Study Guide
Romans Part 5: The Faith Journey
What does God want from us? Our faith. But why is our faith so valuable to God? What does faith that holds on to God's promise despite the circumstances look like?
In this message you will be challenged and encouraged to:
- Reconsider how relatable unwavering faith is
- Resurrect prayers of God's promises
Newbreak’s Sermon Study Guide is an in-house resource that serves sermon-based Life Groups and/or individuals who want to reflect further on how the message contributes to their spiritual formation.
Icebreakers for Life Groups
- What is the most adventurous trip you have ever taken? What made it such a memorable journey?
- How would you define the idea of “faith” to someone that has never heard the term before?
Read Romans 4:1-15 (CSB)
God’s righteousness flows to us when we take God at His word.
Paul continues his courtroom conversation and now adds two witnesses. These two heroes of the faith would stand before the jury and remind them that they were justified by their faith and not by their works, their adherence to the law, their strengths, or their heritage. Both Abraham and David received the righteousness of God through their belief in Him and in His promises.
In verse 12, Paul highlights this truth about Abraham by stating that Abraham was declared righteous before being circumcised thus circumcision had no salvific value. Therefore, Abraham would be the father of both those circumcised and those uncircumcised by his faith. Faith is how we receive righteousness. It isn’t how we prove righteousness or earn righteousness.
Discussion Questions
- How does Abraham’s example in Romans 4:1-3 reshape your understanding of faith versus works for righteousness?
- How can we trust God for our right standing with Him instead of trying to prove ourselves by our actions?
- In what areas of your life do you find yourself trying to earn God’s approval, and how can you shift your mindset to trust in His righteousness through faith instead?
Read Romans 4:16-25 (CSB)
Faith holds on to the promises of God no matter the circumstances.
Paul highlights that Abraham did not waver in unbelief at God’s promise to give him an heir. He was fully convinced that God was able to do what He said (Romans 4:20-21). Even after waiting for 25 years, Abraham clung to the promises of God.
Abraham was first promised an heir at the age of 75 (Genesis 12:4), but his wife didn’t have their baby until he was 100 (Genesis 21:5). As the couple aged, the idea of having a child must have seemed increasingly unrealistic and impossible. Abraham knew that it would take divine intervention to turn the impossible into reality.
An essential part of our faith journey is learning to hold on to the promises of God no matter how difficult the circumstances or how long we must wait. Our faith in God’s power, love, and commitment to us helps to strengthen us as we wait on Him.
Discussion Questions
- How does this passage challenge you to trust in God’s timing and faithfulness in your life?
- How can the removal of comfort or being forced to wait deepen our dependence on God? How does it change our priorities?
- What steps can you take this week to grow in faith, especially in areas where you struggle with doubt?
When in Romans
In the middle of the first century, in the heart of the Roman empire was a group of house churches that believed that Jesus of Nazareth, crucified and risen from the dead, was the true Lord of the world! The Romans had to be some of the bravest, most tested Christ-followers as they were heavily persecuted by the rulers of the day. Therefore, Paul writes a letter to them, expressing what he wishes he could say in person to them. The contents of this letter are so revolutionary that for 2,000 years churches all around the globe read it, reflect on it, and apply these truths to their lives. Join us as we venture through Romans and see how the gospel's message gives us a new identity and a new way to live!