Romans 13:8-14

Grow

• Consider how Jesus’ life shows us how to truly love God and love our neighbor through this video.

• Explore what the Bible has to say about debt through this article.

Share

• Who are you “robbing” by withholding love? In what specific ways can you show that person you have their highest good in mind this week?

• Commit to memorizing Romans 13:14. Look for opportunities this week to encourage others toward confession and dependance on Christ.

Connect

• Why do we choose to remain in darkness, instead of stepping into the light? What in your life needs to be exposed to the light right now?

• Why do we keep our financial situation “off-limits” from our community? Take the step to be vulnerable with someone on this level and allow them to support you with love and Truth.

• Explore Romans 14:1-12 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

Psalm 46

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• For insights on how to approach and read the Psalms, watch this video.

• Read Psalm 46 each day this week. Allow the truths within it to become familiar so you can recall them throughout your day.

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• Today’s passage encourages us to not fear but instead trust God for who He is. Who, in your life, needs to hear this hopeful message this week?

• Write out a different verse from Psalm 46 each day this week. Ask God for opportunities to share the verse in words, actions, and prayers that day.

Connect

• What keeps us from believing God is always available? Why do we turn to fear instead?

• How can walking together in community help us embody these truths in our lives?

• Explore Romans 13:8-14 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

Romans 13:1-7

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• For context on the passage and a quick review of Romans, watch this video.

• Dig deeper into what it means to be “subject to governing authorities” in this article.

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• When has it been difficult to be “subject to governing authorities?” Share honestly with a fellow believer. Ask them to join you in praying for a heart change.

• Who may be watching to see how you “subject” yourself to authority? (Kids? Coworkers? Spouse?) What tangible ways can you best reflect Christ in word and action?

Connect

• Do you find this command to be difficult to consistently live out? Why do you think that is?

• Paul uses the language of “subject”, not of obeying. What is the difference? Why does it matter?

• Explore Psalm 46 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

Romans 12:9-21

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• For more on “genuine love” consider this article and the many scripture references within it.

• Copy verses 9-13 on a card or set it as your phone background. Read it regularly this week until you have it memorized.

Share

• Consider one way you could show love by honoring another person (verse 10). Then, plan to do it this week.

• Verses 14-21 command us to engage in counterintuitive ways with others. Choose one of these ways to love a difficult person this week.

Connect

• Paul calls the reader to “abhor what is evil.” What are some evils we don’t abhor or may even justify in every day life? Why?

• Why is it so hard to love our “enemies” (who hurt us, are different from us, etc). How can we help each other move towards Christ in this calling?

• Explore Romans 13:1-7 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.