or a fantasy, what was it that you were craving most?

•  How is comparing your spouse to another evidence of not treasuring God?

•  What lustful thoughts or adulterous actions do you need to confess to God? To others?

 For Further Study

 Read Psalm 51, a psalm of repentance, and 2nd Samuel 11:1-12:31.