Romans 8 | Week One: No Condemnation
No Condemnation
Begin by sharing prayer requests and praying for one another.
Read Romans 8:1-11 aloud as a group
Opening Question:
Share a time when someone paid a debt or penalty for you that you should have had to pay yourself. How did that make you feel?
Review the key takeaways from the sermon:
New Identity: For those in Christ, there is no condemnation - past, present, or future. Jesus has paid the full penalty for our sins, fulfilling the requirements of the law that we could never meet.
New Power: The Holy Spirit gives us new power to fight sin and obey God out of love, not obligation.
New Mind: Our mindset determines the direction of our lives - we can focus on the flesh or on the Spirit.
New Presence: The Holy Spirit takes up permanent residence in believers, transforming us from the inside out.
Discuss the following questions:
What does it mean to you personally that there is "no condemnation" for those in Christ? How might this truth change the way you view yourself and your relationship with God?
Pastor Travis talked about the "great exchange" that happened on the cross. How would you explain this concept to someone who is unfamiliar with Christianity?
How do you see the difference between obeying God out of obligation versus out of love in your own life? Can you share an example?
The sermon contrasted a mind set on the flesh versus a mind set on the Spirit. What are some practical ways we can set our minds on the things of the Spirit in our daily lives?
How does knowing that the Holy Spirit permanently resides in you impact your view of yourself and your daily choices?
Pastor Travis mentioned the peace that comes from knowing who you are and whose you are in Christ. How have you experienced this peace in your own life, especially during difficult times?
Decide which practical application your group will do this week
This week, whenever you feel condemned or guilty, intentionally remind yourself of the truth that there is no condemnation for those in Christ. Consider memorizing Romans 8:1.
Set aside time each day this week to intentionally focus your mind on the things of the Spirit through prayer, Bible reading, or worship.
Write down three ways you've seen the Holy Spirit working in your life recently. Share these with the group next time you meet to encourage one another.
Closing Prayer
Thank God for the freedom from condemnation we have in Christ. Ask for His help to live in that freedom and to be continually transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.