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?