Sermon Study Questions 5.25.25

My Story

1. Have you ever struggled to break a sinful habit and thought to yourself, "Am I really saved?"  If so, what do you think is at the root of your doubting of your genuine salvation?  If not, how would you help counsel someone who was struggling with a lack of assurance?

2. Fruit trees don't have to strain to bear fruit... it happens naturally?  Can you point to a time in your life where you've seen good fruit flow naturally from you?  What are some common hindrances to this sort of "production" in the Christian life?

Digging Deeper

1. Read Romans 7:7-13.  As you read through this passage, try to come up with a summary statement of how sin relates to the Law.

2. Read Romans 7:14-23.  Can you relate to Paul's struggle described here?  Do you think this passage is talking about a Christian or non-Christian?  How would you describe the battle of the flesh vs. the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer?

3. Read Romans 7:24-25.  How does Paul describe himself in verse 24?  Would you describe yourself in the same way?  How does verse 25 answer the problem presented through the rest of Romans 7?

Taking it Home

1. "Jesus didn't come to make bad people good.  He came to make dead people alive." -C.S. Lewis.  How would you describe what it means to be made alive in Christ?  How then would you relate that truth to living for Christ in light of indwelling sin in you?

2. Much of Romans 7 speaks to the fact that, even as mature Christians, our flesh is weak and we will still struggle with sin.  Oftentimes, naming our struggle, confessing it to the Lord, and pleading for mercy and help is the path to overcoming indwelling sin.  How are you going to pray this week?