Romans 8 | Week Four

What to Know When You Don’t Know!

Begin by sharing prayer requests and praying for one another

Read Romans 8:26-30 aloud as a group

Key Takeaways

This message addresses the "known unknowns" in our lives—circumstances we experience but don't understand. Through Romans 8:26-30, we learn four essential truths that anchor us when life doesn't make sense:

1. We have strength unknown in our weakness

2. Bad things can be turned for good

3. Good things can never be lost

4. The best is yet to come

Discussion Questions:

1. Understanding Weakness: The passage says "the Spirit helps us in our weakness." Why do you think we resist acknowledging our weakness? How does recognizing our weakness actually position us for God's strength?

2. Wordless Groans: Have you ever experienced a situation where you literally didn't know what to pray? What comfort does it bring knowing the Holy Spirit intercedes for us with "wordless groans"?

3. The Prayer Partner Within: How does knowing that the Holy Spirit lives in you and prays according to God's will change your approach to difficult circumstances?

4. Clarifying the Promise: Randy emphasized what Romans 8:28 does NOT say. Discuss:

1. Why is it unhelpful to say "all things are good"?

2. What's the difference between God making everything good versus God working for good?

3. How is God's definition of "good" different from ours?

5. The Golden Chain: Walk through the five words: foreknew, predestined, called, justified, glorified. Which of these concepts brings you the most comfort? Which is hardest to understand?

6. Conformed to Christ's Image: The sermon explained that believers are predestined to be conformed to Christ's image. What does this look like practically in daily life? In what areas do you sense God "morphing" you?

7. Future Hope: How does the promise of future glorification help you endure present suffering or confusion?

8. The Tapestry Illustration: Reflect on the Vietnamese bag illustration—seeing only the messy back side now, but someday seeing the beautiful front. How does this image help you think about your current circumstances?

This Week’s Discipleship Rhythm: Prayer & Serve in Love

• Prayer Practice: When facing a confusing situation this week, consciously acknowledge your weakness and invite the Holy Spirit to pray for you.

• Serve in Love: Reach out to someone going through difficulty. Rather than offering quick answers or promises, simply acknowledge their pain and pray with them, trusting the Spirit to intercede.