Sermon Study Questions 7.6.25
My Story
1. From the time we are little kids, we realize that life isn't always fair. Is there a specific time or period of time in your life where you experienced that life was truly not fair?
2. How do you handle the passages of Scripture like Romans 9 which oftentimes are very difficult to understand? What sorts of things have you found helpful when dealing with complex theological issues?
Diving Deeper
1. Read Romans 9:1-5. How would you describe Paul's outlook on the Jewish people? Should we mirror his outlook today?
2. Read Romans 9:6-18. What does it mean that God loved Jacob but hated Esau? What does that verse teach us about God? How does it make you feel when you read Paul saying that salvation does not depend on human will or exertion?
3. Read Romans 9:19-33. What are "vessels of wrath," and how do they fit into the doctrine of God's love? How does Paul call people to believe in the Gospel throughout Romans 9?
Taking it Home
1. Paul's heart broke for the Jewish people who rejected God. Does your heart break in the same way for Jews today? If so, what are we to do about that? If not, why not? How should studying a passage like this motivate us to share the Gospel with all?
2. The doctrine of God's sovereignty is all over this chapter. The truth is that God is in control even when we do not understand. What things that are going on in your life right now must you give up control to Him and trust Him completely with?