Connect Is there anything (other than Jesus) that you’re tempted to rely on for your standing before God?
What are the rhythms of your life that remind you that it is only because of the Gospel that we are set right.
Warm-Up
- What’s the most creative excuse you’ve ever heard someone use to get out of trouble?
- Why do people naturally compare themselves to others?
Read Romans 3:21-25
- Why are the words "but now" so important? What changes because of them?
- What does righteousness “apart from the law” mean, and why would this have been shocking to religious people?
- Why is it difficult for people to accept the universality of sin today?
- In what ways do people try to justify themselves before God or others apart from Christ?
- Why do people often struggle to truly believe grace is free?
- What is the difference between knowing facts about the gospel and personally trusting in Christ?
- How does understanding redemption in Christ deepen your appreciation of the cross?
Read Romans 3:25-26
- How does the cross demonstrate both God's justice and his love at the same time?
- Why could God not simply ignore sin without compromising his justice?
- What does Jesus' sacrifice reveal about the seriousness of sin?
- How does the cross answer the question, "Does God really care about evil and suffering?"
- How would you respond to someone who says the cross is unnecessary or outdated?
- How should the reality of Christ taking our punishment shape our worship and daily lives?
Read Romans 3:27-31
- What kinds of spiritual pride can Christians display today?
- If salvation is by faith alone, why does genuine faith still produce obedience and changed living?
- How does the gospel create unity between people from different backgrounds, cultures, and histories?
Apply How will your understanding of God’s grace shape your interactions with others this week?
