Romans 8 | Week Three
From Groaning to Glory
Begin by sharing prayer requests and praying for one another
Opening Question: Share about a time when you had to endure something difficult to reach a goal you were excited about (moving, wedding planning, training for something, etc.). What kept you motivated?
Read Romans 8:18-25 aloud as a group
Key Takeaways
Future Glory (Romans 8:18). Our momentary afflictions cannot compare to the eternal glory awaiting those in Christ
Future Expectation (Romans 8:19-21). The entire world groans in anticipation of being liberated from decay
Forever Family (Romans 8:22-23). Christians live in an "already/not yet" reality—adopted but awaiting the fullness
Certain Hope (Romans 24-25). Hope is a confident expectation based on God's unchangeable promises
Discussion Questions
Why do you think we're often surprised when trouble comes, even though Jesus promised it would?
Discuss the contrast: "For Christians, this is as bad as it gets. For non-Christians, this is as good as it gets." How should this truth impact our evangelism and compassion?
How have you seen both beauty and brokenness in creation? What does this tell us about the effects of sin and the promise of restoration?
Travis mentioned that the Bible ends with "heaven and earth" together, not just "heaven." How does this change your understanding of eternity?
Paul says both creation and Christians "groan." What does your groaning look like in daily life? (Physical limitations, relational struggles, injustice, etc.)
The Holy Spirit is described as "firstfruits"—a deposit guaranteeing more to come. Where have you experienced the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, etc.) in your life? How does this give you confidence about the future?
What's the difference between worldly hope ("I hope the Vikings win") and biblical hope? Give examples from your own life.
“God cannot lie" (Numbers 23:19, Titus 1:2). How does God's unchangeable nature give you confidence when circumstances feel uncertain?
Pastor Travis mentioned people who wait patiently because they have loved ones who don't know Christ. Who in your life are you hoping will come to know Jesus? How can the group pray for them?
This Week’s Discipleship Rhythms: Daily Devotion & Share Your Story
Memorize Romans 8:18 - Write it on a card and review it daily, especially when facing difficulty
Share the Hope - Identify one person in your life who doesn't know Jesus and pray daily for an opportunity to share about future glory